Marcus Carter currently works as an Office Manager at the Andrews Department of Music. After an undoubtedly challenging two decades of life in the military where he faced many dangers, he now enjoys connecting with faculty and students over music. From being in multiple rock bands to having studied music education at Andrews, he has had a long interest in music. His dedication to students and passion for music remains a large inspiration for AU students and staff.
Where does your passion for music come from?
I have no idea. It just happened. Neither my parents nor my siblings have any interest in music.
Did you always plan to pursue music in your life?
I took an early interest in music. My voice changed early (I was 11 years old) so I became the only Bass in the 5th/6th grade choir of 1973. Something led me to form a Christian rock band in 1976 (before Christian rock was cool) and we went semi-professional from 1980-1986. After 22 years in the military, I made my living as a professional musician in a classic rock band from 2006-2018.
What do you plan to do with your music major in the future?
I had planned on teaching music, but my plans changed when I was hired as the Office Manager for the Andrews Department of Music.
Why did you decide to come to Andrews?
When I retired, I had some G.I. Bill money that I hadn’t used yet, so I came here to get a degree in Music Education because Andrews has a reputation (even among secular circles) as having both an outstanding music program and an outstanding education program. Also, I wanted to attend a Christian university.
What was your military experience like, and were there any chances to play music while in the military?
As you would expect, there were some challenges. I spent a lot of time away from home and missed a lot of birthdays and such, but thank God my wife and kids were very supportive and knew that what I was doing was important. I was involved in two different wars and was deployed to hostile fire zones for probably 25% of my career. Of my 22 years in active military service, I spent four years on the Army wrestling team and four years directing the Infantry Chorus at Fort Benning, Georgia.
What was your favorite part of being a music major at Andrews?
Getting to know the people (both students and faculty) was my favorite part. This is why, when I was offered the job at the Music Department, I didn’t hesitate at all. I love the people here and consider them part of my extended family. Many of the current students actually call me Dad when they come to my office.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.