Band

The Trimble Tech Bulldog Band is a music organization comprised of four different ensembles: Varsity Band, Non-Varsity Band, Beginner Percussion Class, and the Marching Band. Our motto, "Excellence in Everything," challenges students at all musical levels to be the best version of themselves on and off the rehearsal field. We believe through their experiences with band, students will gain a greater appreciation for the fine arts, develop stronger personal relationships with their peers, and grow as more mature young adults entering the work force or post-secondary education. The Bulldog Band is under the direction of Mr. Jacob Belk and Mr. John Gaal. More information about the directors, the audition process in becoming a Bulldog Band Member, and our organization may be found on our website: www.tthsband.org.

Jacob Belk

Director of Bands

Mr. Belk is the Head Band Director at Trimble Tech High School. Previously, he was the director at McLean MS and taught private lessons around the country. Mr. Belk earned his Masters of Music from The Cleveland Institute of Music where he studied trombone performance with Richard Stout and Steve Witzer. While in Cleveland Mr. Belk performed regularly many local symphonies. Mr. Belk earned his Bachelors of Music Education from

Louisiana State University where he studied with Larry Campbell and Frank Wicks. When he is not at work, Mr. Belk enjoys spending time with his family. Elise Belk, his wife, is the Professor of Oboe at TCU. Finn, His son, is an accomplished singer in the Texas Boys’ Choir. Fiona, his daughter, is stating her music studies on the Piano. Henry, the dog, is a very unmusical 105-pound mutt.

John Gaal

Assistant Director of Bands

John Gaal is the Percussion Director for Trimble Tech High School, and he is a freelance percussionist, composer, and educator in the greater DFW area.

John received his Master’s in Percussion Performance from Texas Christian University, under the direction of Dr. Richard Gipson, Dr. Brian West, Jeff Hodge, and Joey Carter. He received his Bachelor’s of Music in Orchestral Performance from Bob Jones University, under the direction of Rob Schoolfield, Dr. Dan Turner, and Dr. Michael Moore.

John is an active educator in the marching arts. Having played the marimba for The Cavaliers (2013, 2014, 2015) and Music City Mystique (2015 & 2016), John now serves as the Co-Percussion Caption Head at Southwind Drum & Bugle Corps (2015-Present) and Front Ensemble Coordinator at The Colts Drum & Bugle Corps (2020-Present). When John is not teaching band, he is working as a Sales Representative for Tarpley Music, doing Crossfit, playing guitar, or teaching himself new skills