WHO: EMS and PIC 6th Grade Band, 7th and 8th Grade Band.
WHAT: 2026 Spring "Pops" Concert
WHERE: Grand Blanc East Middle School Gym
COST: FREE
Welcome to Grand Blanc East Middle School's annual Spring Concert. This evening, we celebrate the hard work and artistic commitment of our talented band members. Their dedication during ensemble rehearsals, detailed sectionals, and individual practice sessions is showcased tonight in a performance aimed to both entertain and move you.
As we embrace the vibrant spirit of spring, we anticipate a stellar display of our students’ musical abilities. We invite you, our esteemed audience, to enhance this concert experience by participating actively and observing the respectful quiet that this artistic occasion deserves.
Tonight, we also wish to express our appreciation for your continuous support of our music education programs. It is your encouragement that allows our young musicians to thrive in their musical journeys—exploring creativity, appreciating the arts, and developing their unique voices.
Thank you for joining us this evening. Let’s celebrate the joys of spring and the ongoing achievements of our students in the beautiful world of music.
FLUTES
Gonder, Charlie
Guzak, Brooklyn
Issa, Marcus
Joseph-Jackson, Arielle
Liang, Helen - BIC
Miller, Jamea
Siddiqui, NurJennah - BIC
Tipton, Kaydn
CLARINET
Duso, Lachlan
Ellsworth, Kaidyn
Geer-Hughes, Rylee - BIC
Giles, Alaina
Gouine, Larkin - BIC
Grzymkowski, Rhys* - BIC
Havala, Abigail
Hicks, Tyi - BIC
James, Julian - BIC
Keyser, Grady
Martin, Karis
Mitchell, Blake
Niedzwiecki, Griffin
Richards, Hana
Smith, Eli
Wallace, Pierce - BIC
Williams, Landon - BIC
ALTO SAXOPHONE
Adekolujo, George
Harrington, William
Horkstra, Bronson
Kirkland, Brooklyn
Lopez, Javier
Robinson, Jax
Sedrick, Chase
Smith, Lance - BIC
Sturgess, Henry
Worthing, Calvin - BIC
FRENCH HORN
Allen, Coraline
Bailey, Lauren
Diment, Hayley
McIntyre, Nolan
Smith, Evelyn
BARITONE
Jan, Kasey
Pratt, Hudson
Weaver, Greyson - BIC
PERCUSSION
Alhourani, Faris
Basgall, Reece
Beldyga, Asher
Cole, Riley
Patterson, Otto
Paulson, Conner
*8th Grade Members
TRUMPET
Ahmedmohammed, Mohammed
Alqassis, Taym
Asbridge, Brynn
Ayers, Aiden
Barbaretta, Henry - BIC
Barber, Landon
Batges, Orion
Brock-Smith, Carter
Cain, William - BIC
Candela, Aria
Carrier, Jason
Chappell, Grant
Dockery, Jaxson
Hatcher, BrookLynn
Henne, Samuel
Hoffman, Michael
Howarth, Castiel
Jackson, Kayden - BIC
Jewell, Easton
Jolley, Alexander
Kanon, Lincoln
Keenan, Channon
Kuchenmeister, Lucas
Lang, Sawyer
Lewis, Prentiss
Lindamood, Mason
Moore, Grayson
Patel, Heeva
Patton, Matthew
Pelot, Liam
Perez, Bradley
Perez, Ryan
Smith, Maxwell
Sovey, Ellyck
Sutherland, Duncan
Swieca, Ryan
Topolnicki, Max - BIC
Welch, Samuel
Wood, Owen
TROMBONE
Botello, Ethan
Dumas, Arianna
Kafando, Lamine
Keller, Liam
Kernen, Oliver
Lamble, Tanner
Lin, Austin
Martz, Trace
Mitchell, Bentley
Morris, Mason
Murphy, Danielle - BIC
Music, Valen
Powell, Emily - BIC
Singh, Gurkirat
Simonetti, Dominik
Smith, Declan
Sutherland, Duncan - BIC
Taylor, Emery
Terryah, Demetri
Tinsey, Douglas
Weasel, Ernest
Wilson, Chase
FLUTES
Ahola, Lexi* - BIC
Alexander, Nathan - BIC
Burton, Olivia - BIC
Henderson, Natalie* - BIC
LoFiego, Giada*
Matheson, Emmaline*
Mero, Sophia*
Zander, Caleb*
OBOE
Hazlewood, London
CLARINETS
DuBois, Gavin
Hill, Monroe
Howd, Chloe* - BIC
Kirby, Isla* - BIC
McNeice, Bailey
Leighton, Yianna
Sonnenberg, Emma*
ALTO SAXOPHONE
Bell, Jadon* - BIC
Isaac, Jason - BIC
Kuchenmeister, Camden
Pettigrew, Kadence - BIC
Pickard, Xavier
Waller, Khloe*
Worthington, Kimberly* - BIC
TENOR SAXOPHONE
Laube-Clary, Paxon* - BIC
TRUMPET
Basgall, Silas*
Blaney, Teagon
Candela, Parker*
Colombe, Mason
Conquest, Anna* - BIC
DeLaPazValadez, Ingrid*
Dub, Lucas
Farrington, Scarlett* - BIC
Frampton, Brytton
Gildersleeve, Adon
Heckmann, Wyatt*
Heyworth, Mason*
Kirby, Taylor
Lubeski, Layne
McLemore, Simeon - BIC
Munger, Logan - BIC
Murphy, Samantha* - BIC
Pidsosny, Bentley
Sobota Rabago, Mixtli
Neumann, Skyler
Nowakowski, Ethan*
Orr, Naharaje-G
Trombley, Noah
Welch, Ben*
Wright, Huck
FRENCH HORN
Bassi, Luca
Cole, Abigail*
TROMBONE
Anderson, Allen
Ballo-Shuck, Lukis
Blair, Meesha - BIC
Blust, Mackenzie
Cates, Cayden
Habiba, Yassmine
Lewis, Lauryn - BIC
Lundberg, Victor
Martin, Violet*
Orkisz, Anya*
Shuck, Elliot*
Williams, Alaya
BARITONE
Nowakowski, Evan*
Tuba
Cook, Kyle
Walker, Liam
PERCUSSION
Ayers, Rowen*
Bryant, William
Elizondo, Matthew* - BIC
Foland, William*
Haney, Remington
Howe, Aydin*
Kraut, Shawn
Lang, Maverick* - BIC
McConnell, Taylor*
Lewis, Blake
Mendiola, Brooklyn
Miskey, Emmalynn*
Pallay, Sophia*
Patterson, Fischer*
Philipp, Josephine* - BIC
Safford, Olivia*
Sylvester, Hudson*
Wambaugh, Luke*
*8th Grade Members
Lexi Ahola has played the flute for two years and has grown tremendously as a musician during her time in band. She enjoys reading and babysitting outside of school and takes pride in overcoming challenging music through hard work and practice. Lexi’s favorite part of band is learning a wide variety of music and watching herself improve each year. Her favorite piece this year was Cayuga Lake Overture.
Rowen Ayers has spent three years in the percussion section, bringing a steady beat to the ensemble. Rowen appreciates that band provides a creative break from the typical classroom routine and takes great pride in the skill of memorizing complex music. Outside of the band room, Rowen enjoys spending time in the kitchen cooking and baking. This year, Rowen’s favorite musical highlight was performing the high-energy themes from Pirates of the Caribbean.
Silas Basgall is a dedicated member of the trumpet section with over two years of experience in the band program. Known for his versatility and musical curiosity, Silas is particularly proud of his growth as a musician, which includes the challenge of learning the French horn before returning to his roots on the trumpet. He finds the most reward in the band's live performances, citing our concerts as his favorite part of the year and noting his personal pride in mastering increasingly difficult repertoire. His favorite piece from this year’s folder is the adventurous Pirates of the Caribbean. Outside of the band room, Silas stays busy with a variety of interests, including acting, video games, and walking his dog. He is passionate about video game design and digital content creation, and while he aspires to be a YouTuber, he is also considering a potential future career in the world of music.
Jadon Bell has spent the past two years in the saxophone section, where he has enjoyed learning exciting music and improving his skills as a performer. Outside of band, Jadon enjoys skateboarding and playing video games. He is proud of how much he has improved as a musician and especially enjoyed performing The Avengers this year.
Mackenzie Blust is a dedicated member of the trombone section with three years of experience in the band program. She finds the most excitement in the culmination of her hard work: the live concert performance. Mackenzie is particularly proud of the perseverance she has shown in mastering new and difficult music, citing the intricate piece Gadget as her favorite song from this year’s repertoire. When she is away from her instrument, Mackenzie enjoys staying active through swimming, expressing her creativity through art, and spending time with animals.
Parker Candela has been a member of the trumpet section for three years and finds great joy in both the music and the social side of the ensemble. For Parker, the best parts of band are the fun of playing his instrument and the chance to collaborate with his friends every day. He takes immense pride in his growth as a musician, specifically in mastering the year's more difficult compositions like Gadget and Pirates of the Caribbean. Parker stays very active outside of the music department, competing in baseball and soccer, as well as representing West on the Smash Bros. e-sports team.
Abigail Cole has played the French Horn for three years and is incredibly proud of the significant progress she has made on her instrument during that time. A dedicated musician, she even spent a portion of her break participating in summer band to keep her skills sharp. For Abigail, the best part of band is the social connection—getting to talk and perform alongside her friends every day. Her favorite musical highlight this year was the fast-paced energy of Toboggan Run. When she isn't in the band room, Abigail stays active through karate and enjoys spending her free time gaming.
Anna Conquest has been a member of the trumpet section for three years and has enjoyed the challenge of learning and performing new music alongside her classmates. She takes pride in how far she has come as a musician, especially while performing difficult pieces like “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Outside of band, Anna enjoys painting and relaxing with friends and family. Her favorite piece performed this year was España Cañi.
Ingrid De La Paz Valadez has been a member of the trumpet section for three years, a journey that began with the impressive achievement of earning her "black belt" during her first year in band. Ingrid’s favorite part of the day is the time she gets to spend playing music alongside her friend, Khloé. She feels a deep sense of pride in being part of the ensemble, knowing that her musical growth and performances bring great joy to her parents. Outside of the band room, Ingrid stays creative and active through her love of drawing and playing soccer. Her favorite musical highlight from this year was the performance of the song Gadget.
Matthew Elizondo has played percussion instruments, including marimba and snare drum, for five years and has become a strong leader within the percussion section. Outside of band, he enjoys marching band, wrestling, football, video games, and spending time outdoors with friends. Matthew loves band because it allows him to showcase his talents and connect with others through music. He is most proud of the friendships he has built over the years, and his favorite piece this year was Music from Pirates of the Caribbean.
Scarlett Farrington has performed in the trumpet section for three years and has embraced every opportunity to grow as a musician. She is especially proud of performing at a high school level while still in eighth grade and values the friendships and pride that come with being part of the band program. Outside of music, Scarlett participates in robotics and marching band. Her favorite piece this year was Waveforms (the GBHS Marching Band show).
William Foland has been a vital part of the percussion section for three years, a journey highlighted by his impressive achievement of earning a scholarship to Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. William’s favorite aspect of band is the excitement of diving into new music, and he is particularly proud of the work he put into performing Gadget—which remains one of his favorite pieces alongside American Spirit March. A true creator and explorer, William stays busy outside of school with hobbies ranging from art, crafting, and building things to an interest in cars, planes, and storm chasing. Whether he is outdoors or working on his latest project, William brings a unique spark of curiosity to everything he does.
Wyatt Heckmann is an experienced member of the trumpet section with four years of playing under his belt. He has built a stellar musical track record, notably earning a Division I rating at Solo and Ensemble in 7th grade and contributing to the band's "Straight I" superior ratings at festivals. For Wyatt, the best part of band is the time spent hanging out with his friends in the ensemble. His favorite musical highlight this year was performing the adventurous themes of Pirates of the Caribbean. When he isn't playing his trumpet, Wyatt is usually active with soccer and football or enjoying time with video games.
Natalie Henderson has played flute for three years and has enjoyed the many opportunities band has given her to grow as a musician. She is especially proud of how much she has learned in such a short time and of participating in marching band during eighth grade. Natalie’s favorite part of band is continuing to improve while making music with others. Her favorite piece this year was Cayuga Lake Overture.
Mason Heyworth has been a vital part of the trumpet section for three years, a journey highlighted by his exciting achievement of performing at the homecoming game. Mason’s favorite aspect of band is simply the joy of playing his instrument, and he takes immense pride in the dedication it took to truly master the trumpet. A true sports enthusiast and gamer, Mason stays busy outside of school with hobbies ranging from baseball and basketball to playing video games. Whether he is on the field, on the court, or performing the upbeat rhythms of Happy—his favorite piece this year—Mason brings a unique spark of energy and dedication to everything he does.
Chloe Howd has been a dedicated member of the clarinet section for three years and has shown tremendous growth as a performer during her time in advanced band. She enjoys running, reading, and making music, and is especially proud of performing solos this year alongside another clarinet player. Chloe’s favorite part of band is playing recognizable music and having opportunities to stand out as a soloist. Her favorite selection this year was Cayuga Lake Overture.
Aydin Howe has brought his energy to the percussion section for the past three years. A highlight of his middle school career was participating in the Grand Blanc exhibition, where he had the chance to showcase his skills on a larger stage. For Aydin, the best part of band is the simple, powerful experience of hitting the drums, and he takes great pride in the discipline required to play a song exactly as it should be performed. His favorite musical moment this year was playing the iconic themes of Pirates of the Caribbean. When he isn't behind the percussion kit, Aydin is an avid fan of video games.
Isla Kirby has been a member of the clarinet section for three years and has grown significantly as a musician since beginning band. She values the sense of community that band provides and enjoys collaborating with others who share her love of music. Isla is especially proud of how much she has improved over the years and credits band as one of the most meaningful experiences of her life. Her favorite piece performed this year was When Summer Takes Flight.
Maverick Lang has spent the past three years in the percussion section, where he has enjoyed learning music to the point of muscle memory and performing alongside his fellow musicians. He has participated in marching band and proudly spent two years at Grand Blanc East. Outside of band, Maverick enjoys clay modeling, video games, and watching movies. His favorite part of band is playing music with confidence and precision, and his favorite piece this year was Music from Pirates of the Caribbean.
Paxon Laube-Clary has played tenor saxophone for three years and enjoys watching music come together through rehearsal and teamwork. Outside of band, Paxon participates in swim team, orchestra, and robotics. He takes pride in his sight-reading abilities and appreciates seeing the band improve with every performance. His favorite piece this year was Destiny Fanfare.
Giada LoFiego has been a dedicated member of the flute section for three years, a journey that reached a high note this year when she represented the ensemble in Honors Band. While she loves the music itself—especially performing Happy and Pirates of the Caribbean—she is most proud of the personal growth she has experienced and the many memories she has built with the ensemble. For Giada, band is defined by the close friendships and the joy of making music together. Outside of the band room, she stays active and creative through her love of dance and track.
Violet Martin has been a dedicated member of the trombone section for three years, during which she has seen immense personal growth in her instrumental skills. A passionate musician and artist, Violet has already stepped up to perform with the high school marching band and looks forward to continuing her marching career in the years to come. For her, the most rewarding part of band is the powerful feeling of being part of something bigger than herself. Her favorite musical highlight from this year was the performance of the song Gadget.
Emmaline Matheson has been a vital part of the flute section for three years, a journey highlighted by her impressive achievement of dedicating her last two summers to summer band and performing a standout flute solo at band festival this year. Emmaline’s favorite aspect of band is the joy of playing alongside her friends and diving into new music, and she takes special pride in exploring and practicing unique pieces outside of the classroom that aren't even performed in concerts. A true creator and learner, Emmaline stays busy outside of school with her passion for art and independent musical study. Whether she is collaborating with her peers or mastering the intricate parts of Gadget—her favorite piece this year—Emmaline brings a unique spark of curiosity and artistic dedication to everything she does.
Taylor McConnell has been a versatile member of the percussion section for three years, a time during which she has successfully learned to master a wide variety of instruments. She is particularly proud of how much her musical literacy has improved, noting her ability to adapt to and learn new pieces much faster than when she started in 6th grade. For Taylor, band is the perfect mix of hanging out with friends and the excitement of tackling fun new music, with Spirit of the Wolf standing out as her favorite piece this year. When she is not in the band room, Taylor expresses her creativity through her love for painting.
Sophia Mero has been a member of the flute section for three years, a time marked by significant achievement and musical development. She is particularly proud of her growth as a musician, having earned a Division I rating at Solo and Ensemble and contributing to the ensemble's success in securing a plaque at festival. For Sophia, the heart of the band experience is the community of people and the excitement of playing fun music, with Pirates of the Caribbean and Spirit of the Wolf being her top picks this year. Away from her flute, Sophia is an avid reader and enjoys expressing her creativity through drawing.
Emmalynn Miskey has spent roughly four years as a member of the percussion section, where she has embraced the challenge of mastering a diverse range of instruments. She is particularly proud of her musical curiosity, having learned to play everything from standard percussion to unique instruments like the rainstick. For Emmalynn, the band is more than just a class; it is a community and a family of people who share her passions. Her favorite musical highlight this year was performing Spirit of the Wolf. Outside of the band room, Emmalynn stays active through running and expresses her creativity through art.
Sam Murphy has been a member of the trumpet section for three years and enjoys the creativity and expression that music provides. In his free time, Sam enjoys sketching, painting, and writing fiction. He is proud of developing his musical skills and becoming a proficient trumpet player through dedication and practice. Sam especially enjoys music that becomes second nature through repetition and performance. His favorite piece this year was Happy.
Ethan has been a member of the trumpet section for three years and has built an impressive list of musical memories. He is particularly proud of the ensemble's hard work paying off with a Division I rating at band festival, as well as the unique experience of marching on the football field for Homecoming. For Ethan, the social side of band is the best part, providing a great environment to hang out with friends while making music. His favorite piece from this year’s repertoire is the adventurous music from Pirates of the Caribbean. When he’s not behind the trumpet, Ethan is an avid fan of video games.
Evan Nowakowski has been a member of the baritone section for the past year and a half, contributing to the ensemble's strong performances and success at band festival over the last two years. He takes great pride in the hard work the band puts in for festival season and values the opportunity to hang out and make music with his friends every day. His favorite musical highlight from this year’s repertoire is the upbeat and energetic song Happy. Outside of the band room, Evan is an avid fan of e-sports, where he enjoys following and participating in competitive gaming.
Anya Orkisz is a seasoned member of the trombone section with four years of experience and a highly decorated musical resume. She has earned Division I ratings at Solo and Ensemble for two consecutive years, participated in Honors Band, and successfully achieved all of her "Band Karate" belts. While Anya is a talented performer in her own right, she finds the most joy in the successes of her peers—whether it’s the powerful French horn parts in her favorite piece, Gadget, or a beautifully executed flute solo. For Anya, band is all about the community and the pride she feels for her friends' musical growth. When she isn't playing trombone, Anya is an avid artist who loves creating both in the classroom and at home.
Sophia Pallay has been a member of the percussion section for two years and finds great satisfaction in the process of seeing the ensemble's hard work come together as a piece begins to click. She is particularly proud of her musical literacy, specifically her ability to read music fluently without having to write in notes or reminders. Outside of the band room, Sophia has a unique set of interests including archery and a passion for reptiles. Her favorite musical highlights this year were the performances of Gadget and Fanfare.
Fischer Patterson has been a vital part of the percussion section for three years, a journey highlighted by his proud achievement of mastering "the thing" and simply being good at what he does. Fischer’s favorite aspect of band is the close-knit sense of community it provides, and he is particularly proud of the rhythm and precision he brings to the section. A true creator and builder, Fischer stays busy outside of school with hands-on hobbies ranging from painting to the detailed world of Warhammer 40,000. Whether he is working on his latest miniature or locking in the groove on Gadget—his favorite piece this year—Fischer brings a unique spark of focus and creativity to everything he does.
Josie Philipp has spent three years in the percussion section and has become known for her strong musicianship and positive energy. She enjoys reading and theater and is especially proud of how much she has improved in memorizing music and mastering complex rhythms. Josie’s favorite part of band is the memorable experiences and friendships created throughout rehearsals and performances. Her favorite selections this were When Summer Takes Flight and Cayuga Lake.
Olivia Safford is a seasoned percussionist with four years of experience in the band program. For Olivia, the most rewarding part of being in band is the powerful experience of hearing the entire ensemble come together as a group to create music. She has challenged herself through participation in Solo and Ensemble and takes great pride in the collaborative spirit of the band. Her favorite musical highlight this year was the performance of Destiny Fanfare. Outside of the band room, Olivia is a prolific creator who spends her time drawing, painting, reading, and producing her own videos.
Elliot Shuck has been a dedicated member of the trombone section throughout his three years in the band program. He takes great pride in the ensemble's collective achievements, specifically the hard work and preparation that led to their successful performance at band festival. For Elliot, the best part of the band experience is the time spent with his friends, building memories together while making music. His favorite piece from this year’s repertoire was the adventurous Pirates of the Caribbean. When he isn’t in the band room, Elliot stays active on the field through his love for soccer.
Emma Sonnenberg has been a member of the clarinet section for three years, a time defined by her steady commitment to musical growth. She takes great pride in how much her technical skills have improved, specifically in mastering complex fingerings and becoming a more confident sight-reader. For Emma, the most rewarding part of band is the personal satisfaction of getting better at her instrument and the excitement of performing challenging repertoire like her favorite piece, Destiny Fanfare, at live concerts. Outside of the band room, Emma loves staying active outdoors and expressing her creativity through painting and baking.
Hudson Sylvester has brought his energy to the percussion section for the past three years, a tenure highlighted by his impressive achievement of earning a Division I rating at Solo and Ensemble. While he is a dedicated musician, Hudson finds the true heart of the band program in the support system it provides; he is most proud of the strong connections he has built, knowing he always has someone to talk to when facing a challenge. For Hudson, band is about making music alongside friends and enjoying upbeat pieces like his favorite song this year, Happy. Outside of the band room, he stays focused and active as a goalie for his lacrosse team.
TBA
Luke Wambaugh has been a vital part of the percussion section for three years, a journey highlighted by his impressive personal progress and dedication to mastering his craft in school. Luke’s favorite aspect of band is the combination of hanging out with his friends and the excitement of learning new percussion techniques, and he is deeply proud of how far his skills have come. A true explorer and competitor, Luke stays busy outside of school with a wide range of hobbies from lacrosse and golf to cooking and exploring the wonders of space. Whether he is out on the field, trying a new recipe, or driving the rhythm on Gadget—his favorite piece this year—Luke brings a unique spark of curiosity and athleticism to everything he does.
Benjamin Welch has been a member of the trumpet section for three years and has been a part of many memorable band moments, from performing on the field during Homecoming to representing the ensemble at festival. He takes immense pride in the band’s consistent success, specifically their achievements at festival over the past two years. For Ben, the best part of band is the opportunity to hang out with his friends while playing energetic music like his favorite song from this year, Happy. When he isn’t playing the trumpet, Ben stays busy on the ice playing hockey and enjoys spending quality time with his family.
Kimberly Worthington has played saxophone for three years and has worked hard to strengthen both her performance and sight-reading skills. Outside of band, Kimberly participates in track and enjoys playing piano. She loves the process of learning and improving new music and is proud of her growth as an alto saxophone player over the years. Kimberly’s favorite piece this year was Cayuga Lake Overture.
Caleb Zander has been a dedicated member of the flute section for three years, reaching a high point in his musical journey during 7th grade when he earned a Division I rating at Solo and Ensemble. For Caleb, the heart of the band experience is the combination of making music and spending time with his friends. He takes great pride in the discipline and effort it takes to master each piece of music, with the mechanical and driving rhythms of Gadget standing out as his favorite work this year. When he isn't practicing his flute, Caleb is an avid fan of video games.
Mr. Corbin Hutchison was the Director of Bands at Grand Blanc High School from August 2003 through July of 2023. Mr. Hutchison is a graduate from Michigan State University where he received his Bachelor Degree in Music Education, and his Masters Degree from Vandercook College of Music in Chicago Ill. Mr. Hutchison was the Assistant Band Director for the Durand Area Schools in Durand, Michigan for four years before coming to Grand Blanc. He has been an active percussion instructor since 1991, where he has worked with several ensembles, including the Colts Drum and Bugle Corps, Michigan State Comp. Line, and the Plymouth Canton Educational Park Marching Band. While at MSU, he performed with the MSU Symphonic Orchestra, MSU Wind Symphony, various MSU Percussion Ensembles, and the MSU Competitive Drumline. Mr. Hutchison is also a 1989 Grand Blanc High School Alumni.
In 2005 the GBCS Board of Education honored Mr. Hutchison for his work with the music program, and in 2010 and 2018 was named the GBHS Elective Teacher of the Year.
In March of 2013 he received the high school “Student Advocate” Award for his continued work to help students with special needs thrive in the music program. In 2013, MSBOA District 3 voted Mr. Hutchison “Teacher of the Year”.
In 2014, Grand Blanc Chamber of Commerce named Mr. Hutchison as “Educator of the Year”.
In 2023, Mr. Hutchison was named "Teacher of the Year" by the Saginaw Valley High School Association.
This is Mr. Hutchison's second year as EMS Band Director.
Mr. Wagner holds a Bachelor's of Music Education from Grand Valley State University and a Masters of Music from Arizona State University. His past work experiences include Allendale (Allendale, MI), Godwin Heights (Wyoming, MI), and Maricopa (Maricopa, AZ), along with teaching graduate pedagogy classes at Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ). His teaching responsibilities have included Band 6-12, Choir 6-12, Orchestra 6-8, and Popular Music 6-8.
Mr. Wagner has a proven track record of success in Arizona (ABODA & AzMBA) and Michigan (MAPA, MCBA, & MSBOA) as a teacher, presenter, and clinician. He previously served as the Vice President for Marching Band in MSBOA District X, as a member of the NAFME pilot committee for Model Cornerstone Assessments, and was the Music Chair for ADE's (AZ) new Academic Standards in the Arts.
Mr. Wagner has presented for the Arizona Music Education Association, Arizona Band and Orchestra Directors Association, and Arizona Society for General Music.
As a musician, Mr. Wagner enjoys an active performing life with jazz and pop gigs on saxophone, along with arranging music for a variety of ensembles. Outside of school, Mr. Wagner likes to be outdoors, make things, and spend time with his pets.