University of Missouri’s Dr. Amy M. Knopps Joins Jupiter Band Instruments As Endorsed Artist and Educator
Mt. Juliet, TN, May 2, 2025 … Dr. Amy M. Knopps, Associate Director of Bands and Director of Athletic Bands at the University of Missouri, has been named a new artist-educator partner by Jupiter Band Instruments. Dr. Knopps, renowned for her leadership of the highly successful Marching Mizzou, is deeply committed to providing students with the tools and experiences that foster both musical growth and personal achievement.
At Mizzou, Dr. Knopps oversees Marching Mizzou, Mini Mizzou, and the Symphonic Band, and teaches courses in the University of Missouri’s School of Music. Under her guidance, Marching Mizzou has grown significantly, from 245 to 350 members since 2017. The group has performed in major events such as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the 2024 St. Patrick’s Festival Parade in Dublin, Ireland, where they earned the prestigious title of “Best Overall Band.” In addition, Marching Mizzou is scheduled to participate in London Band Week in 2026.
A passionate educator and accomplished conductor, Dr. Knopps has made history in the collegiate marching arts as the first woman to serve as Associate Director of Bands and Director of Athletic Bands at Eastern Michigan University. She also holds leadership positions in national organizations, including serving as the Chair of the CBDNA Athletic Bands Committee, the first woman in this role.
Dr. Knopps praises the instruments from Jupiter, emphasizing their role in shaping high-performing ensembles like Marching Mizzou.
“As an educator and conductor in the collegiate marching arts, I place great value on instruments that support not only musical excellence but also a meaningful and rewarding experience for student performers,” Dr. Knopps shares. “At Mizzou, we rely on Jupiter instruments to meet the intense physical and artistic demands of our nationally recognized ensembles. Their exceptional durability, consistency, and rich sound quality are essential to our success across a wide range of high-profile performances and events.”
Dr. Knopps holds a DMA from the University of Georgia, an MM from the University of Kansas, and a BS Ed. from the University of Missouri. She has been recognized with several honors, including the William T. Kemper Fellowship for Teaching Excellence and multiple alumni awards from Mizzou.
She joins Jupiter’s elite roster of educators, artists, and musicians as a powerful force in the Marching Band community.
To learn more about Dr. Amy M Knopps, please visit: https://portal.jupitermusic.us/amy-knopps.
