Karlos Elizondo

Director of Bands

Karlos Angel Elizondo, with two decades of teaching experience, has been a dedicated educator at Bradley Middle School in North East ISD since 2018. Prior to his tenure here, Mr. Elizondo served at Kirby Middle School and as the Grammar Hall Band Director at Regents School of Austin, where he focused on 5th and 6th grade bands. His extensive expertise also encompasses roles as a High School Band Director, including positions at Tom C Clark High School (Northside ISD), McCollum High School (Harlandale ISD), and Burbank High School (San Antonio ISD).

In 2005, Mr. Elizondo earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Texas State University in San Marcos, TX, under the mentorship of distinguished educators like Dr. Keith Winking, James Hudson, Freddie Mendoza, Jack Laumer, and John Lopez. During his collegiate years, he actively contributed to the Texas State University performing wind bands and showcased his musical prowess as the lead trumpet in various ensembles.

At Bradley Middle School, Mr. Elizondo oversees the Honor Band and the Jazz Ensemble, providing valuable assistance to the Symphonic Band, and instructing beginner brass classes. His bands consistently excel, earning UIL Sweepstakes ratings, unanimous first division ratings, Best In Class, and Overall Outstanding Band honors at festivals throughout the state.

In 2019, the Bradley Jazz Band 1 received the honor of performing at both the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic and the Texas Bandmasters Association Convention. The Bradley Jazz Program has flourished, boasting a membership of over 75 students and featuring three full jazz big bands, a jazz combo, and a beginner jazz band (6th grade). Under Mr. Elizondo's guidance, his jazz bands have consistently secured first place recognition at various prestigious festivals, including those at Texas State University, St. Mary’s University, and Palo Alto College.

Beyond his teaching role, Mr. Elizondo actively contributes to the field as a clinician and adjudicator, holding memberships in the Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, and the Texas Jazz Educators Association. What sets him apart is his dual role as an active, sought-after musician in and around the state of Texas. As a distinguished "first call" Lead Trumpet player, Mr. Elizondo has graced the stage with illustrious ensembles such as The San Antonio Symphony, The Austin Symphony Big Band, The GAP Band, The Temptations, Mannheim Steamroller, Tito Puente, Eddie Palmieri, The Latin Breed, and The United States Air Force Band of the West, among others. Frequent performances with the Doc Watkins Big Band at the San Antonio Pearl further showcase his musical prowess.

While at home, Mr. Elizondo cherishes moments with his wife Madeline and their two children, Amelie and Karlitos. During his leisure time, he enjoys both staying active and unwinding. Their household is also graced by the presence of an English Bulldog named Roscoe and a tabby cat named Laney.