Edward F. Girling of Carthage was recently named assistant director of bands at East Central Community College in Decatur, announced ECCC President Dr. Phil A. Sutphin.

Girling, who begins his new duties on Aug. 2, 2010, brings 28 years of experience as a band director and percussion instructor to the ECCC Band Program, led by Thomas W. Carson.

Girling most recently served as Forest High School band director, a position held since 2004. Honors received during his tenure at FHS include Wal-Mart’s “Teacher of the Year” award in 2006.  

He also led high school band programs at Scott Central (1995-2004), where he received STAR Teacher  honors in 1998; Stringer (1994-95), Neshoba Central (1991-94), Manchester Academy (1988-1991), Cleveland (1987- 88), North Sunflower Academy in Drew (1985-87) and Yazoo City (1982-86). 

Girling has served as clinic and contest judge and as a band clinician and guest conductor. In addition, he has experience in organizing and administering clinics and contests. He is also a music arranger and composer and has served as a percussionist for various music groups.

 He is a former president of the East Central Mississippi Band Directors’ Association district and the Mississippi Private School Association. He is a longtime member of the Mississippi Bandmasters Association.

His community interests include serving two years as concert director for the Scott County Honor Band, which received superior ratings in concert and sight reading. He has also served as a director of several musicals in addition to performing in numerous theatrical productions.

He is a member of Carthage Presbyterian Church, where he serves as deacon, education director and Vacation Bible School coordinator.

A graduate of Pass Christian High School, Girling holds bachelor and master’s degrees in music education from Delta State University in Cleveland.

He is married to the former Karen Stevenson of Cleveland. They have a daughter, Anna, a sophomore at Carthage High School.