Taylor McManaway is a percussionist in the United States Marine Corps. He is currently serving as a Percussion Instructor at the Naval School of Music in Virginia Beach, Virginia. His responsibilities include teaching and preparing Marines and Sailors to execute their duties as a percussionist in the fleet.
Taylor was raised in Abilene, Texas. He began studying snare drum at age 10. In 2016, Taylor earned his undergraduate degree in Percussion Performance from Texas A&M University-Commerce. In 2017, Taylor enlisted in the Marine Corps and was subsequently stationed in San Diego, CA. As a Marine Musician, his duties include supporting military and civilian ceremonies, community relations events, and being a musical ambassador for the Marine Corps. Taylor has performed for millions of people through professional sporting events, hundreds of military and civilian ceremonies, and as a 3-time member of the Marine Corps All-Star Jazz Orchestra.
Taylor’s teachers include: Dr. Brian Zator (Texas A&M University-Commerce), Dan Florio (Dallas Symphony Orchestra), Mark Reilly (US Army Old Guard Drum and Fife Corps), Rodney Barreto (Chucho Valdes, Habana de Primera), Kent Hillman (Rebel Alliance Jazz Orchestra), and Carlos Botello (Genesis Drum and Bugle Corps