Chayse Howard

Hello! 

My Name is Chayse Howard, I am the Clyde A. Erwin Middle School band director, and assistant Erwin High School marching band director.

Growing up in Fairview NC, I was born and raised in the area, and I am a former A. C. Reynolds Rocket.  I have called Asheville and Fairview my home my whole life, and after graduating from App State in 2025 with my bachelors in music eduction, I was called back to Asheville to serve the community in which I was able to grow and prosper.

I spent most of my time while at university participating in different ensembles, and took an extra year in college to experience as many as I could. I participated in the Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Marching Band, Jazz Band, Glee Club, Tuba and Euphonium Choir, several chamber ensembles, and the Gospel Choir. I served as the glee club president and tuba section leader from 2024-2025, and took private lessons on piano, tuba, and voice. 

I love all genres of music, and find myself listening to something different every day. I grew up singing folk songs with my family, and love to incorporate singing in my classes, despite being a band director. I find that the voice is the first instrument everyone has, and I want to help each student unlock their potential in as many musical areas as possible. 

I have too many hobbies to count, but the ones I am most present in are fossil and artifact hunting/collecting, reading, video gaming, leather and costume working, voice acting, cooking, plants and bioactive enclosures, and course playing my primary instrument, the tuba. 

I grew up on a farm and couldn't imagine life without pets. I currently have 2 bobtail calico cats, Athena and Calypso, as well as 2 ball pythons named Woody and Dinah, and a crested gecko named Azula. I nerd out about anything and everything natural science related and try not to get too distracted talking about these things during class. 

I am currently engaged to the love of my life, who I met while in the App State marching band. 

While I have only been teaching band since 2025, I am passionate about what I do, and care deeply for the success of my students. I am still learning every day, and find myself in awe of how much my students have helped me to grow as well during my time. 

I look forward to meeting you, and making music together!

Also, I really hope you like corny jokes.