The Jones College marching and pep band, also known as the “Typhoon,” has had great success over the years. This fall, under the new direction of Tamiko Bridges, this tradition continues.
The Typhoon is the heart and soul of Jones College, giving life to football games, small events, basketball games and so much more. This year’s band numbers 110 students who play instruments from drums to tuba.
Director Bridges, from the small town of Waynesboro, graduated from Quitman High School in 1994, then from Mississippi State University. Bridges worked as band director at several schools before she landed the job at Laurel School District.
“My entire existence as an educator has been one I had to work for,” said Bridges. “And without it, I wouldn’t be who I am today.”
The 2025-2026 Typhoon season is named Earth, Wind and Fire. Kyle Matthees is the brass instructor for the Typhoon, and Jared Potter is the percussion instructor who also does the drill. Bridges, Matthees and Potter are all serving in their first year at Jones.
This year’s performance features the Typhoon, Color Guard and Touch of Gold in their ensemble. The Typhoon has three drum majors, Elisa Cook, Laney Ingram and Chaz Welborn.
“We have so many different ideas, different people and staff,” said Elisa Cook. “That can be challenging, but it is also really exciting.”
Bridges said that she has always been a passionate educator, and that as she went from directing high school to college, she focused on the Lord. When she was chosen as the 25th director of the Typhoon, she felt honored and wanted to minister to her students.
Bridges’ vision for the Typhoon extends far beyond the football field. She wants her students to leave with not only musical excellence but also discipline, confidence and a sense of family. She often reminds them that every rehearsal, every note and every performance is a chance to leave a legacy, and that spirit of pride and perseverance can be felt in every beat the Typhoon plays.
“I am humbled and honored to be apart of such a great team that inspires students,” said Bridges.
The Typhoon band performs at each home and away game for the football team. They can be seen on Oct. 9 when the Bobcats play Hinds in Ellisville at 7 p.m.
Emma Claire Lowe
