Directors and Staff

Director of Bands

419-998-8016

bluhmj@limashawnee.com

Mr. Jaz Wallace Bluhm serves as the Director of Bands here in the Shawnee Local Schools. He holds a Bachelor of Music Education Degree from The Ohio State University, and a Master of Music Degree in Music Education with a specialization in Teaching Artistry from Bowling Green State University where he completed an action research project titled "Engaging the Instrument of the Mind: Audiation in Beginning Band." He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Music Education from Boston University. Mr. Bluhm is a lifelong musician, earning both his name and his early performance career from his father, a professional jazz guitarist. He is a specialist in woodwinds, audiation pedagogy, and jazz.  An expert in conducting and student leadership development, he travels the country as the summer as an instructor for the George N. Parks Drum Major Academy. He lives in Bluffton with his wife,  Samantha, and their three cats, Tiger Lily, Briar Rose, and Mara Jade.

Mr. Bluhm directs the Shawnee High School Marching Band of One, Symphonic Band, 8th Grade Band, and co-teaches the 5th and 6th Grade Bands with Mr. Collins. 

Associate Director of Bands

419-998-8016

collinsa@limashawnee.com

Mr.  Andrew Collins serves as the  Associate Director of Bands here in the Shawnee Local Schools. He holds a Bachelor of Music Education Degree from The Ohio State University, and a Master of Music Degree in Music Education with a specialization in Teaching Artistry from Bowling Green State University where he completed an action research project titled "The Unconducted Process and Performance Student-Directed and Project-Based Learning in the Band Room." A lover of all things Tuba, Mr. Collins is active in historical reenactment performance in numerous Civil War Era reenactment ensembles, most notably the Michigan 2nd Cavalry Brigade Band.  An expert in conducting and student leadership development, he also travels the country as the summer as an instructor for the George N. Parks Drum Major Academy. Mr. Collins lives in Anna with his wife,  Heather.

Mr. Collins assists with the Shawnee High School Marching Band of One, and directs the Concert Band, 7th Grade Band, and co-teaches the 5th and 6th Grade Bands with Mr. Bluhm.