A Music for All Affiliate Regional Music Festival, presented by Yamaha
TBA
Paul Shaghoian Concert Hall
Clovis North Educational Center
The purpose of the San Joaquin Valley Concert Band Invitational is to provide a first class performance and educational experience for groups across the Western United States.
SJVCBI provides only the finest educators, conductors, composers, and performers as adjudicators to ensure every participant receives an enriching, valuable, and inspiring festival experience.
Welcome to the 16th Annual
San Joaquin Valley
Concert Band Invitational
&
The Paul Shaghoian Concert Hall
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Corrine Folmer, Ed. D. - CUSD Superintendent
Norm Anderson - CUSD Deputy Superintendent
Marc Hammack, Ed. D. - CUSD Associate Superintendent
Darin Tockey - Clovis North Area Superintendent
Geoffery Dean - CUSD Visual and Performing Arts Coordinator
Joshua Shapiro, Ed. D. - Principal CNEC
Jonathan Bowns - Deputy Principal CNEC
Alicynne Chaney - Deputy Principal CNEC
???????? - Learning Director CNEC
Heather Bishop - Performing Arts Department Chair
David Lesser - Director of Bands CNEC
David Gabrielson - Assistant Director of Bands & Percussion CNEC
Jose L. Vargas - Assistant Director of Bands CNEC
Erik Dewhirst - Jazz Band Director CNEC
Key Poulan - Director of Orchestras CNEC
Jim Rogers - Program Assistant / Performance Coach CNEC
Robin Wilson - Booster President CNEC
Vince Keenan - Director of Performing Arts Center
Genevieve Barnes - Cluster Secretary CNEC
?????? - Plant Operations CNEC
Scott Cassagrande - Educational Consultant, Music for All
Randy Buller - Photographer
Edgar Velasquez - Photographer
Welcome to the Clovis North Educational Center and Performing Arts Center! We are delighted to welcome the premier San Joaquin Valley Concert Band Invitational and to open our doors to some of the most talented musicians in our region. Music holds a vital place in today’s educational landscape, fostering critical thinking, communication, and teamwork.
In the words of our district's founder, Dr. Floyd Buchanan, "it is people, not programs," and "if you want to have great programs, you have to surround them with great people." Our talented music directors and staff are passionate individuals dedicated to providing top-notch educational experiences for our students. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the students who have committed themselves to excellence in mind, body, and spirit—your dedication to music-making is truly inspiring.
Lastly, we must acknowledge the unwavering support of our musicians' parents. Your commitment to upholding high standards while showering your children with love is deeply appreciated. Every parent's time and effort in ensuring the success of the band program is truly appreciated.
Now, it's time for the music! We invite you to immerse yourselves in the wonderful sounds and atmosphere of this event. Enjoy!
Sincerely,
​
Joshua Shapiro, Ed.D.
Principal
Clovis North Educational Center
Performance Schedule
16th Annual
Session #1
​
​​9:00am - Granite Ridge
Intermediate School
Symphonic Band
Jose Vargas, Conductor
9:30am - Wawona
K-8 School
Concert Band
Christopher Clark, Conductor
10:00am - Kastner
Intermediate School
Symphonic Band
Grace Sledd, Conductor
​​​
10:30am - Alta Sierra
Intermediate School
Symphonic Band
Steve Charnow, Conductor
​​​​
11:00am - Amador Valley
High School
Wind Ensemble II
Jonathan Grantham, Conductor
​​​
11:40am - Clovis
High School
Symphonic Winds
Alec Rodriguez, Conductor
​​​
12:10pm - Clark
Intermediate School
Symphonic Band
Chris Watson, Conductor
​​
12:40pm - Amador Valley
High School
Wind Ensemble I
Jonathan Grantham, Conductor
​
2:00pm - Session #1 Recognition Ceremony
Session #2
​​​
2:30pm - Clovis
High School
Wind Ensemble
Esmeralda Lozano, Conductor
​
​3:10pm - Buchanan
High School
Symphonic Band
Joey Neuenshwander, Conductor
​​
3:50pm - James C. Enochs
High School
Wind Ensemble
Rogelio Garibay Ochoa, Conductor
​​
4:30pm - Buchanan
High School
Wind Symphony
John Lack, Conductor
​​
5:10pm - Clovis East
High School
Symphonic Winds
Tim Childs, Conductor
​​
5:50pm - Washington Union
High School
Wind Ensemble
Robert Madrid, Conductor
​​
​7:00pm - Session #2 Recognition Ceremony​
​​​​
8:00pm
Festival Gala Concert
​Clovis North Educational Center
Wind Ensemble
~ Col. Jason K. Fettig ~ Dr. Bradley Genevro ~
~ Dr. Albert Nguyen ~ David Lesser ~
~ Darcy Vogt-Williams ~
Nathan Graybeal - Alto Saxophone
​​​​​
California State University, Fresno
Wind Orchestra
Dr. Gary P. Gilroy, Conductor
Our Adjudicators
Nicholas Williams
Nicholas Williams
NICHOLAS ENRICO WILLIAMS is a Professor of Music and serves as the Director of Bands at the University of Georgia, where he coordinates one of the country’s largest and most comprehensive university band programs, conducts the University of Georgia Wind Ensemble, and oversees the graduate wind band conducting area. Prior to his time in Athens, he was the Director of Wind Bands at the University of Melbourne Conservatorium of Music (Melbourne, Australia).
Before venturing to Australia, Dr. Williams flourished for sixteen years as the Assistant Director of Wind Studies, the Conductor of the Wind Ensemble, Brass Band, and Concert Band, as well as the Director of Athletic Bands at the University of North Texas. For a decade, he was the Conductor of the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra Wind Symphony and continues to be a frequent guest conductor of the Dallas Winds (formerly Dallas Wind Symphony), one of America’s few professional civic wind bands.
Professor Williams earned the Bachelor of Music (music education), MM (performance-conducting), and DMA (conducting) degrees from the University of North Texas.
Professor Williams has been a guest conductor with the Opole (Poland) Philharmonic Orchestra; the United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own”; United States Navy Band; United States Army Field Band; United States Air Force Band; Royal Australian Defence Force Bands; World Youth Wind Symphony at the Interlochen Arts Camp; Dallas Winds; Lone Star Wind Orchestra; at the annual Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago, Illinois; the College Band Directors National Association national and regional conferences; the Texas Bandmasters Association Convention; and the Texas Music Educators Association Annual Clinic/Convention in San Antonio, Texas.
Dr. Williams is active in Australia, Canada, Europe, Southeast Asia, and the United States as a conductor, clinician, adjudicator, consultant, and arranger; his arrangements and transcriptions for wind band, percussion ensembles, drum corps, and school pageantry ensembles are performed by outstanding organizations throughout the world. A member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMYs), he is a sought-after recording session producer, associate producer, editor, and conductor, having been involved with numerous CDs and DVDs on the Klavier, Mark Records, and GIA labels, as well as UNT and UGA projects, including the 2024 release of “Never a Reason to Stop” by the University of Georgia Wind Ensemble, and the 2019 release of “FIESTAS” by the University of North Texas Wind Ensemble.
In addition to his work in the recording arts, he has written several conductor study guides published in the multivolume series of Teaching Music Through Performance in Band. He was a primary consultant of the book Women of Influence in Contemporary Music and is an honorary member of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity for women.
His professional affiliations include the Georgia Music Educators Association, Australian Band and Orchestra Directors Association, Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, College Band Directors National Association, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, and Phi Beta Mu, an international bandmasters fraternity.
Granite Ridge
Intermediate School
Symphonic Band
Jose Vargas, Conductor
Novena
James Swearingen b. 1947
Appalachian Morning
Robert Sheldon b. 1954
Alligator Alley
Michael Daugherty b. 1954
Jose Vargas is an Assistant Band Director at Clovis North Educational Center where he directs two Granite Ridge Intermediate School Bands, the Clovis North Concert Band and assists with the high school Wind Ensemble, color guards, and the Bronco Marching Band. Mr. Vargas has also served as the interim conductor of the CSU, Fresno Symphonic Band for the 2013-2014 school year. He is Past President of the Fresno-Madera Counties Music Educator’s Association.
In 2019, the Granite Ridge Symphonic Band performed as the featured middle school ensemble for the California All State Music Educators Conference. Mr. Vargas was named the 2019 Middle School Specialist Educator of the Year from the California Music Educators Association.
Prior to working at Clovis North Educational Center, Mr. Vargas was the Band Director at Fresno High School where he started a competitive Winter Guard, rejuvenated the Jazz Band, created a Percussion Ensemble, re-established the parent booster club, obtained private lessons for all his band students, and greatly improved the Concert Band. Mr. Vargas took his Percussion Ensemble and Concert Band to festivals where they received Superior ratings.
Mr. Vargas earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music from La Sierra University in 2007 and his Masters in Music in Instrumental Conducting from California State University, Fresno in 2010. He has studied conducting with Dr. Ken Narducci and Dr. Gary P. Gilroy.
Wawona
K-8 School
Concert Band
Christopher Clark, Conductor
Windsor Overture
Anne McGinty b. 1945
Morning Mist
Kurtis Bertauch b. 2001
Imperium
Michael Sweeney b. 1952
Battlestar
Chris M. Bernotas b. 1969
Mr. Clark is originally from Savannah, GA. He is a graduate of Savannah State University where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance with a concentration in piano studies. Mr. Clark is also a graduate of Armstrong Atlantic State University where he completed his music education studies. Mr. Clark recently earned his master’s degree in Orchestral Conducting at California State University, Fresno under the instruction of Dr. Thomas Loewenheim, Professor of Conducting and Cello Studies.
​
Mr. Clark studied piano under the late Dr. Christine Oliver from the age of nine to his sophomore year as an undergraduate. He also studied violin under Mr. Bing Lee and Mr. Thomas Kotias, concert master of the Savannah Symphony at that time, and currently studies violin with Dr. Limor Toren-Immerman, violin professor at California State University, Fresno.
​
Mr. Clark is now in his eleventh year in music education and has been the Director of Instrumental Music at Wawona K-8 School for each of those years. Mr. Clark’s duties as the Director of Instrumental Music at Wawona K-8 School include his work with the Concert Band, Marching Band, Drum Line/Winter Percussion, Symphonic Orchestra, Guitar Studies and Piano Studies. Mr. Clark is committed to a high level of musical excellence with the program.
Kastner
Intermediate School
Symphonic Band
Grace Sledd, Conductor
Flight of the Thunderbird
Richard Saucedo b. 1957
As the Moon Whipsers
Benjamin Yeo b. 1985
The Legend of the Lamb
JaRod Hall b. 1991
Grace Sledd proudly serves as the Director of Instrumental Music at Kastner Intermediate School in Fresno, California. She is in her 4th year of teaching and is the lead at her site, overseeing the program of over 220 students involved in Jazz, Band, Orchestra, Color Guard, and Percussion.
​
Alta Sierra
Intermediate School
Symphonic Band
Steve Charnow, Conductor
Panther In the Sky
James Swearingen b. 1947
Where Words End
Randall D. Standridge b. 1976
Prelude and Pursuit
Michael Sweeney b. 1952
Steve Charnow is currently in his 28th year as a teacher in Clovis Unified, all as the Director of Bands at Alta Sierra Intermediate School. He directs the school’s Symphonic Band, Concert Band, and Intermediate Bands, as well as assisting with the Buchanan High School Band program and the Buchanan Area elementary programs.
Prior to his position at Alta Sierra, he served as Director of Bands at Hoover High School in Fresno. Mr. Charnow received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education and Master of Arts degree in Instrumental Conducting from California State University, Fresno. ​Mr. Charnow has been an active member of several professional organizations, serving as the Band Representative and the Secretary for the Fresno-Madera Counties Music Educators Association, and Band Manager for the CBDA All-State Bands.
He is currently a member of FMCMEA, CMEA, CBDA and MENC. ​Over the course of the years he's been at Alta Sierra, Mr. Charnow has served as the guest conductor for the All-County Intermediate School Honor Bands for the Fresno-Madera Counties Music Educators Association, the Tulare-Kings Music Educators Association, and the Bakersfield City School District. In 2004, Mr. Charnow was honored as a “Teacher of the Year” finalist by the California League of Middle Schools.
​
Amador Valley
High School
Wind Ensemble II
Jonathan Grantham, Conductor
Oh, Henry!
Ryan Nowlin b. 1978
Give Us This Day
Short Symphony for Wind Ensemble
David Maslanka (1943-2017)
I. Moderately Slow
II. Very Fast
Jonathan Grantham, director of bands at Amador Valley High School in Pleasanton, California, leads a band program of 300 students involved in five concert ensembles, three jazz bands, a competitive marching band, various chamber ensembles, winter percussion, and two winter guards.
​
In his twenty-three years at Amador Valley the band program has grown to triple in size and the ensembles have earned consistent superior ratings and high honors.
​
Mr. Grantham is active as an adjudicator, clinician, and guest conductor. He received his bachelor's degree in music education/trombone performance from Central Michigan University, graduating magna cum laude, and earned his master’s degree in conducting at the American Band College of Sam Houston State University, graduating magna cum laude.
​
Jonathan maintains an active music education blog and enjoys mentoring new teachers. He resides in Martinez, California with his partner Ryan.
Clovis
High School
Symphonic Winds
Alec Rodriquez, Conductor
Skydive
Chris Bernotas b. 1969
Songs of Old Kentucky
Brant Karrick b. 1960
1. John Riley (with Wayfaring Stranger)
2. Barn Dance (Sourwood Mountain, Frog Went-a-Courting, Loving Hannah)
The Cave You Fear
Michael Markowski b. 1986
Alec Rodriguez is the Associate Director of Instrumental Music at Clovis High School, where he directs the Symphonic Band, String Orchestra, and percussion program while overseeing transportation and facility management. His ensembles have consistently received Superior ratings at CMEA festivals. A dedicated educator and conductor, he is committed to fostering musical excellence and inclusivity in music education.
Alec earned his Master’s in Conducting from California State University, Fresno, studying under Dr. Gary P. Gilroy and Steven McKeithen, graduating with a 4.0 while serving as a Graduate Assistant. He is also the Front Ensemble Coordinator for Blue Devils B Drum & Bugle Corps and a consultant for Red Wave Indoor Percussion.
Passionate about expanding wind band repertoire, Alec advocates for diverse voices, particularly LGBTQIA+ representation. He is an active adjudicator and clinician, shaping the next generation of musicians.
Clark
Intermediate School Symphonic Band
Chris Watson, Conductor
Choose Joy
Randall Standridge b. 1976
Benediction
John Stevens b. 1951
Hopak!
William Owens b. 1963
Songs of Old Kentucky
Brant Karrick b. 1960
1. John Riley (with Wayfaring Stranger)
2. Barn Dance (Sourwood Mountain, Frog Went-a-Courting, Loving Hannah)
Mr. Chris Watson is the Director of Bands at Clark Intermediate School in Clovis, where he teaches Marching Band, Concert Band, and Percussion. In addition, he oversees winter pageantry programs. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education and his teaching credential from CSU, Fresno before he started his teaching career in 2010.
Mr. Watson continues to uphold a high standard of excellence for all students in the Clark band program. He works to create a culture that fosters lifelong learners and a love for music. In addition, Mr. Watson is an active member in his community as a Trombone player, and he currently performs with the Clovis Wind Symphony. He also serves as a musician at his local church in Fresno. Chris's wife Rachael Watson is also a music educator and they have two children, Daphne and Owen
Amador Valley
High School
Wind Ensemble I
Jonathan Grantham, Conductor
March from Symphonic Metamorphosis
Paul Hindemith (1895-1963)
Transcribed by Keith Wilson
Prelude & Fugue in Eb Major
JS Bach (1685-1750)
Transcribed by Lloyd Conley
The Frozen Cathedral
John Mackey b. 1973
Jonathan Grantham, director of bands at Amador Valley High School in Pleasanton, California, leads a band program of 300 students involved in five concert ensembles, three jazz bands, a competitive marching band, various chamber ensembles, winter percussion, and two winter guards.
​
In his twenty-three years at Amador Valley the band program has grown to triple in size and the ensembles have earned consistent superior ratings and high honors.
​
Mr. Grantham is active as an adjudicator, clinician, and guest conductor. He received his bachelor's degree in music education/trombone performance from Central Michigan University, graduating magna cum laude, and earned his master’s degree in conducting at the American Band College of Sam Houston State University, graduating magna cum laude.
​
Jonathan maintains an active music education blog and enjoys mentoring new teachers. He resides in Martinez, California with his partner Ryan.
Clovis
High School
Wind Ensemble
Esmeralda Lozano, Conductor
Gavorkna Fanfare
Jack Stamp b. 1954
Shenandoah
Omar Thomas b. 1984
Steadfast Leadership
Dwayne S. Milburn b. 1963
Danzon No. 2
Arturo Marquez b. 1950
Transcribed for symphonic Band by Oliver Nickel b. 1973
Mrs. Esmeralda Rocha Lozano is the Director of the Instrumental Music Program at Clovis High School. She holds a B.A. in Music Education and an M.A. in Music Performance from California State University, Fresno. A dedicated educator since 2000, she fosters a welcoming and supportive environment where students thrive. She recently completed the Bridges to Leadership PASC Program, further strengthening her skills in equity-driven leadership and school administration.
Under her direction, the Clovis High ensembles have earned top honors at state and national events. She has served on multiple music education boards and has been recognized with numerous awards. She is passionate about student success and mentors educators across the district and state. Beyond her career, she cherishes her role as a wife to Benjamin Lozano and mother to their three children, Evelyn, and twin boys, Benjamin and Michael.
Buchanan
High School
Symphonic Band
Joey Neuenshwander, Conductor
Reverberations
Brian Balmages b. 1975
I Am
Andrew Boysen Jr. b. 1968
When Angels Weep
David Shaffer b. 1953
Joey Neuenschwander grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Master's Degree in the Arts of Teaching from San Diego Christian College.
Mr. Neu has been teaching for 9 years with 8 of those years being in Clovis Unified. When he is not teaching, Mr. Neu loves spending time with his wife and 3 sons, (and has a baby girl on the way). His passions include music, his family, and developing a deep relationship with Jesus Christ.
James C. Enochs
High School
Wind Ensemble
Rogelio Garibay Ochoa, Conductor
American Hymning Suite
Dwayne S. Milburn b. 1963
I. Prelude on "Wonderous Love"
II. Ballad on "Balm in Gilead"
III. Scherzo on "Nettleton"
IV. March on "Wilson"
Sheltering Sky
John Mackey b.1973
Khan
Julie Giroux b. 1961
Rogelio Garibay Ochoa is the Director of Bands at James Enochs High School in Modesto, CA. Rogelio received his Bachelor of Music degree from CSU Stanislaus in 2012.
Rogelio likes to involve himself in local music and performing arts advocacy groups, such as CVGPA, CCWE, and SCMEA to ensure that young musicians and performers have a place in which they can sharpen their skills and share their talents with a wider audience.
He hopes to continue creating safe and inclusive settings in which his students feel comfortable to learn about music and performing arts while also empowering them to make good choices for their future.
Buchanan
High School
Wind Symphony
John Lack, Conductor
Illumination
David Maslanka (1943-2017)
Fields of Gold
Julie Giroux b. 1961
With Heart and Voice
David Gillingham b. 1947
John Lack is currently Director of Instrumental Music at the Buchanan Educational Center in Clovis, California where he oversees a team of five directors and 475 students involved in band, colorguard, jazz, orchestra, and percussion at Buchanan High School and Alta Sierra Intermediate. His responsibilities include directing the Buchanan High School Marching Band, Wind Symphony, Chamber Orchestra, String Orchestra, and Symphony Orchestra.
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The Buchanan programs are known for excellence and consistently achieve superior ratings at festival. The Buchanan Marching Band has been Bands of America Regional finalist multiple times, the Chamber Orchestra is an invited ensemble at the 2023 Music For All National Festival, and the Wind Symphony was an invited ensemble at the 2024 CMEA State Band & Orchestra festival.
Clovis East
High School
Symphonic Winds
Tim Childs, Conductor
Diamond Tide I & II
Viet Cuong b. 1990
Salvation is Created
Pavel Tschesnokoff (1877-1944)
Arranged by Bruce Houseknecht
Rev
Randall Standridge b. 1976
Tim Childs serves as the Associate Director of Bands at Clovis East High School in Clovis, CA, where he has quickly established himself as an integral part of the program’s success. Recently appointed to this role, he has already left a significant mark, during his inaugural year as Associate Director of Bands, he guided the Clovis East Symphonic Winds to outstanding success, earning multiple superior ratings throughout the 2024 festival season. In addition, he assisted the Clovis East Wind Ensemble in their prestigious performance at the California All-State Music Educators Conference in January 2025. Showcasing his multifaceted musicianship, he took the stage as both a guest conductor and featured saxophone soloist. Following this, the Clovis East Bands will be having their debut performance at Carnegie Hall in April of 2025.
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An accomplished saxophonist and passionate advocate for expanding the classical saxophone repertoire, Tim is the Alto Chair of The Elysium Quartet, a distinguished ensemble known for its innovative interpretations and artistic excellence. As a locally acclaimed performer, he continues to push the boundaries of saxophone music canon.
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Tim is a graduate from California State University Fresno and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education (22’). In addition, he earned his Master of Arts degree in Instrumental Conducting (24’) under the same tutelege of Dr. Gary P. Gilroy and Professor Steve McKeithen at California State University Fresno.
Washington Union
High School
Wind Ensemble
Robert Madrid, Conductor
Clouds That Sail in Heaven
Todd Stalter b. 1966
Rocketship
Kevin Day b. 1996
Ancient Flower
Yukiko Nishimura b. 1967
Ayo
Ketahj Copley b. 1998
Robert Madrid serves as Director of Bands at Washington Union High School and Music Education Director for the Washington Unified School District. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Fresno State University and a Master of Music degree from the American Band College. A recipient of the Outstanding Band Director Award from the Northern California Band Association, Mr. Madrid has also conducted the Bakersfield City School District Honor Band and recently received the Washington Unified Bright Spot award for his dedication to students.
With 18 years of teaching experience, he regularly adjudicates for California Music Educators Association and the Northern California Band Association. His ensembles consistently achieve Unanimous Superior ratings at CMEA festivals, and his parade bands are top contenders at NCBA competitions.
Clovis North Educational Center
Wind Ensemble
Directed by David Lesser
​
Danza De Los Duendes (1997)
Nancy Gailbraith b.1951
Guest Conductor, Dr. Bradley Genevro
Director of Bands, Oklahoma State University
To Hope (2024)
Aaron Perrine b. 1979
~ Consortium Premiere ~
Guest Conductor, Ms. Darcy Vogt-Williams
Director of Bands, Stiles Middle School, Leander Texas
Introduction and Variations on The Carnival of Venice (1986, 2005)
Jules Demersseman (1833-1866)
Arr. Herbert L. Clark and Mark Rogers
Guest Conductor, Dr. Albert Nguyen
Director of Bands, University of Memphis
Nathan Graybeal – Alto Saxophone
Shades of Grace (2025)
James Miley b. 1967
~ World Premiere ~
David Lesser, Conductor
Aegean Festival Overture(1967/1970)
Adreas Makris (1930-2005)
Arr. Maj. Albert Bader (1924-2019)
Guest Conductor, Col. Jason K. Fettig
Director of Bands, University of Michigan
​
David Lesser
David Lesser has been the Director of Bands at the Clovis North Educational Center in Fresno, California since opening in 2007. He started his 24th year of teaching in the fall of 2024. He administers all aspects of CNEC Instrumental Music grades 7-12, conducts the Wind Ensemble, and directs the Bronco Marching Band and Color Guard. Mr. Lesser is the Secondary Instrumental Resource Teacher for the CUSD Visual and Performing Arts Department. Prior to the opening of Clovis North, Mr. Lesser held Director positions at Clovis West High School from 2001-2006.
His Bands have performed at numerous prestigious events including:
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71st Annual Midwest Clinic
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Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
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Music for All National Concert Band Festival
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California All State Music Educators Conference
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California Music Educators Association State Band and Orchestra Festival
The Clovis North Marching Band was the Western Band Association class or grand champion in 2010, 2011, 2013, 2019, 2021 & 2024. The Clovis North Wind Ensemble has been the Demonstration Ensemble for the California All State Music Educators Conference Conductor Symposium in 2017, 18, 19, 20, 22, & 23. They have also been the demonstration ensemble for clinics at the Midwest Clinic (Travis Cross) and CASMEC (Robert Sheldon)
Mr. Lesser was honored in 2020 by the John Philip Sousa Foundation as a Legion of Honor Laureate. In 2006 Lesser was named one of the “50 Directors Who Make a Difference” by SBO magazine. He was the Fresno Madera Counties Music Educator Association Jazz Educator of the Year in 2005. David served as an Associate Director of the Music for All National Honor Band in the Rose Parade in 2017, 2022 and will once again in 2026. He is an adjudicator for Bands of America as well as other marching, concert, and jazz band festivals, guest conductor for honor bands, and presenter at educational clinics across the United States.
David has served in numerous leadership capacities for, NAfME, The Midwest Clinic, WBA, FMCMEA, CMEA Central Section, and the San Joaquin Valley Color Guard and Percussion Review. He founded the San Joaquin Valley Concert Band Invitational, a MFA Regional Festival, celebrating its 15th year in March 2025.
Throughout his career he has championed new composers by commissioning 13 original works for Wind Band and Jazz Ensemble. The 14th commission will be premiered during the 2024/25 school year by composer James Miley for Wind Ensemble.
Mr. Lesser has been married 23 years to his beautiful wife, Carol Lesser, who is a Registered Dietitian and dedicated mother. They have two beautiful children, Sarah who is a fashion merchandising major and song writer, attending CSU Long Beach and Justin who is an Eagle Scout, Drum Major of the Bronco Marching Band, principal clarinet of the CN Wind Ensemble, and a member of the Concord Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps.
Mr. Lesser would like to give special thanks to the colleagues he works with daily, Mr. David Gabrielson, Mr. Jose Vargas, Mr. Shawn Glyde, Mr. Erik Dewhirst, Mr. Key Poulan, Mr. John Arevalo, and Mr. Jim Rogers for their leadership, collaboration, and hard work in creating a high standard throughout the entire Clovis North Educational Center Instrumental Music Department.
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David Lesser
Clovis North Educational Center
Wind Ensemble Members
Flute
Ariella Taylor-Zhang
Vivaan Nagappala
Michelle Affleck
Ericka Velasquez
Callie McClain
Oboe
Luke Hartman
Clarinet
Justin Lesser
Jaibir Gill
Inviana Zhu
Kristine Hwang
Bryce Armstrong
Yuvraj Bains
William Strait
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Bass Clarinet
Dhaniel Bautista
Camila Fernandez
Contrabass Clarinet
Jackson Dhindsa
Bassoon
Daniella Diaz
Alto Saxophone
Alex Fisher
Hunter Hatfield
Tenor Saxophone
Luke Noordmans
Baritone Sax
Davin Whitley
Trumpet
William Gabrielson
Dathan Hartman
Connor Levy
Luca Pilosi
Sofia Chaudhari
Isaiah Lavata
Albert Li
French Horn
Baylin Lamee
Emily Kojekian
Kevin Fontanilla
Anahit Krdikashyan
Trombone
Nathan Hazelrigg
Mason Hernandez
Moon Hoevertsz
Bass Trombone
Ayden Locke
Euphonium
Saraya Overton
Kevin Chen
Tuba
Charlie Toy
Austin Gilliatt
Aaron Bains
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Piano
Daniel Senzaki
Double Bass
Andy Fisher
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Percussion
Logan Klassen
Avery Marino
Chris Guzman
Emmanuel Sagrado
Daniel Senzaki
Andrew Stockton
Jaxon Wilson
Kaitlyn Gerner
Caden Van Orden
Austin Loveland
California State University, Fresno
Wind Orchestra
Dr. Gary P. Gilroy, Conductor
Millennium Canons
Kevin Puts b.1972
When the Earth Stands Still
Don Macdonald b. 1966
Arranged by MJ Wamhoff b. 1961
Motu
Christopher Buchanan b.1984
To the Bells of the Berlin Cathedral
Julie Giroux b.1961
Joyce’s 71st New York Regiment
T.R Boyer (1858-1936)
Pulsing Onward
James David b. 1978
I. Pacific Coast Canons
II. Sierra Sarabande
III. Golden Gates Toccata
?????
Wind Orchestra Personnel
Past SJVCBI Adjudicators
2025
Col. Jason K. Fettig
Director of University Bands, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
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Dr. Bradley Genevro
​Director of Bands, Professor of Conducting and Associate Director of the Greenwood School of Music at Oklahoma State University​
​​
Dr. Albert Nguyen
Director of the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music and Director of Bands, University of Memphis
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Darcy Vogt-Williams
​Head Band Director, Stiles Middle School​
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Nathan "Saxologic" Graybeal
Alto Saxophone Soloist/Clinician
2024
Melissa Gustafson-Hinds
Director of Bands, O’Fallon Township High School
Robert Tyrome Herrings, III
Artie Henry Middle School
Mr. David Starnes
Director of Orchestras, Kennesaw Mountain High School, Retired
Commander Charles S. White
Executive Officer, United States Navy Band
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Musician 1st Class John Armstrong
Trumpet Soloist, United States Navy Band
2023
Colonel Michael Colburn
Commander United States "President's Own" Marine Band, Retired
Mr. John Miller
Director of Bands, American Fork High School, Retired
Mr. Daniel Morrison
Former Director of Bands, Ronald Regan High School
Mr. Richard Saucedo
Director of Bands, Carmel High School, Retired
2022
Dr. Travis Cross
Director of Bands, University California Los Angeles
Dr. Gary Hill
Director of Bands Emeritus, Arizona State University
Mr. Richard Saucedo
Director of Bands, Carmel High School, Retired
Dr. David Vickerman
Director of Bands, San Jose State University
2021 - Festival not held - COVID 19
2020 - Festival not held - COVID 19
2019
Mrs. Cheryl Floyd
Director of Bands, Hill Country Middle School, Retired
Mr. Richard Floyd
Texas State Director of Music Emeritus, Retired
Dr. Lawrence R. Sutherland
Director of Bands Emeritus, California State University Fresno
Mr. David Vandewalker
Coordinate of Music and Performing Arts, Fulton County Schools
Ms. Angelica Nuby
Flute, professor, Delta College, CSU Stanislaus, Applied Faculty, CNEC
2018
Mr. Jerell Horton
Director of Bands, Vestavia Hills High School
Mr. James Keene
Director of Bands Emeritus, University of Illinois, Champaign
Dr. Timothy Rhea
Director of Bands, Texas A&M University
Mr. Frank Troyka
Director of Bands, Berkner High School, Retired
Mr. David Lesser
Principal Horn, The Dallas Winds
2017
Mr. Greg Bimm
Director of Bands, Marian Catholic High School, Retired
Dr. Peter Boonshaft
Director of Bands, Hofstra University
Dr. Rodney Dorsey
Director of Bands, Florida State University
Dr. Albert Nguyen
Director of Bands, University of Memphis
2016
Dr. Steve Davis
Director of Bands, University Missouri, Kansas City
Mr. Bobby Lambert
Director of Bands, Wando High School
Dr. Kevin Sedatole
Director of Bands, Michigan State University
Mr. David Starnes
Director of Orchestras, Kennesaw Mountain High School, Retired
2015
Colonel Lowell E. Graham
Director of Orchestras, University Texas El Paso
Mr. Robert Ponto
Dean of Admissions School of Music, Univerity of Oregon, Retired
Mr. Jay Webb
Director of Bands, Avon High School, Retired
Dr. Nicholas Williams
Director of Bands, University of Georgia
2014
Mr. Ramiro Barrera
Director of Bands, James Logan High School
Colonel Arnald Gabriel
Commander Emeritus of the United States Air Force Band, Retired
Dr. John Locke
Director of Bands, University North Carolina Greensboro, Retired
Mr. Alfred Watkins
Director of Bands, Lassiter High School, Retired
2013
Dr. Travis Cross
Conductor of Wind Ensemble, University California Los Angeles
Dr. Thomas Lee
Director of Bands Emeritus, University California Los Angeles
Mr. Gary Markham
Music Supervisor, Cobb County Schools
Mr. Patrick Sheridan
Jupiter Performing Artist
2012
Mr. Greg Bimm
Director of Bands, Marion Catholic High School, Retired
Dr. Andrew Boysen Jr.
Director of Bands, University of New Hampshire
Dr. Eric Hammer
Director of Bands Emeritus, University of the Pacific
Mr. Don Jaramillo
Director of Bands, Emeritus, Etiwanda High School
2011
Dr. Gary P. Gilroy
Director of Bands, California State University, Fresno
Dr. Timothy Mahr
Director of Bands, St. Olaf College, Retired
Mr. Richard Saucedo
Director of Bands, Carmel High School, Retired
Mr. Tim Smith
Director of Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra, Retired
Mr. Jeffrey Strong
Trumpet, Los Angeles Philharmonic
2010
Mr. Larry Gookin
Director of Bands, Central Washington University, Retired
Dr. Edward Harris
Director of Bands, San Jose State University, Retired
Mr. David Starnes
Director of Orchestras, Kennesaw Mountain High School, Retired
Dr. Lawrence Sutherland
Director of Bands Emeritus, California State University Fresno
2009
Dr. John Bell, Director of Bands
Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville, Retired
Mr. John Carnahan
Director of Bands, Bob Cole Conservatory of Music, CSU Long Beach, Retired
Dr. Abel Ramirez
Assistant Professor of Music, Del Mar College
Mr. M.J. Wamhoff
Director of Bands, San Joaquin Delta College
