About

Meet Your Band Director: Mr. Stary (pronounced Star-e)

With over 35 years of experience directing bands, adjudicating contests, and leading student musicians, my mission is simple: to build confidence, sense of belonging, and a lifelong love of quality music in every student.

Music is far more than notes on a page—it teaches teamwork, focus, and resilience. Whether we’re mastering our first concert piece, exploring rhythms, or preparing for our big performances, our band room is an encouraging space for every student!

* Decades of Teaching Band Experience: Over 35 years directing concert, marching, jazz ensembles and teaching flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, french horn, trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion.

* Active Working Musician: A passionate jazz trombonist who performs in community bands, his own soul-jazz cover band, and has marched with the national Band Director Marching Band at the Pasadena Rose Parade and Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

* Student-First Philosophy: Fostering a supportive, high-energy environment where students build discipline, make lasting friendships, and have fun making music together.

To Our Band Students:

Get ready for an exciting year. We’re going to work hard, play great music, and make sounds you will be proud of. Bring your curiosity, your enthusiasm, and have your cleaned up instrument ready to go, we’ll take care of the rest!

To Our Parents & Families:

Thank you for supporting your child’s musical education. You are an essential part of the band family, and open communication is always my priority. You are ALWAYS welcome into the band room. Please never hesitate to reach out with questions about instruments, rehearsals, or how to help your student practice at home.

Let’s make some noise and make it a fantastic year!

Contact Information:

* Email: rstary@holy-redeemer.com      * School Phone: 507-532-6642