Jake McClain is the Director of Bands at Williamstown Jr/Sr High School. Mr. McClain received his Bachelors of Music Education from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Prior to Williamstown, Mr. McClain served as the Associate Band Director and Director of Jazz Bands at North Mesquite High School in Mesquite, TX. In this role, Mr. McClain helped lead the Big Blue Band to 3 consecutive State Marching Band Contest Appearances with 2023 being the first in school history. Concert bands under his direction consistently earned superior ratings and sweepstakes awards at UIL Concert and Sightreading Assessment and under his leadership, the NMHS Jazz Program saw consistent growth with recent accomplishments including: creation of a jazz ensemble course in Mesquite ISD, addition of a non-varsity jazz ensemble, consistent first division ratings at local festivals, 2nd place finish at TCU Jazz Festival in 2025, and performing with guest artist Spencer Merk in 2026. Additionally, Mr. McClain was honored as a Mesquite ISD First Class Teacher of the Year in 2022.  

From 2017-2021, Mr. McClain marched baritone at Legends Drum and Bugle Corps and Carolina Crown Drum and Bugle Corps. Mr. McClain holds membership in the Kentucky Music Educators Association and the National Assocation for Music Education. 

Mr. McClain currently resides in Covington, KY with his wife Alex and cat Marty. He enjoys drinking good coffee, playing pickleball, and cheering on his favorite Chicago sports teams!

Jon Popham is a visual instructor and designer based out of Georgetown, Kentucky. Jon’s drumcorps career began in 2009, marching trumpet with the Glassmen Drum and Bugle Corps. Overthe last 15 years, Jon has worked with the Glassmen, Blue Knights, The Cavaliers, and Mandarins. 

In addition to drum corps, he has also worked with Rhythm X Winds, Cap City Percussion, and is the assistant director of the Williamstown “Band of Spirit”. Jon is an active drill designer, clinician, and consultant for high school and college marching bands; as well as WGI groups throughout the United States.

Jon is a graduate from the University of Kentucky and University of the Cumberlands. He holds a Rank I and is a high school special education teacher. Jon is a recipient of the 2023 Excellence in Teaching award presented by Campbellsville University and the 2025 Golden Apple Award for Northern Kentucky. Jon is married to his wife, Morgan, and they enjoy traveling, going to UK games, and spending time with their dog, Maggie.