A Music for All Affiliate Regional Music Festival, presented by
Friday, March 20, 2026
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. - Clovis Unified School District Superintendent
Norm Anderson - Clovis Unified School District Deputy Superintendent
Marc Hammack, Ed. D. - Clovis Unified School District Associate Superintendent, School Leadership
Darin Tockey - Clovis Unified School District Assistant Superintendent, Clovis North Area
Geoffery Dean - Clovis Unified School District Visual and Performing Arts Director
Joshua Shapiro, Ed. D. - Principal, Clovis North High School
Jonathan Bowns - Deputy Principal, Clovis North High School
Alicynne Chaney - Deputy Principal, Clovis North High School
Andy Dominguez - Learning Director, Clovis North High School
Heather Bishop - Performing Arts Department Chair, Clovis North High School
David Lesser - Director of Bands, Clovis North Educational Center
David Gabrielson - Assistant Director of Bands & Percussion, Clovis North Educational Center
Jose L. Vargas - Assistant Director of Bands, Clovis North Educational Center
Erik Dewhirst - Jazz Band Director, Clovis North Educational Center
Key Poulan - Director of Orchestras, Clovis North Educational Center
Jim Rogers - Program Assistant / Performance Coach, Clovis North Educational Center
Robin Wilson - Booster President, Clovis North Educational Center
Vince Keenan - Director of Performing Arts Center, Clovis North Educational Center
Genevieve Barnes - Cluster Secretary, Clovis North High School
Vacha Vang - Plant Operations, Clovis North Educational Center
Scott Cassagrande - Educational Consultant, Music for All
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​​
​​9:00 am - Granite Ridge
Intermediate School
Symphonic Band
Jose Vargas, Conductor
9:30 am - Kastner
Intermediate School
Symphonic Band
Grace Sledd, Conductor
10:00 am - Clark
Intermediate School
Symphonic Band
Chris Watson, Conductor​
10:30 am - Wawona
K-8 School
Concert Band
Christopher Clark, Conductor​​
11:00 am - Clovis East
High School
Symphonic Winds
Tim Childs, Conductor
​​11:30 am - Clovis
High School
Symphonic Band
Cameron Baber, Conductor​
​12:10 pm - Clovis
High School
Wind Ensemble
Esmeralda Rocha-Lozano, Conductor
​​​
1:30pm - Session #1
Recognition Ceremony
​​
Session #2​
​​2:00 pm - Clovis West
High School
Symphonic Band
Zoe Cohen, Conductor​​​​
​​2:40 pm - Clovis East
High School
Wind Ensemble
Scott Downs, Conductor​
​3:20 pm - Kingsburg
High School
Wind Ensemble
Michael Schofield, Conductor
​
4:00 pm - Washington Union
High School
Wind Ensemble
Robert Madrid, Conductor
​4:40 pm - Merced
High School
Wind Ensemble
Ashley Shine-Dirlam, Conductor
​
5:20 pm - Clovis West
High School
Wind Ensemble
Zoe Cohen, Conductor
​​
6:45 pm - Session #2
Recognition Ceremony​​​​
7:30 pm
SJVCBI Gala Concert
​Clovis North Educational Center
Wind Ensemble
Darrin Davis, Rodney Dorsey, David Lesser,
Dominic Talanca, Nicholas Williams, Conductors
​
Amelia Smith - Clarinet, Guest Soloist
​
The Wind Symphony of Clovis
Gary Gilroy, Christine Keenan, Conductors​
Our Adjudicators
Darrin Davis
Darrin Davis serves as the Executive Director of Fine Arts for the Broken Arrow Public Schools and is the founder of Davis Signature Arts, LLC, a consulting and educational leadership firm dedicated to inspiring excellence in the performing arts. Through Davis Signature Arts, Mr. Davis provides professional consulting, pageantry design, leadership development, and educational clinics for music educators, students, and organizations across the United States. He is also a frequent guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator for festivals and competitions nationwide.
Mr. Davis has taught in the Broken Arrow Public Schools since 1993, previously serving as conductor of the nationally acclaimed Broken Arrow High School Wind Ensemble and Director of the Pride of Broken Arrow Marching Band. In his current role as Executive Director of Fine Arts, he leads a team of over 100 Fine Arts educators and more than 6,000 students engaged in band, choir, orchestra, theatre, debate, and visual arts programs district-wide.
Ensembles under Mr. Davis’ direction have earned national and international acclaim for their artistry and innovation, performing at the American Bandmasters Association Convention, the Midwest Clinic, Carnegie Hall, the Music for All National Concert Band Festival, and six times as the Oklahoma Music Educators Association Honor Band. His bands have also appeared in the Tournament of Roses Parade, earned the John Philip Sousa Foundation’s Sudler Shield, and are four-time Bands of America Grand National Champions.
A member of the American Bandmasters Association, Mr. Davis has received numerous honors, including Oklahoma Band Director of the Year, multiple National Band Association Citations of Excellence, the Tulsa Signature Symphony’s Signature Champion of Education, and recognition as Broken Arrow Citizen of the Year. In 2020, he was inducted into the Bands of America Hall of Fame, and he is also a member of the Oklahoma Bandmasters Association Hall of Fame and the Broken Arrow High School Great Graduates Hall of Fame.
Mr. Davis remains an active national clinician and adjudicator for Drum Corps International, Bands of America, and numerous state and regional organizations. He also serves on the Music for All Advisory Board and as a Juror for the Sousa Foundation’s Sudler Shield.
Mr. Davis earned a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Missouri Western State University and a Master of Music Education degree with a conducting emphasis from The University of Tulsa, and he continues to study with leading conductors through symposiums and professional seminars nationwide.
Darrin Davis
Rodney Dorsey
Rodney Dorsey
Rodney Dorsey is Professor of Music at the Florida State University College of Music where he conducts the FSU Wind Orchestra and guides the graduate wind conducting program.
Dr. Dorsey comes to FSU from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music where he conducted the IU Wind Ensemble and taught graduate conducting courses. Prior to his tenure at the Jacobs School, Dorsey served on the faculties of the University of Oregon, University of Michigan, DePaul University and Northwestern University. He also gained extensive experience teaching in the public schools of Florida and Georgia.
Dorsey studied conducting with Dr. Mallory Thompson, Mr. John P. Paynter, and Dr. James Croft. He was a clarinet student of Mr. Fred Ormand and Dr. Frank Kowalsky.
During his conducting career, he has led performances at several prominent events including the American Bandmasters Association Convention, College Band Directors National Conference North/Northwest Regional Conference, and the Bands of America National Festival. He is active as a guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator in the United States. International engagements include Hungary, Canada, and Bulgaria.
His commitment to community has been demonstrated by his participation on the board of directors for Music for All and the Midwest Clinic. He currently serves as the president of the Midwest Clinic. Other professional memberships include the College Band Directors National Association, National Association for Music Education, Florida Bandmasters Association, Kappa Kappa Psi, Tau Beta Sigma (honorary), Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated. Dorsey is also an elected member of the American Bandmasters Association. Most recently Dorsey was named a Yamaha Master Educator.
Dominic Talanca
Dr. Dominic Talanca is in his first year as Associate Professor of Music and Director of Bands at the University of Central Arkansas, where he oversees the UCA Bands program, conducts the Wind Ensemble, and teaches undergraduate conducting courses and graduate conducting lessons and wind literature. Prior to arriving in Arkansas, Dr. Talanca held a similar position for eight years at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. His conducting experience is extensive: he remains the conductor of the Wilmington Symphony Pops Orchestra, was artistic director of the Wilmington Symphonic Winds—an ensemble that performed twice at the North Carolina Music Educators Association Conference—and co-founded Southern Harmonie, a professional chamber ensemble of winds, percussion, and strings.
Dr. Talanca has guest conducted numerous ensembles, including a week-long residency with the Banda de Conciertos de San José in Costa Rica, and dozens of honor bands across the US (Boston University Tanglewood Institute) and internationally (AMIS HS European Honor Band, Germany). He holds a DMA in Wind Conducting from Northwestern University, studying with Mallory Thompson, and BME/MM degrees from the University of North Texas, studying with Eugene Migliaro Corporon. Prior to his graduate studies, Dr. Talanca taught middle school and high school for ten years in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and served as the Associate Director of Bands at Marcus High School in Flower Mound, Texas from 2006–2013.
Dr. Talanca is co-author of Musical Mastery, a prominent beginning band method used in over 150 school districts and adopted by several universities for methods classes, impacting over 100,000 students internationally. He is a 3-time contributor to the GIA Teaching Music Through Performance in Band series, has published articles in several state music journals and the WASBE Journal, and is a multiple-time presenter at The Midwest Clinic in Chicago.
Dominic Talanca
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
March to Concord
Ricky Kirby b. 1945
On The Kerry Shore
Jack Wild b. 1986
Ocean Blue
Adrian B. Sims b. 2000
Hands Across The Sea
John Phillip Sousa (1854-1932)
Arranged by Jerry Brubaker b. 1946
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.
Kastner
Intermediate School
Symphonic Band
Grace Sledd, Conductor
Halcyon Hearts
Katahj Copley b. 1998
Loch Lomond
Arranged by JaRod Hall b. 1991
Escape Velocity
Mark J Connor b. 1971
Grace Sledd proudly serves as the Director of Instrumental Music at Kastner Intermediate School and the Director of Jazz for the Clovis West Area in Fresno, California. Now in her fifth year of teaching, she leads a comprehensive program of more than 220 students across Jazz, Band, Orchestra, Percussion, and Color Guard, fostering a high-achieving and inclusive music environment.
Ms. Sledd holds 2 Bachelors of Music in Music Performance and Music Education from the California State University, Long Beach, where she was the top of her class and was awarded the “2021 Outstanding Student of the Year” Her Honors thesis, One Size Does Not Fit All, examined Universal Design for Learning in secondary music settings and synthesized 55 research-based strategies for classroom implementation. She will complete her Master of Music Education through the American Band College in the summer of 2026.
Actively involved in the Central Valley music community, Ms. Sledd has served in multiple leadership roles with the Fresno Madera County Music Educators Association, including Band Manager for the Junior High Honor Jazz Band and Junior High Honor Concert Band. In 2026, she also served as Assistant Band Manager for the CMEA Middle School Symphonic All-State Band. Additionally, she is a board member for La Sierra Creative Arts Camp, supporting the continued legacy of music educator Paul Shaghoian.
Clark
Intermediate School Symphonic Band
Chris Watson, Conductor
Flourishes!
William Owens b. 1963
Nexus
James Curnow b. 1943
Mountain Thyme
Samuel R. Hazo b. 1966
BlackStar Alpha
JaRod Hall b. 1991
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 safe space for all students and 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 Wind Symphony of Clovis. 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.
The Clark Intermediate Symphonic Band is an advanced ensemble with a mix of both 7th and 8th grade students. Many students also participate in the marching band and jazz band.
Mr. Watson strives to create a safe and collaborative environment with high standards for all students to grow.
The Symphonic Band consistently receives superior ratings at festivals and was selected to participate in the 2024 CMEA State Band and Orchestra Festival.
Wawona
K-8 School
Concert Band
Christopher Clark, Conductor
Windsor Overture
Anne McGinty b. 1945
Imperium
Michael Sweeney b. 1952
Morning Mist
Kurtis J. Bertauche b. 2001
Snakebite
Matt Conaway b. 1979
Mr. Christopher Clark is the director of instrumental music at Wawona K-8, where he conducts the string orchestra and symphonic band. Christopher also conducts the New Horizons Orchestra and has served as an on-call conductor for the Youth Orchestras of Fresno. Originally from Savannah, GA, he earned his B.A. in Piano Performance from Savannah State University. He continued his studies at Georgia Southern University, Armstrong, where he completed his K-12 Teaching Credential in music education.
He is also a graduate of California State University, Fresno, where he received his M.A. in Orchestral Conducting with distinction. Currently, Mr. Clark is pursuing a Doctorate in Music Education at Boston University.
​
Mr. Clark works for Fresno Unified School District, where he has built a top-tier music program recognized as one of the best in Fresno. Due to his numerous musical achievements, Christopher has received multiple honors within Fresno Unified. He is a two-time finalist for the “Excellence in Education Award” (2017 & 2024), was featured in “Faces of Fresno Unified” Magazine for highlighting the impact of music in developing the “total” person, and received the “Fresno Unified Highlight Award.”
“Music is, for me, like a beautiful mosaic which God has put together. He takes all the pieces in his hand, throws them into the world, and we have to recreate the picture from the pieces.” ― Jean Sibelius
The Wawona Concert Band is comprised of 7th and 8th-grade student musicians. The Wawona Concert Band has been active in the San Joaquin Concert Band Invitational for the past six years. Our concert band has also been featured in the Fresno Unified African American Celebration, as well as performed throughout the city of Fresno at several community events.
Clovis East
High School
Symphonic Winds
Tim Childs, Conductor
Big Top Melody Shop
Joshua Hobbs b. 1990
Uniquely You
Adrian B. Sims b. 2000
Level Up!
Chris Evan Hass b. 1993
III. Final Boss
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 and 2025 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 made their debut performance at Carnegie Hall in April of 2025.
In addition to his academic achievements, Tim Childs presented at the California All-State Music Educators Conference in January of 2026. His session, “Beyond the Middle: Redefining Intermediate Level Ensembles,” explored practical strategies for elevating the musical and educational experience of middle-level band —often labeled as “second” groups. Ultimately, the presentation advocated for a fundamental shift in perspective: that intermediate ensembles are not “less than,” but central to building sustainable, thriving music programs.
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’) at California State University Fresno.
The Clovis East Symphonic Winds, based at Clovis East High School in Clovis, California is composed of both intermediate and advanced high school musicians. As one of the school’s leading concert ensembles, it unites woodwind, brass, and percussion students at varying stages of musical development, fostering a culture where growth and excellence coexist. The Clovis East Symphonic Winds has consistently received Superior ratings at both state and local festivals throughout California’s Central Valley.
Building on its tradition of artistic growth and regional recognition, the Clovis East Symphonic Winds was also invited to serve as a collaborating ensemble in composer Chris Evan Hass’ newest concert band suite consortium, Level Up!, which premiered early in December of 2025, further affirming the group’s role in contributing to contemporary wind literature.
Clovis
High School
Symphonic Band
Cameron Baber, Conductor
Into The Clouds
Richard L. Saucedo b. 1957
Moonlit Dreams
Joshua V. Hinkel b. 1978
Thawing
Kazuki Shimoda b. 1992
Amparito Roca
Jaime Texidor (1884-1957)
arr. Gary Fagan
Cameron Baber serves as the Assistant Director of Instrumental Music at Clovis High School, where he directs multiple ensembles. He is committed to fostering musical excellence and an inclusive culture in music education. Born, raised, and now teaching in Clovis Unified, he is proud to give back to the community that shaped him. He previously taught at the elementary level and has instructed numerous ensembles throughout the Central Valley.
Mr. Baber has performed at the Midwest Clinic, CASMEC, Rose Parade, and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland. He received the Ritchie Clendenin Inspirational Musician Award at Fresno State for his performance with the Fresno State Wind Orchestra. He has also instructed the Fresno State Bulldog Marching Band, Red Wave Indoor, and performed with the Wind Symphony of Clovis.
Outside of teaching, he enjoys spending time with his family, two dogs, going to the movies, reading, and hiking.
The Clovis High School Symphonic Band provides students with a supportive environment to grow as musicians. Focused on developing skills and musical confidence, the ensemble explores a diverse repertoire that challenges and inspires its members.
The band consistently demonstrates a high level of performance, earning superior ratings at local and regional festivals, including CMEA, CUSD, and the San Joaquin Valley Concert Band Invitational. Rehearsals emphasize teamwork, leadership, and personal growth, helping students build a strong foundation for future musical experiences.
Beyond festivals, the ensemble shares its music with the school and broader community, celebrating each student’s progress and accomplishments. Over time, the Symphonic Band has become a respected part of Clovis High School’s music program, fostering curiosity, engagement, and a commitment to musical excellence.
Clovis
High School
Wind Ensemble
Esmeralda Rocha-Lozano, Conductor
First Suite in E Flat for Military Band
Gustav Holst (1874 - 1934)
Mvt. I. Chaconne
Mvt II. Intermesso
Mvt. III. March
Nimrod, from "Enigma Variations"
Edward Elgar (1857–1934)
Arranged by Alfred Reed (1921 - 2005)
Bayou Breakdown
Brant Karrick b. 1960
The National Emblem
Edwin Eugene Bagley (1857-1922)
Esmeralda Rocha Lozano is the Director of Instrumental Music at Clovis High School in Clovis, California, where she oversees a comprehensive program including band, orchestra, color guard, jazz, and percussion.
A proud alumna of California State University, Fresno, she is deeply committed to building programs rooted in excellence, joy, and community. Under her leadership, the Golden Cougar Marching Band & Color Guard has earned regional recognition and an invitation to perform in the 2027 Tournament of Roses Parade.
Mrs. Lozano is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where students feel seen, valued, and inspired to grow both musically and personally. She is an active presenter and mentor within the music education community and believes sustainable success comes from strong systems, collaboration, and heart-centered leadership. Above all, she treasures her roles as wife and mother of three incredible children.
The Clovis High School Band Program is a vibrant and inclusive community that fosters musical excellence, personal growth, and teamwork. With a long-standing tradition of excellence, the program includes Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Percussion Ensemble, and Color Guard.
The Wind Ensemble, our premier concert group, performs advanced repertoire and consistently earns high ratings at festivals. We emphasize music literacy, collaboration, and a growth mindset, striving to inspire students to reach their full potential. Our program proudly represents Clovis High at local, state, and national levels.
Clovis West
High School
Symphonic Band
Zoe Cohen, Conductor
Kentucky 1800
Clare Grundman 1913-1996
Adoration
Florence Price 1887-1953
Transcribed by Cheldon R. Williams
Fantasia
Katahj Copley b. 1998
Zoe P. Cohen is the Director of Wind Bands at Clovis West High School in Fresno, California. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and maintains teaching credentials in both Massachusetts and California. Her conducting experience includes work with the Smith College Wind Ensemble, Northampton High School, South Hadley High School and extensive leadership roles with the University of Massachusetts Minuteman Marching Band.
Cohen has been recognized for her excellence in musicianship and leadership with the Howard M. Lebow Memorial Scholarship, the 21st Century Leadership Award, the College of Humanities and Fine Arts Senior Leadership Award, and the Poulton Drum Major Scholarship. In addition to teaching, she is an active soprano with the Fresno Master Chorale and Coro Piccolo and remains committed to fostering a culture of excellence, leadership, and musical integrity within her programs.
Since its opening in 1976, Clovis West High School has been committed to providing and maintaining a quality music program. The Clovis West High School Instrumental Music Department offers Marching Band, Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Chamber Orchestra, String Orchestra, Jazz Band, Percussion Ensemble, Winter Percussion, Colorguard, & Winterguard.
The Clovis West High School Band has traveled throughout the United States and Canada performing at the Bands of America National Concert Band Festival in 1998 and 2010, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in (1989, 1995, 2000), Bands of America Grand Nationals in 2016, Disney World, the Fiesta Bowl, Hawaii, Washington D.C., Indianapolis, Vancouver, B.C., and the Pacific Northwest. Clovis West performing ensembles participate in various festivals throughout the country and have consistently been recognized for high achievement and excellence in performance.
The students that attend Clovis West High School come to us through Kastner Intermediate School. The success of the Clovis West Music program is also due to the excellent instruction our students receive from our band faculty, our many private teachers, and the support given by the parents and school administrators.
Clovis East
High School
Wind Ensemble
Scott Downs, Conductor
In Motion
Christopher Artau b. 2004
Xenia Sarda
Hardy Martens b. 1960
King Cotton
John Philip Sousa (1854-1932)
Scott Downs began his teaching career in 2018 at Clovis East High School and Reyburn Intermediate School, directing multiple concert ensembles and overseeing the marching band visual program. Under his leadership, the Reyburn Symphonic Band and Clovis East Symphonic Winds consistently earned Unanimous Superior ratings at State Festivals.
Appointed Director of the Clovis East Wind Ensemble and Marching Band in 2023, he helped lead the program to a historic 3rd-place finish at the Western Band Association Championships, the highest in school history, alongside colleagues Levi Dougherty and Timothy Childs. A former Euphonium and Trombone soloist with the Blue Devils "A" Drum and Bugle Corps (2012–2017), Mr. Downs holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Music Education from the University of the Pacific (Stockton, CA).
Mr. Downs continues to perform on the Euphonium with the Wind Symphony of Clovis. In his free time, he can be found in the mountains either on a Mountain Bike or Skis, or hanging out with his covey of quail.
The Clovis East Wind Ensemble is one of two distinguished performing wind band ensembles at our school, consisting of a talented group of intermediate and advanced musicians who play woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments.
This ensemble provides an opportunity for students to refine and expand their musical abilities, focusing on the development of crucial ensemble skills, in-depth musical concepts, and advanced technical proficiency on their respective instruments. Throughout the year, students in the Wind Ensemble ensemble have the privilege of participating in numerous performance opportunities, including our highly anticipated fall, winter, and spring concerts.
Additionally, the group performs at a variety of fundraising events, community gatherings, and special occasions, further showcasing their dedication and musical expertise. In the spring semester, the Wind Ensemble ensemble takes their talent beyond the school, participating in a range of local and state-level music contests and festivals. These events offer students the chance to compete and perform at a higher level, further enhancing their growth as musicians and contributing to their overall musical journey.
Kingsburg
High School
Wind Ensemble
Mike Schofield, Conductor
Mt. Everest
Rossano Galante b. 1967
Some Treasures Are Heavy With Human Tears
John Mackey b. 1973
Cajun Folk Songs
Mvmt I: La Belle et le Capitaine
Mvmt II: Belle
Frank Ticheli b. 1958
Men of Ohio
By Henry Filmore (1881-1956)
Arranged by Loras Schissel b. 1964
Mike Schofield is only the third Director of Bands at Kingsburg High School since 1961. He directs the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Marching Band and Jazz Band.
His ensembles have consistently earned top ratings at festivals and performed at many prestigious events such as the CMEA State Conference in Sacramento, CA, the CASMEC All State Conference, the Pacific Basin Music Festival and two Carnegie Hall appearances.
Mr. Schofield is a three-time recipient of the National Band Association's Citation of Excellence. As a composer, Mike has published several concert band and marching band pieces.
He studied conducting with Lawrence Sutherland, Gary P. Gilroy, Ray Cramer and Stephen Pratt. He studied trumpet with Ritchie Clendenin, Paul Shaghoian and Michael Caldwell. Mike maintains an active schedule as a clinician, guest conductor, performer and composer.
The Kingsburg High School Wind Ensemble is the premiere concert ensemble at Kingsburg High School. The KHS Wind Ensemble has received a Superior rating at every CMEA Large Group Festival since its creation in 2002. The Wind Ensemble has performed at many prestigious events including the CA All-State Music Conference (CASMEC) in 2019, the CMEA Sacramento Conference in 2008, Cargenie Hall in 2011 and 2018, and the Pacific Basin Music Festival in Honolulu, HI in 2014 and 2025.
Washington Union
High School
Wind Ensemble
Robert Madrid, Conductor
Henry Juarez, Conductor
Sunbloom
Gavin Lendt b. 1975
Thawing
Kazuki Shimoda b. 1992
Moonlit Dreams
Joshua V. Hinkle b. 1978
Steel
Randall Standridge b. 1976
Mr. Robert M. Madrid is the Band Director at Washington Union High School where he has been leading since 2017. Prior to his time at Washington Union he led the programs at Terronez Middle School and Edison High School. Robert Madrid is also the founder and conductor of the Easton Wind Ensemble.
Mr. Madrid graduated from Tokay High School, obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Fresno State and earned Master of Music degree from the American Band College of Sam Houston State University.
Mr. Madrid was awarded the Outstanding Young Band Director Award in 2015 and the Band Director of the year in 2025 from the Northern California Band Association. Mr. Madrid also was named a Washington Unified School District Bright Spot for his dedication to students and excellence in education and has served as conductor for the Bakersfield City School District Middle School Honor Band.
The Washington Union High School band has a long tradition of excellence through out Northern California in all areas of performance. Washington Union is located in the rural town of Easton just south west of Fresno. Our community and school district has a long history of their generous and enthusiastic support of this program.
Merced
High School
Wind Ensemble
Ashley Shine-Dirlam, Conductor
Salute to the Sultan
Karl King (1891-1971)
arranged by Gene Milford
One Thousand Cranes
Robert Sheldon b. 1954
Catalyst
Rob Romeyn b. 1961
Ashley Shine-Dirlam is Director of Bands at Merced High School. Mrs. Shine-Dirlam is a native of rural Merced County and is a graduate of Hilmar High School. Upon graduation, she earned her Bachelor’s of Music Education from CSU Stanislaus in 2013 and completed her Masters in School Administration in 2021.
In addition to teaching her program, Mrs. Shine-Dirlam has served as a band manager for CA All-State for several years, was the CBDA Ensemble Host, was Treasurer of CBDA, and is also the President for Merced/Mariposa Ca Music Educators Association (MMCMEA). Beyond her volunteer services, she continues to remain involved in her local community by judging during fall marching season, providing clinics for her colleagues, as well as guest conducting a variety of honor ensembles.
She is accompanied by her Assistant Director, David Clark, who will be conducting today.
Merced High School, home of the Merced Marching 100, has a long legacy of excellence and dedication spanning back to 1928.
The MM100 takes great pride in representing the city of Merced by collaborating and participating in a variety of community events while also maintaining a competitive edge in both the pageantry arts and concert/jazz festival circuits.
While offering a large majority of music courses such as Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Percussion and Guard pageantry, AP Theory and Piano, the Merced Music Department prides itself with developing young musicians into lifelong performers.
Clovis West
High School
Wind Ensemble
Zoe Cohen, Conductor
American Overture for Band
Joseph Willcox Jenkins
Sørgemarsj over Rikard Nordraak (Funeral March in Memory of Rikard Nordraak)
Edvard Grieg (1843-1907)
tr. Jan Eriksen ed. Frederick Fennell
ROMA
Valerie Coleman b. 1970
Zoe P. Cohen is the Director of Wind Bands at Clovis West High School in Fresno, California. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and maintains teaching credentials in both Massachusetts and California. Her conducting experience includes work with the Smith College Wind Ensemble, Northampton High School, South Hadley High School and extensive leadership roles with the University of Massachusetts Minuteman Marching Band.
Cohen has been recognized for her excellence in musicianship and leadership with the Howard M. Lebow Memorial Scholarship, the 21st Century Leadership Award, the College of Humanities and Fine Arts Senior Leadership Award, and the Poulton Drum Major Scholarship. In addition to teaching, she is an active soprano with the Fresno Master Chorale and Coro Piccolo and remains committed to fostering a culture of excellence, leadership, and musical integrity within her programs.
Since its opening in 1976, Clovis West High School has been committed to providing and maintaining a quality music program. The Clovis West High School Instrumental Music Department offers Marching Band, Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Chamber Orchestra, String Orchestra, Jazz Band, Percussion Ensemble, Winter Percussion, Colorguard, & Winterguard.
The Clovis West High School Band has traveled throughout the United States and Canada performing at the Bands of America National Concert Band Festival in 1998 and 2010, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in (1989, 1995, 2000), Bands of America Grand Nationals in 2016, Disney World, the Fiesta Bowl, Hawaii, Washington D.C., Indianapolis, Vancouver, B.C., and the Pacific Northwest.
Clovis West performing ensembles participate in various festivals throughout the country and have consistently been recognized for high achievement and excellence in performance. The students that attend Clovis West High School come to us through Kastner Intermediate School.
The success of the Clovis West Music program is also due to the excellent instruction our students receive from our band faculty, our many private teachers, and the support given by the parents and school administrators.
Clovis North High School
Wind Ensemble
Directed by David Lesser
Cool Cat (2023)
Adam Schoenberg b. 1980
Guest conductor, Darrin Davis
Executive Director of Fine Arts for the Broken Arrow Public Schools
Lyric for Strings (1946/2024)
George Walker (1922-2018) transcribed by Cheldon R. Williams b. 1982
Guest conductor, Dr. Rodney Dorsey
Professor of Music, Florida State University
Black Dog (2002)
Scott McAllister b. 1969
Dr. Amelia Smith, Clarinet
Lecturer Clarinet, Fresno State
Guest conductor, Dr. Dominic Talanca
Director of Bands, University of Central Arkansas
D’un Matin de Pritemps “Of A Spring Morning” (1917/2008)
Lili Boulanger (1893-1918) arranged by Francois Branciard b. 1979
Guest Conductor, Dr. Nicolas Enrico Williams
Director of Bands, University of Georgia
Four Scottish Dances (1957/1978)
Malcolm Arnold (1921-2006) arranged by John P. Paynter (1928-1996)
I. Pesante
II. Vivace
III. Allegretto
IV. Con Brio
David Lesser
David Lesser has served as Director of Bands at the Clovis North Educational Center in Fresno, California since its opening in 2007. Now in his 25th year of teaching, he oversees all aspects of the CNEC Instrumental Music program for grades 7–12, conducts the Wind Ensemble, and directs the Bronco Marching Band and Color Guard. He also serves as the Secondary Instrumental Resource Teacher for the CUSD Visual and Performing Arts Department. Prior to joining Clovis North, he held director positions at Clovis West High School from 2001–2006.
His ensembles have performed at major national events including the:
-
71st Annual Midwest Clinic
-
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
-
Music for All National Concert Band Festival
-
California All State Music Educators Conference
-
California Music Educators Association State Band and Orchestra Festival
The Clovis North Marching Band has earned multiple Western Band Association class and grand championships (2010, 2011, 2013, 2019, 2021, 2024). The Clovis North Wind Ensemble has served as a demonstration ensemble for the California All-State Music Educators Conference Conductor Symposium (2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023) They were a demonstration ensemble for clinics at the Midwest Clinic (Travis Cross) and CASMEC (Robert Sheldon), The Clovis North Winter Guard was a WGI 2025 Scholastic A Finalist at the WGI World Championships.
Mr. Lesser was recognized by the John Philip Sousa Foundation as a Legion of Honor Laureate in 2020. His additional honors include being named one of SBO Magazine’s “50 Directors Who Make a Difference” (2006) and FMCMEA Jazz Educator of the Year (2005). He has served as an Associate Director of the Music for All National Honor Band in the Rose Parade (2017, 2022, 2026) and is active nationally as an adjudicator, guest conductor, and clinician.
He has held leadership roles with NAfME, The Midwest Clinic, WBA, FMCMEA, CMEA Central Section, and the San Joaquin Valley Color Guard and Percussion Review. He is also the founder of the San Joaquin Valley Concert Band Invitational, an MFA Regional Festival now in its 16th year.
Throughout his career, Mr. Lesser has supported composers and new music by commissioning 15 original works for wind band and jazz ensemble.
He has been married for 24 years to his wife, Carol, a Registered Dietitian. They have two children: Sarah, a fashion merchandising major and songwriter at CSU Long Beach, and Justin, a mechanical engineering major at San Jose State University, member of the SJSU Wind Ensemble, and a Drum Major with 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.
David Lesser
Amelia Smith
Clarinet
Guest Soloist
Dr. Amelia Smith, a dedicated clarinet performer and educator, hails from a small town outside Minneapolis and has taught clarinet across the United States. She is currently the Clarinet Lecturer at the Fresno State School of Music and has previously taught at the University of Mississippi.
In addition to her teaching, Smith is an accomplished chamber and orchestral musician having performed throughout the United States and Europe. She has performed with the Fresno Philharmonic, Sequoia Symphony Orchestra, Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra, Memphis Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra Santa Monica, and in a masterclass with members of the Mozarteum Orchestra, performing the Mozart Clarinet Quintet. Her soloist appearances include invitations to perform the Mozart Clarinet Concerto with the Sinfonietta Orchestra of Memphis and the Copland Clarinet Concerto with musicians from USC's Thornton School of Music. Dr. Smith has also earned several competition placements, including first prize in the graduate division of the Schubert Club Scholarship Competition in St. Paul, MN.
Amelia teaches and performs in both Fresno and Los Angeles. In LA, she worked with Youth Orchestra Los Angeles (YOLA), an El Sistema-inspired program funded by the Los Angeles Philharmonic. As YOLA Inglewood’s first Clarinet Teaching Artist, she not only cultivated students' musical skills but also fostered a strong sense of community. An activist committed to social justice, Dr. Smith believes in the transformative power of music education at all levels. During summers, Amelia can often be found performing at the Northern Lights Music Festival in Hibbing, MN, and this summer will serve on faculty at the Fresno Summer Orchestra Academy and Montecito International Music Festival.
Dr. Smith holds degrees from the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University (BM), the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music at the University of Memphis (MM), and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities (DMA). Her former instructors include Howard Klug, Dr. Robyn Jones, Alexander Fiterstein, and Timothy Zavadil.
Clovis North High School
Wind Ensemble Members
Flute
Eleanor Huntley
Vivaan Nagappala
Callie McClain
Andrea Remulla
Amy Xue
Oboe
Luke Hartman
Ariana Quigley
Adria Paz
Clarinet
Inviana Zhu
Kristine Hwang
Yuvraj Bains
Bryce Armstrong
William Strait
Salvatore Bulcao
Vanessa Fu
Bass Clarinet
Dhaniel Bautista
Stella McClain
Contrabass Clarinet
Yahya Hussein
Bassoon
Daniella Diaz
Gus Alley
Contra Bassoon
Luz Campos-Melchor
Alto Saxophone
Alex Fisher
Hunter Hatfield
Tenor Saxophone
Luke Noordmans
Baritone Sax
Davin Whitley
Trumpet
William Gabrielson
Luca Pilosi
Sofia Chaudhari
Isaiah Lavata
Albert Li
French Horn
Anahit Krdikashyan
Kenneth Fontanilla
Teagen Locke
Olivia Hammer
Trombone
Nathan Hazelrigg
Lisa Sugimoto
Gabriel Allison
Moon Hoevertsz
Bass Trombone
Ayden Locke
Euphonium
Saraya Overton
Kevin Chen
Tuba
Aaron Bains
Quinten Escovedo
Ashley Thull
Double Bass
Andy Fisher
Percussion
Avery Marino
Chris Guzman
Jaxon Wilson
Benjamin Yau
John Kirkpatrick
Benjamin Lopez
Remington Escovedo
Hunter Saum
Alexander Serna
AJ Wright​
The Wind Symphony of Clovis
Gary Gilroy & Christine Keenan, Conductors
Dynamica
Jan Van der Roost b. 1956
Northwind March
W. Paris Chambers (1854-1913)
edited by John Bourgeois b. 1934
​
Roma
Valerie Coleman b. 1970
A California Gold Rush Trilogy
Gary P. Gilroy b. 1958
I. Westward Trek
II. Heartbreak In The Motherlode
III. Triumphant Celebration!
​​
The Wind Symphony of Clovis is a symphonic wind ensemble of professional level musicians committed to excellence in the performance of wind band music. The ensemble was founded in 2017 by conductors Gary P. Gilroy and Christine Keenan and rehearses and performs in the beautiful Paul Shaghoian Concert Hall in Fresno, California. In 2018, after only one year in existence, the WSC was selected to perform at The Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference in Chicago, Illinois. The WSC has also been a featured ensemble at the California All-State Music Education Conference in 2020 and the Lawrence R. Sutherland Wind Festival in 2018, 2022, and 2025.
Our Mission Statement:
​
• To provide a musical outlet for accomplished instrumentalists of Central California with the opportunity to perform challenging repertoire with other outstanding local musicians of a similar caliber.
• To provide our community with high-quality musical performances of the best of the wind band repertoire, including new compositions and time-honored classics.
• To be an example of outstanding musicianship for the students of our local school music programs and encourage continued music education beyond the high school and collegiate levels.
• To represent our community through music performances locally and throughout our state and nation.
Gary P. Gilroy
Gary P. Gilroy
Gary P. Gilroy is a Professor of Music Emeritus and Director of Bands Emeritus from California State University, Fresno. In 1993 he was appointed Associate Director of Bands and Director of the Bulldog Marching Band. After 13 years in this position and building one of the finest collegiate marching bands on the west coast, Dr. Gilroy became Director of Bands in 2006. Prior to his time at Fresno State, he served for a decade as Director of Bands at Fred C. Beyer High School in Modesto, California where his band was awarded several national honors as well as the International Sudler Shield Award from the John Philip Sousa Foundation. Gilroy also served as faculty at CSU, Stanislaus and graduate assistant at the University of Oregon in Eugene, Oregon where he completed his doctorate in 1995.
In March of 2014 Dr. Gilroy was voted into the membership of the prestigious American Bandmasters Association. He served on the board of California Band Directors Association (CBDA) for fourteen years and he is a Past President of that organization. In 2009 Dr. Gilroy was given the Distinguished Service Award and in 2015 the Don Schmeer Friend of Music award from CBDA. Gilroy is also a Past President of the Fresno Madera Counties Music Educators Association. In 2016 Dr. Gilroy was again honored with the CMEA John Swain/College/University Educator award from the California Music Educators Association. And in 2024 the California Band Directors Association presented him with the Dave Goedecke Lifetime Achievement Award. In November of 2025 the National Association for Music Education and Music For All awarded Dr. Gilroy with the George N. Parks Leadership Award. From 1999 to 2006 he served on the board of the National Band Association as a Member At Large and the Western Division Chairman.
In 2017 Dr. Gilroy was a co-founder of the Wind Symphony of Clovis, a group of semi-professional musicians from California. After being in existence for less than a year the band was accepted to perform at the 72nd Annual Midwest Clinic in Chicago, Illinois. Their December-2018 performance earned them an immediate standing ovation at the conclusion of the concert.Dr. Gilroy is in demand as a guest conductor of many honor bands throughout the United States. As an adjudicator and guest conductor he has served in 40 states, Canada, China and England. Dr. Gilroy has been the conductor for all state groups in Colorado, Iowa, Nevada and Oregon as well as the All-Northwest Wind Symphony (2017), the Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association High School Wind Symphony (2020), the California Band Directors Association (CBDA) All-State Junior High School Symphonic Band (2011) and the CBDA All-State High School Symphonic Band (2002) and Wind Symphony (2023).
An ASCAP Award-winning composer with more than 200 publications to his credit, Gilroy's music is published for concert band, marching band, and various ensembles through the Arrangers Publishing Company, BRS Music, Inc., C. Alan Publications, Daehn Publications, Gary P. Gilroy Publications, Kagarice Brass Editions, Matrix Publications, TRN Publications, Warner Brothers, Wingert-Jones, Inc., TrevCo Music Publishing and CPP/Belwin Mills. His compositions have been featured at the American Bandmasters Association Convention, the Bands of America National Concert Band Festival in Indianapolis, the Eastern Trombone Workshop in Washington, DC, the International Trombone Festival in New Orleans, and on many occasions at the International Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago. Additionally, Gilroy’s compositions have been performed by many regional and state honor bands throughout the United States. Dr. Gilroy served as the arranger/composer for the 2008 Olympic Orchestra in Beijing, China. He has been an ASCAP Composers Award recipient on numerous occasions.
Dr. Gilroy and his wife Dena have lived in Clovis, California since 1993. His daughter, Alexandra, has music degrees from UCLA and UNLV and is currently a music teacher in the Clovis (CA) Unified School District and his son, Nicholas, is a graduate of CSU, Long Beach and a music teacher for the Fresno Unified School District.
Christine Keenan
Christine Keenan, D.M.A, is the Director of Instrumental Music at Reedley College, where she conducts the Concert Band and Community Band and oversees the instrumental ensembles and lessons programs. She also teaches courses in music theory, conducting, and music education and coaches the Saxophone Quartet. In 2017, Dr. Keenan co-founded the Wind Symphony of Clovis, along with Dr. Gary P. Gilroy of Fresno State. Their aim was to offer a musical outlet for accomplished instrumentalists of Central California and provide them an opportunity to perform at a professional level. The ensemble was selected to perform at the prestigious Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference in Chicago in 2018, after only one year of existence, and was featured at the California All-State Music Education Conference in 2020.
Dr. Keenan is deeply involved in community music initiatives, dedicating significant time and effort to this field. In 2015, she founded Summer Band at the Shaghoian to give local student and community musicians the opportunity to make music over the summer in a new and exciting context. In the 11 years of the ensemble’s existence, it has grown to 125 musicians, ranging in age from 12 to over 90 years old. She helped to organize and direct the Fresno Pacific Community Music School, leading music majors in providing free lessons for local high school and middle school instrumental students who showed promise and could not afford them, as well as directing chamber ensembles and conducting the full student ensemble. She also helped create and lead the Reedley College Summer Music Camp, providing music instruction for elementary and middle school students and teaching opportunities for music majors through an applied learning grant and partnership with the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools.
During her 6 years on the executive board of the Fresno Madera County Music Educators Associate, Dr. Keenan spearheaded a project to commission local composers to create new intermediate honor band audition music and to have professional musicians create video tutorials of the music, which were provided to students at no cost. As the Band Representative for the Central Section of the California Music Educators Association, she developed a series of online professional development workshops for band directors across the Central Valley to be able to collaborate remotely. Dr. Keenan has taught music at all levels in schools throughout the Valley, including Sanger Academy, Hoover High School, Kastner Intermediate, and College of the Sequoias. She formerly served as the Director of Bands and Music Program Director at Fresno Pacific University and has taught advanced instrumental conducting at CSU, Fresno. She has served as a mentor, conference presenter, and collaborator with organizations that serve underrepresented groups, including Girls Who Conduct, And They Were Heard, and Tau Beta Sigma. She is in demand as a guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator throughout California and beyond.
Dr. Keenan earned her Bachelor of Arts in Music Education, summa cum laude, and Master of Arts in Instrumental Conducting, with distinction, at California State University, Fresno. As an undergraduate, she was a featured soloist in the annual Concerto Concert under the direction of Dr. Lawrence R. Sutherland. Later as a graduate conducting student, she was again featured on alto saxophone with the Fresno State Wind Orchestra as the winner of the Concerto Competition. She completed her D.M.A. in Music Education from Boston University. Her research is in the education and development of future music teachers.
Dr. Keenan lives in Clovis, California with her husband Vince, who is the technical director of the Clovis Performing Arts Center and stage manager for the Fresno Philharmonic Orchestra, and their two daughters, Vivian (13) and Roxanne (11).
Christine Keenan
Wind Symphony of Clovis
Personnel
Flute
Emily Archuleta*
Colleen Fernandez
Sandy Headrick
Arianna Knee
Julia Lucero
Kim Morita
Jazlyn Salgado
Becky Stinnett
Oboe
Sheryl Reimer*
Jeffrey Shen
Bassoon
Emily Prather
Ryan Ubhoff
Noah Vang
Clarinet
Juan Barrera-Rosas
Michael Coppedge
Zachary Curtis
Matthew Erickson
Joshua Gracia
Laura Hamill
Anne Hendrickson
Gail Inghram
Kevin Misakian
Amelia Smith
Gavyn Tapp
Katie Winter
Diego Zarate-White
Bass Clarinet
Raul Arredondo*
Jason Hilario
Contrabass Clarinet
Michele Falk Murray
Alto Saxophone
Bryan Chesi
Jordan De La Torre
Josh Locher*
Tenor Saxophone
Timothy Childs
Baritone Saxophone
Alan Moffett
​
Trumpet
Donald Barley
Evan Johnson
Dan Lindstrom
Jennifer Locher*
Dan Pena
Ryan Rogers
Fernando Romero
Mark Wamhoff
French Horn
Davian Barba
Allen Gallego
Richard Hembree
Barry Holm
Silvestre Vasquez
Elisha K. Wells*
​​Trombone
Erik Dewhirst
Matt Shaver
Chris Watson*
Russ Zokaites
Euphonium
Scott Downs
Jordan Ray*
​​
Tuba
Cody Forcier*
Misael Gutierrez
Austin Hilla
Daniel Larsen
​Percussion
Yasmin Brackens
Joe Cargill
Micah Davison
David Gabrielson *
Tony Gennaro
Tyler Golding
Esteban Oroz
Brandon Price
Harp
Laura Porter
Piano
Matthew Harikian
*Principal Player
Save the Date
17th Annual
Thursday, March 18, 2027
Save the Date
17th Annual
Thursday, March 18, 2027
2027 SJVCBI Adjudicators
Kevin Sedatole
Director of Bands Michigan State
Past SJVCBI Adjudicators
2025
Col. Jason K. Fettig
Director of University Bands, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
​​
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
​​
Darcy Vogt-Williams
​Head Band Director, Stiles Middle School​
​​
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
​
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
