Band History

Stanley Richards - 1940 - 1942, 1946 - 1974

Stanley C. Richards was the Band Director at Billings Senior High School from the 1940s and into the 1970s. After returning from military service in 1946, Richards transformed the school band into a high class symphonic group in the Northwest. Highlights from his career include leading the 92-piece band to Bellingham, Washington to attend the Northwest Music Educators' Conference and being one of the founders of the Montana Bandmasters Association in 1960. Richards had also directed other bands in the community and even led a local dance band, leaving a lasting legacy within the community.

Miss Mae Bruce - 1944-1945

Miss Mae Bruce was the band director at Billings Senior High School for two years during the 1944–1945 school years. Leading through the challenges of World War II, she kept the music program strong and active while the previous band teacher, Stanley C. Richards, was serving the country. The band performed at football games, assemblies, pep rallies, and participated in a unique exchange concert that showcased their talent to visiting students. Bruce also featured standout soloists, giving students opportunities to perform publicly and maintain school spirit during the difficult times.

Dale Preston Hallack 1975 - 1980

Mr. Dale Hallock served as the band director at Billings Senior High School from at least 1975 into 1980. During his time, he led the pep band, stage band, and concert band, contributing significantly to the school’s music program. Under his leadership, the pep band performed at events, such as athletic events and state tournaments. The band also played at school assemblies and community events to show school spirit and showcase the students musical talents.

In addition to his role at the high school, Mr. Hallock was actively involved in the Dale earned his bachelor's degree in Music Education from the University of Montana in 1962. He served as the president of the Montana Bandmasters Association during the 1976–77 term, reflecting his commitment to advancing band education in the state.

Gary Tangen - 1980 - 1999

Gary Tangen served as the Director of Bands at Billings Senior High School from 1980 to 1999. In time, he transformed the program into one of the most respected, earning the band numerous state and regional honors, becoming a powerhouse in the Northwest music scene. Known for his high standards and structured approach, Tangen is well known for the phrase  “Be on time. Know your part. Wear the right uniform. Don’t be a jerk.” While Tangen maintained a very serious demeanor, his students remember him being kind and supportive, inspiring them to reach their full potential. His lasting impact is honored through the Gary Tangen Music Scholarship, awarded annually to a graduating senior who exemplifies commitment, leadership, and personal growth through their experience in the Billings Senior High Band.

Michael Meyer - 1999 - 2002

Michael Meyer holds a Bachelor's degree in Education from Montana State University-Billings. He furthered his studies with a Masters in Music Education from University of Montana and later a Master of Divinity from The King’s University in Los Angeles.

Mr. Michael Meyer served as the band director at Billings Senior High School from 1999 to 2002. During his time as director, he the school’s concert, jazz, and pep bands, contributing to a vibrant and active music program. Under his leadership, the bands performed at various school events, including football games, assemblies, and concerts. Mr. Meyer’s dedication to music education helped maintain the school’s strong musical traditions and provided students with opportunities to develop their talents and perform in diverse settings. Later moving and serving as the 9–12 band director at Benton Community School District in Van Horne, Iowa.

Jeff Long - 2002 - 2020

Jeff Long is recently retired after a teaching career of 34 years. His most recent position was at Billings Senior High, for 18 years.   During that time the bands  earned a reputation for excellence, consistently earning Superior ratings.   In 2011, the Senior High Symphonic Band was selected to perform at the Music Educators National Northwest Conference in Seattle. The next year, Senior was honored as a Grammy Signature School for music.  

Mr. Long's education includes a B.A. in Music Education from the Lionel Hampton School of music at the University of Idaho, and a Masters in Jazz Studies from Indiana University.  While at IU, Mr. Long studied trumpet with Bill Adam and Jazz with David Baker.

While in Billings he has played in a variety of groups including:  Four or More (jazz), Funk in the Trunk, the Brickhouse Band, and the Billings Symphony. He is currently playing EWI  (electronic wind instrument) with various jazz groups.  Mr. Long is also active as an adjudicator and clinician.  He is the Director of the Billings Community Band.

Roy McKenney - 2020 - 2023

Roy McKenney was the director of bands Senior High from 2020 - 2023.  Roy was the assistant at Senior High before and started the popular "Modern Band".  His education includes a B.A. in Music Education from the University of Montana.  Mr. McKenney previously was the director of bands at Malta High School.

Samuel McKenzie - 2023 - current

Samuel McKenzie earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Percussion Performance from The University of Montana in 2009, a Master’s Degree in Percussion Performance from The University of Akron in 2012, and a Master’s Degree in Wind Band Conducting from The University of Akron in 2014.   Samuel has studied with Larry Snider, Robert Jorgensen, Galen Karriker and Robert LedBetter.  After graduating from The University of Akron, Samuel was the music director at Summit Academy School in Akron, Ohio from 2015-16 and recently was the Director of Bands at Meadow Hill Middle School in Missoula, MT from 2018-2023.

        Samuel has performed with the Missoula Symphony, Akron Symphony Orchestra, Ed Norton Big Band, Akros Percussion, Joe Augustine, Gary Herbig, Eden Atwood, Liam Teaque, SO percussion and Michael Spiro.  In 2014, Samuel performed as the drumset artist on the Celebrity Silhouette cruise ship.