Dr. Kelly R. Taylor, DME

Education & Academic Background

Dr. Kelly R. Taylor holds a Doctorate in Music Education from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, where his research focused on Rural Music Education—a field he is deeply passionate about.
He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Augsburg College and a Master’s degree in Education from Concordia University.
In addition, Dr. Taylor holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mortuary Science from the University of Minnesota and is a licensed mortician in the state of Minnesota.

Teaching & Professional Experience

With years of experience as a music educator, Dr. Taylor has taught in a variety of school districts and educational settings across Minnesota. His expertise spans:

• Directing middle school and high school band programs
• Leading jazz ensembles, percussion instruction, and marching bands
• Designing drill and consulting for marching band and winter drumline programs

Since 2018, Dr. Taylor has served in the Litchfield School District, where he has directed middle school bands, jazz ensembles, percussion groups, and the Marching Dragons high school marching band as drill designer, assistant, and co-director.

Leadership & Professional Involvement

Dr. Taylor is an active leader in the music education community. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Minnesota Music Educators Association (MMEA) and has previously held the roles of 2nd Vice President and President of the Minnesota Percussion Association Board of Directors.

He is also a member of several professional organizations, including:

• National Federation of Music Education (NfAME)
• Minnesota Music Educators Association (MMEA)
• Minnesota Band Directors Association (MBDA)
• National Rural Educators Association (NREA)
• Percussive Arts Society (PAS)