Band Teacher Makes Early Impact

By: Carlos Camargo

December 4, 2024

       One of the many staff members that have arrived at the tank for the year is the newest band director, Timothy Grant. He is replacing the previous band director for the Pride of Colgan marching band and band classes and displays enthusiasm for the opportunity. 

   “I mean Colgan has [quite the] reputation,” said Mr. Grant. “So, it’s just a great place to be in my short time [of] being here so far and it seemed like a great opportunity to take.”  

   Mr. Grant’s teaching style emphasizes active listening and promotes the idea of musical literacy within his band class.  

   “One of the main things I would say is lots of listening like active listening as you’re playing in all the band classes,” said Mr. Grant. “We really talk about kind of balance and things like that.” 

   Mr. Grant has been making a positive impact within the Pride of Colgan Marching band earning straight ones at the Virginia Band and Orchestra Director Association marching band assessment.  

   Earning ones across the board on the marching band assessment is a difficult feat, as judges actively look for many components including visual presentation, the difficulty of the piece and the quality of performance. 

   Hailing from TC Williams High School with a Master’s in music education from Penn State, Mr. Grant provides a new perspective, additionally he’s studied for years. 

   “Obviously, [I played] in high school,” said Mr. Grant. “And then community groups too, Fairfax Wind Symphony, things like that before I was in this area.” 

   Although the retirement of Mr. Magee was a considerable change, Mr. Grant’s arrival has continued the success of the Pride of Colgan Marching Band.