Foundations of the Westfall Band Program (1964–1976)

The Westfall Band program was established during a period of growth and transition for the district. Westfall High School opened in 1965, providing the community with its first dedicated secondary campus and laying the groundwork for a formal, comprehensive band program. Prior to the construction of the Middle School in 1981, band students from multiple elementary communities were combined at the junior high level, creating early traditions of collaboration and school pride.

The program’s earliest leadership helped shape its musical and educational foundation. Douglas Garrett (1964–1966) served as the first director during the years surrounding the opening of the high school, establishing the band program at a pivotal moment in district history. He was followed by Rebecca Clark (1966–1967), whose brief tenure coincided with the program’s earliest years of organization and identity.

From 1967 to 1969, Larry Eicher guided the band through a period of growing enrollment and stability. He was succeeded by James Kibby (1969–1976), a highly respected trumpet player and educator whose musicianship and leadership left a lasting impact on students. Under Kibby’s direction, the band continued to mature artistically and structurally, inspiring many students—most notably future director Mark Hosler—to pursue careers in music education.

By the mid-1970s, the Westfall Band had developed a strong foundation of musicianship, participation, and community support. This groundwork positioned the program for a period of unprecedented growth and recognition beginning in 1976, marking the start of what would become one of the most celebrated eras in Westfall Band history.

Continuing the Tradition: Growth, Transition, and Renewal (1986–Present)

Following the conclusion of Mark Hosler’s tenure in 1986, the Westfall Band program entered a period marked by both continuity and change. Leigh Briggs (1986–1987) briefly served as director, helping guide the program through an important leadership transition. During this time, Mark Shaffnit assumed the role previously held by Rita (Ingman) Spring, continuing her work with the middle school band and strengthening the connection between grade levels.

In 1987, Todd Seymour, a graduate of The Ohio State University, became Director of Bands, ushering in a long and stable era that lasted nearly two decades (1987–2006). Seymour’s leadership sustained the traditions established in previous decades while adapting the program to changing educational and district needs. In 2006, amid district-wide layoffs, Seymour transitioned into a technology teaching position in order to remain in the district, a move that allowed the band program to continue without interruption.

That same year, Mark Shaffnit, a percussionist and graduate of Capital University, assumed leadership of both the middle school and high school band programs. Shaffnit’s tenure (2006–2019) became one of the longest in program history. Known as a legacy director, he provided consistency, mentorship, and steady growth across both buildings before retiring at the conclusion of the 2018–2019 school year.

In 2019, Kirsten Herth, a flutist and fellow Capital University graduate, became Director of Bands. Herth’s tenure (2019–2023) coincided with one of the most challenging periods in modern education: the COVID-19 pandemic. Navigating health restrictions, disrupted instruction, and declining student participation—while also following a long-tenured director—Herth worked to preserve the core of the program and maintain musical opportunities for students during unprecedented circumstances.

The program entered its current chapter in 2023 with the appointment of Hayden Biedenharn, a tubist and graduate of The Ohio State University, who assumed leadership prior to band camp. Since taking over the program, Biedenharn has overseen consistent growth in enrollment and student engagement, reflecting renewed momentum and enthusiasm within the band. During this period of revitalization, the program was also able to make significant investments in its future, including the purchase of new marching band uniforms—the first uniform replacement since 2006—as well as a brand-new drumline. These improvements were made possible through the generous support of the Westfall Education Foundation and the Westfall Boosters, whose continued partnership has played a vital role in strengthening the program and enhancing the student experience.

Today, the Westfall Band continues to honor its legacy while looking forward—rooted in tradition, strengthened by resilience, and committed to excellence. From its earliest days to the present, The Pride of the Mustangs remains a defining part of Westfall High School’s identity and community spirit.

Marching Band Competition Records

1977 – Grand Champion Band – Miami Trace Band Competition – Washington C.H., OH

1982 – Grand Champion Band – Miami Trace Band Competition – Washington C.H., OH

1982 – 3rd Place, Large Bands - Secret Santa Holiday Parade – Columbus, OH

1983 – 1st Place Band Overall – Secret Santa Holiday Parade – Columbus, OH

1983 – Superior Rating – Buckeye Invitational Band Competition – Ohio Stadium, Columbus, OH

1984 – Superior Rating – Buckeye Invitational Band Competition – Ohio Stadium, Columbus, OH

1984 – 1st Place Band Overall/Honor Band – Secret Santa Holiday Parade – Columbus, OH

1985 – Excellent Rating – Buckeye Invitational Band Competition – Ohio Stadium, Columbus, OH

1985 – Honor Band – Secret Santa Holiday Parade – Columbus, OH

Middle School Photos