"The Heart of it All" Pride Bands Alliance Conference Performances Program
Hello!
Welcome to beautiful Columbus, Ohio for the 2024 Pride Bands Alliance National Conference!
This week brings nearly 400 musicians from across the country to Columbus for camaraderie, music making, and fabulous new experiences. It is the honor of The Columbus Pride Bands to host this year’s conference, uplifting not only our own community, but also our national organization through LGBTQ+ music, visibility, and pride.
The performances you are about to hear are the culmination of countless hours of preparation undertaken by our planning committee, artistic directors, guest conductors, and musicians.
I want to express my deep appreciation to all the individuals involved in making this concert, and this conference, a reality and to the Pride Bands Alliance for entrusting us with hosting this event. Our conference director Tim Yanok, as well as my colleagues and friends Jennifer Olis and Jon Noworyta deserves special recognition for their tireless efforts to make this week a success.
I also want to draw your attention to what I believe will be the highlight of our finale concert, the world premiere of John and Jim by the acclaimed composer Viet Cuong. Commissioned by both The Columbus Pride Bands and The Queen City Freedom Band of Cincinnati for this conference, the piece is a celebration of the relationship shared between John Arthur and Jim Obergefell, and the role they played in bringing marriage equality to the United States of America.
Our theme this week has been “The Heart of it All.” Throughout the conference both our host musicians from Columbus and our guests from 27 member bands, many of whom are first time attendees, have shared laughs, meals, and memories. It is the connections we form, the relationships we build, and the experiences we share that make these events and this organization special. What could be more at “The Heart of it All” than that?
CHARLES ROTH and NICHOLES NUNLEY, GUEST ARTISTIC DIRECTORS
PROGRAM
Hang on Sloopy
Industry Baby Lil Nas X arranged by Jay
Play That Funky Music Wild Cherry arranged by Chris McDonald
Whip It Devo arranged by Tom Wallace
Ride Twenty One Pilots arranged by Victor López
Let It Whip
Life is a Highway
Dance The Night
Fireball
Long Train Runnin’
The McCoys arranged by John Tatgenhorst
Bocook
Dazz Band arranged by Tom Wallace
Rascal Flatts arranged by Paul Murtha
Dua Lipa arranged by Paul Murtha
Pitbull arranged by Victor López
The Doobie Brothers arranged by Martin Osborne
Pep Band Personnel
Piccolo
Al White, Queen City Freedom Band
Amanda Brown, Mile High Freedom Bands
Christina King, Columbus Pride Bands
Erica Wolf, Columbus Pride Bands
JP Manabat, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Rosena Trover, Columbus Pride Bands
Stéfan Hoïmes, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Thomas Duncan-Emmons, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Flute
Alfredo Fernandez, Rose City Pride Bands
Andrea Avers, Columbus Pride Bands
Brandon M. Gray, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Brian Luke, The Queer Big Apple Corps
Catherine Schofield, Mile High Freedom Bands
Chaz Gilmore, Mile High Freedom Bands
David Doan, Gay Freedom Band of Los Angeles
Devon Piskac, Columbus Pride Bands
Gwenhwyvar Touketto, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Hannah Sieber, Columbus Pride Bands
Juan Hernandez, Mile High Freedom Bands
Lori Kolb, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Matthew Lippert, Columbus Pride Bands
Patrice Mustaafaa, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Peter Prefontaine, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Robert Reed, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Saraa Koga, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Taka Aoki, San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Vanessa Cox, Columbus Pride Bands
Clarinet
Abdo Timejardine-Zomeño, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Alejandro Martinez, Pride of San Antonio Showband
Andrew Diehl, D.C.’s Different Drummers
Andy Hemr, Mile High Freedom Bands
Antonio Perez, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Cheryl Dykstra, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Craig Bunch, Rose City Pride Bands
Daniel John Lyons, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
David Copsey, Cleveland Pride Band
Deborah Hirsch, Houston Pride Band
Doug Litwin, San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Eloise Jones, Columbus Pride Bands
Emily Maroni, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Erin Worrell, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Hannah Swanson, Cleveland Pride Band
Henry Hamilton-Clement, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Hunter Duseau, Cleveland Pride Band
Jim Norris, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Joe Kennedy,
Central Florida Sounds of Freedom and Colorguard
Jordan Francisco, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Kathy Hennig, San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Lorri Platek, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Marjie Gerke, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Marty Crimmins, BandTogether
Rachel Hisey, Columbus Pride Bands
Stephen J. Brown, Queen City Freedom Band
Tucker Barton, Columbus Pride Bands
William Fu, Houston Pride Band
Bass Clarinet
Andrew Farthing, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Denny Simpson, Queen City Freedom Band
Josh Bayles, Oak Lawn Band
Alto Saxophone
Amy Miller,
Central Florida Sounds of Freedom and Colorguard
Charles Roth, D.C.’s Different Drummers
Clay Parlette, Columbus Pride Bands
Dillon Wertz, Cleveland Pride Band
Donna Jacoby-Banks, Columbus Pride Bands
Gene Terry, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Jason Morley, Atlanta Freedom Bands
John Li, Oak Lawn Band
Joshua Powell, Columbus Pride Bands
Justin Broyles, Queen City Freedom Band
Laura Rigg, Columbus Pride Bands
Len Ulibarri, Mile High Freedom Bands
Leo Mollohan, Columbus Pride Bands
Marc Dunbar, Oak Lawn Band
Mark O’Daniel, Triangle Pride Band
Mark Straughter, Columbus Pride Bands
Michael A. Palacioz, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Sam Aquino Pogue, Rose City Pride Bands
Tyler Baranowski, Tampa Bay Pride Band
Pep Band Personnel (continued)
Tenor Saxophone
Caleb Griffith, Columbus Pride Bands
Chris Mills, San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Doug Campbell, Triangle Pride Band
Eli Raver, Columbus Pride Bands
Jay Niedzielski, Columbus Pride Bands
Langston Pierce II, Columbus Pride Bands
Moira Wilmes, San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Sean Casey, D.C.’s Different Drummers
Zach Meyer, Columbus Pride Bands
Baritone Saxophone
Curtis Anderson, Mile High Freedom Bands
Jose Peralez III, Pride of San Antonio Showband
Nathan Stenner, Columbus Pride Bands
Trumpet
Amanda Pease, San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Amy Yanok, Columbus Pride Bands
Andrea Wagner, Columbus Pride Bands
Chloe Alibeckoff, Cleveland Pride Band
Clark Vander Broek, Mile High Freedom Bands
Dave Szczepanik, Philadelphia Freedom Band
David Lea, Houston Pride Band
Dayne McIntyre, Oak Lawn Band
Dencil White, Desert Winds Freedom Band
Dennis Hubach, Columbus Pride Bands
Eddie Costa, South Florida Pride Bands
Emily Dodd, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Ginnie Padgett, San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Heather Riebeling, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Jack Riggs, Columbus Pride Bands
Jason Fulks, Columbus Pride Bands
Jonathan E. Law, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Jonathan Harvey, Oak Lawn Band
Josh Fox, Columbus Pride Bands
Julie Hoag, Columbus Pride Bands
Kenny Manns, Cleveland Pride Band
Kevin Vaselakes, Columbus Pride Bands
Lashanda Cavin, Columbus Pride Bands
Lindy Crimmins, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Marek Szeszycki, San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Mary Beth Alsdorf, Houston Pride Band
Melissa Terrell, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Michael Cantillo, Oak Lawn Band
Michelle Ramsey, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Mellophone
Alanna Durham, Cleveland Pride Band
Ashley Whitaker, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Brittany Rigg, Columbus Pride Bands
Chad Keitel, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Chris Daniels, Columbus Pride Bands
Christopher Belarde, Charlotte Pride Band
Demetrius Adams, Triangle Pride Band
Diana Wedel, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Doug Pope, Columbus Pride Bands
Jamie Fox, Columbus Pride Bands
Jason Rogers, Tampa Bay Pride Band
Jeremy Helsel, Columbus Pride Bands
Jonah Rayas, Pride of San Antonio Showband
Kai Davis, Columbus Pride Bands
Kim Heron, Rose City Pride Bands
Nick Nunley, Oak Lawn Band
Tali Linton, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Tommy Posanti, Cleveland Pride Band
Zach Rude, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Mike Dibler, Central Florida Sounds of Freedom and Colorguard
Rachael Kincaid, Columbus Pride Bands
Sofia Closson, Columbus Pride Bands
Stephen Bohland, Columbus Pride Bands
Sue Jones, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Tommy Hudnall, Charlotte Pride Band
Vivian Nguyen (they/she), Charlotte Pride Band
Pep Band Personnel (continued)
Trombone
Aaron Rambo, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Alfredo Gomez Jr, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Bebe Barnes, Triangle Pride Band
Betsy Cleland, Columbus Pride Bands
Bill Baker, Columbus Pride Bands
Bill Leschorn, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Branden M. Nicholson, Charlotte Pride Band
Brandon Strawn, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Chip Gue, Columbus Pride Bands
Chris Longoria, Houston Pride Band
Chuck Wilson, Cleveland Pride Band
Colleen Callan, Houston Pride Band
Colleen Popko, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Em Justice, Columbus Pride Bands
Emily Spezia-Shwiff, Cleveland Pride Band
Jared Foelsch, San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Jason Jackson, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Jeffery Riggs, Columbus Pride Bands
Nat Hickman, Columbus Pride Bands
Nate Russell, Columbus Pride Bands
Rayshaun Bennett, Houston Pride Band
Rhonda Tullis, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Zef Hernandez-Hersh, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Baritone
Chris Johansen, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Christine Swoboda, Columbus Pride Bands
Danny Yeager, Columbus Pride Bands
Elliot Venford, Columbus Pride Bands
Jacob Lowry, Columbus Pride Bands
James Cordle, Columbus Pride Bands
Joe Bonasera, Tampa Bay Pride Band
Nick Gesell, Queen City Freedom Band
Ricoh Smith, Central Florida Sounds of Freedom and Colorguard
Stephen Phillips, Columbus Pride Bands
Sousaphone
Charlie McDonald, Cleveland Pride Band
Chris Dodson, Triangle Pride Band
Christopher Torres, Gay Freedom Band of Los Angeles
Chuck Varin, Mile High Freedom Bands
Cliff Norris, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Cristián Martin, Triangle Pride Band
Juan Canasi, Central Florida Sounds of Freedom and Colorguard
Michael L Mehr, San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Michael Livingston, Oak Lawn Band
Snare
Abby Gaskins, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Aidan Attreau, Mile High Freedom Bands
Chelsea Dare, Triangle Pride Band
Christian Hopkins, Houston Pride Band
Jeff Martin, Queen City Freedom Band
Julie Walsh, The Queer Big Apple Corps
Katie Steele, Freedom Trail Band of Boston
Marc Conte, Columbus Pride Bands
Mitch Cave, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Natalie Jones, Columbus Pride Bands
Cymbals
Kate Hanley, Charlotte Pride Band
Ryan Fitzpatrick, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Quads
Erik Stalcup, Cleveland Pride Band
Lane Hunter, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Ryker Smith, Triangle Pride Band
Mallets
Drew Marquis, Cleveland Pride Band
George Oh, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Auxiliary
Gini Pikaart, Columbus Pride Bands
Sally Canjura-Clayton, San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Bass Drum
Allison Miller, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Alynn Rousselle, Queen City Freedom Band
Christopher Sego, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Denny Richard, Rose City Pride Bands
Ender Stoker, Columbus Pride Bands
Evan Howington, Rose City Pride Bands
Fahad AlSuwaidi, Triangle Pride Band
Fitz Dement, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Jamie Schoffstall, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Katy Okamoto, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Mads Andrews, Atlanta Freedom Bands
“The Heart of it All” Pep Band
Artistic Directors
Megan Jacoby Banks
Megan Banks is a music educator and percussion specialist. Megan received her Bachelors's in Music Education from the University of Toledo in 2015, with a specialization in Instrumental Music. She studied percussion under Dr. Olman Piedra and has training in both classical and jazz idioms. Megan works for Columbus City Schools as a middle school band teacher; her educational philosophy focuses on giving students a contemporary and relevant music education for the 21st century.
Megan’s day-to-day teaching includes a mixture of traditional music education principles, modern experiences such as audio production, and the infusion of current popular styles of music. Megan remains immersed in the music community on a local and national level. She has performed with the Columbus Pride Bands since 2016 as a band member and section leader. She currently performs at venues all over Ohio with her indie-pop band Made of the Mist and is also working on an upcoming funk project called Dankköpolis.
Megan is a member of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity and the Ohio Music Education Association. Megan currently resides in Grove City, OH, with her wife and 2 cats, and spends her free time hiking, songwriting, and playing video games.
Charles Roth (Washington, DC)
Mr. Charles Roth is the Marching Band Artistic Director and Conductor at DC's Different Drummers, from our nation's capital in Washington D.C. Under his leadership, the band has significantly expanded its presence in and around our nation’s capital, leading to high profile performances including the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, Smithsonian Institute, World Pride 2019, and two special appearances at the Naval Observatory, home of Vice President Kamala Harris.
Aside his duties at DC's Different Drummers, Roth is an active music educator in Alexandria, Virginia where he teaches band at an IB (International Baccalaureate) school. In his time there, he has increased student engagement, tripled the size of the band programs, founded the schools music booster organization, led the band to multiple festivals and competitions with a legacy of success, and assisted / led the schools Gay Straight Alliance (GSA). Roth's professional affiliations (present and past) include Pride Bands Alliance, the National Association of Music Education (NAFME), the Ohio Music Educators Association (OMEA), Virginia Band Orchestra Directors Association (VBODA), and the North American Saxophone Alliance (NASA). Charles is an Ohio native from Vandalia, Ohio and previously lived in Columbus before moving to Washington D.C. Roth holds degrees from Miami University of Ohio (BME), and University of Kentucky (MA) among other certifications.
Nicholes Nunley (Dallas, TX)
Nicholes Nunley is the Artistic Director of the Oak Lawn Band of Dallas, TX and guest conducted at the 2023 Rocky Mountain Dreams conference in Denver, CO. Nicholes is an active music educator and a graduate of the University of Texas – Austin where he studied conducting with Ryan Kelly and Jerry Junkin.
PRESIDENTS CIRCLE
DONOR CIRCLES
Presidents Circle acknowledges annual contributions of $500 or more.
Aaron Rambo & William Leschorn
Adam DeRosa & John Garcia
Alfredo Gomez Jr.
Clifton Norris & Dr. Christopher Palazzolo
Dan Bassett & Francis Lyn
Dencil White
Doug Litwin
Gary Carroll
Gary Moline
Harvey Zuckman & Phil Oxman
Jason B. LeBrun & Jason A. Dixon
Jessie Davis
Judy Ames & Laura Whitbeck
Julian Lander
Lisa Mace & Nancy Wintle
Mary Beth Alsdorf & Jan Wesson
Melissa Terrell
Michael Mehr
Moira Wilmes & Denni Harp
Nanette King
Nicole Fallin & Mandi MacDonald
Patrice Mustaafaa
Randy Sampson & David Cooperman
Robb Blackwell
Sean Casey
Pride Bands Alliance recognizes the visionary individuals
pride and visibility through music.
Our Donor Circles launched in 2015 by LGBA Past Presidents Doug Litwin, Russell Ben Williams, Judy Ames,
who started Presidents Circle as a community fundraising
FOUNDERS CIRCLE
Founders Circle recognizes donors who have made gifts of $5,000 or more to Pride Bands Alliance.
Alison Jordan & Fran Long
Betsy Smith & Cindy Braunheim
Blake Velde & Brian Fisher
David Doan
Deborah Hirsch & Teresa Clemens
Kevin Taylor & Michael Moore
Laura Whitbeck & Judy Ames
Zef Hernandez-Hersh & Aric Hersh
LEGACY CIRCLE
We remember the memorial and estate donations of our beloved benefactors.
Debra Hunt & Connie Moore
Loren McGlade
Steve Messina
We are thankful for the donors who have joined Presidents Circle over the past nine years. These donors have now contributed more than $126,000 to help Pride Bands participate in special events and to assist in funding commissioned pieces.
“The Heart of it All” Color Guard
JOSE AYALA III, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
CHOREOGRAPHED BY JOSE AYALA III
PROGRAM
of Glory
“The Heart of it All” Color Guard
Artistic Director
Jose Ayala III
Hello! I’m Jose Ayala III, and it is my pleasure to join the Artistic Team for the 2024 Pride Bands Alliance National Conference. My extensive color guard experience includes performing with the Capital Regiment Drum & Bugle Corps, The Flaggots of Ohio, and many years of guard instructing throughout Ohio. I look forward to leading and performing for this event, and hope you have a wonderful experience in Columbus!
Color Guard Personnel
Moirah Bray, Atlanta Freedom Band
Dr. James Collins, Philidelphia Freedom Band
Lyn Swartz, Cleveland Pride Band
Edge
Lady Gaga
“The Heart of it All” Chamber Recital
The Ohio Statehouse Rotunda
6:30 PM | The Eclectic Brass Choir
Josh Fox, brass choir coordinator
Joshua Powell, conductor
PROGRAM
Stronger Together | Tiffany Johns
The Dance of Ill Intent | Chuck Stanley
Façade | Jared Presler
Personnel
Chris Daniels, horn, alto horn
David Gieseler, trumpet, flugelhorn
Erin Stemm, trumpet, flugelhorn, mellophone
Jack Riggs, trumpet
Jamie Fox, horn, alto horn
Jason Fulks, trumpet, flugelhorn
Jeremy Kaufman, trumpet, flugelhorn, mellophone
Josh Fox, piccolo trumpet, frumpet, trombone, euphonium
Sofia Closson, mellophone, cornet
TJ Klopfstein, trumpet, flugelhorn, mellophone
The Ohio Statehouse Rotunda
6:50 PM | Clarinet Choir
Eric Andes, clarinet choir coordinator
Justin Raines, conductor
PROGRAM
By Woodland and Sea
Edward McDonald arr. Charles J. Torian, Jr.
A Picture Book Without Pictures Masanori Taruya
Puszta Part 4
7:15 PM | Flute Choir
Alfredo Fernandez, flute choir coordinator
Craig Bunch, conductor
PROGRAM
“My Favorite Things” from the Sound of Music
Jan Van der Roost arr. Maarten Jense
Richard Rodgers arr. by Hideo Shimazu
Shenandoah Traditional arr. by Ricky Lombardo
“Habanera” from Carmen Georges Bizet arr. by Pfkaori
The Savoyards Sir Arthur Sullivan arr. by Arthur J. Ephross
7:30 PM | Lucas Testin, horn
PROGRAM
Soundings
Saga
James Naigus
James Naigus
“The Heart of it All” Chamber Recital
The Ohio Statehouse Atrium
PROGRAM
Golliwog’s Cakewalk
The Little Shepherd
7:10 PM | Cinq! Saxophone Quartet
Joshua Powell, soprano saxophone
Jessica Tossmann, alto saxophone
Deed Vann, tenor saxophone
Nathan Stenner-Gregoire, baritone saxophone
Mvt. I, String Quartet No 12 Op 96 “American”
Claude Debussy
Claude Debussy
Antonin Dvorak
The Ohio Statehouse Atrium
7:40 PM | Wine Corktet
Chip Wendell, flute
David Lehnus, oboe
Susan Climer, clarinet
Aaron Gilbert, bassoon
Quartet for Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon
Allegro
Andante
Allegro molto
Allegro vivo
7:55 PM | Brass Choir
Nichole Miller, conductor
PROGRAM
Overture to “Dancer in the Dark”
Françaix
Jean
Björk
Chamber Recital Personnel
CLARINET CHOIR
Eb Clarinet
Jon-Patrick (J.P.) Thompson
Clarinet
Antonio Perez
Carl Cummins
Daniel Barker
Diego Martinez
Eli Raver
Hans Berghoff
Leslie Day Brusoe
Ryan Dickerson
Samantha Searls
Simon Heppell
Alto Clarinet
Eric Andes
Henry Hamilton-Clement
Bass Clarinet
Andrew Farthing
Cheryl Dykstra
Jacob Lowry
Stephen Jibri Brown
Contra-Alto Clarinet
Jim Norris
Joshua Bayles
Contrabass Clarinet
Andy Beals
Chris Joseph
Dennis Simpson
Kevon Hall
FLUTE CHOIR
Abigail Mason
Al White
Alfredo Rivera
Amy Dennison
Betsy Smith
Brandon Gray
Brian Luke
Christina King
Christine Swoboda
Eddie Young
Erica Wolf
Fred Martens
Gretchen Scholl
Jared Parker
JP Manabat
Laura Rigg
Matthew Lippert
Paul Krouss
Peter Prefontaine
Robert Reed
Samantha Vann
Saraa Koga
Stefan Hoimes
Taka Aoki
Thomas Duncan-Emmons
BRASS CHOIR
David Gieseler, trumpet
Jack Riggs, trumpet
Tim Yanok, trumpet
Chris Daniels, horn
Jamie Fox, horn
Josh Fox, horn
John Climer, trombone
Stephen Phillips, baritone
Bill Thacker, tuba
Bobby Davison, timpani
“The Heart of it All” Big Band
JESSICA SNEERINGER, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
JASON MORLEY, BIG BAND COORDINATOR
BIG BAND PROGRAM TO BE SELECTED FROM
Set 1
In the Mood
Feetbone
Every Time We Say Goodbye
Sway (Quien Sera)
Basie Straight Ahead
Come Fly With Me
A Nightingale Sang Berkeley Square
Brass Machine
Sammy Nestico
Frank Sinatra arr. James Van Heusen
Manning Sherwin
Joe Garland
Duke Ellington
Cole Porter
Pablo Beltran Ruiz
Mark Taylor
“The Heart of it All” Big Band
JESSICA SNEERINGER, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
JASON MORLEY, BIG BAND COORDINATOR
BIG BAND PROGRAM TO BE SELECTED FROM
Set 2
Softly, As In A Morning Sunrise
You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To
My Funny Valentine
Nice Work If You Can Get It
Sigmund Romberg
Cole Porter
Richard Rodgers
George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin
It’s Been A Long Long Time Jule Styne
Orange Sherbert Count Basie
Angel Eyes Earl Brent
Vehicle
James M. Peterik
SwingColumbus is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit educational and social dance organization. We enjoy, evolve, preserve, study, and teach swing-era dance forms.
These American Rhythm dances come from vernacular African-American dances that co-developed with swing jazz music of the 1920s – 1940s. Social swing dance has 6-count and 8-count patterns, danced to 4/4 music with a “swung” beat.
Big Band Personnel
Alto Saxophone
Alison Jordan, Gay Freedom Band of Los Angeles
Frank Ferro, Triangle Pride Band
Joshua Powell, Columbus Pride Bands
Justin Broyles, Queen City Freedom Band
Leo Mollohan, Columbus Pride Bands
Tenor Saxophone
Chris Mills
San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Cindy Braunheim, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Doug Campbell, Triangle Pride Band
Trombone
Colleen Callan, Houston Pride Band
David Malespin
San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Jason Jackson, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Jimmy Edwards, D.C.’s Different Drummers
Matt Gardner, Queen City Freedom Band
Percussion
Aidan Attreau, Mile High Freedom Bands
Chelsea Dare, Triangle Pride Band
Erik Stalcup, Cleveland Pride Band
Baritone Saxophone
Chris Johnston, Rainbow Concert Band
Jerry Comer, Columbus Pride Bands
Jessica Hoover, Gay Freedom Band of Los Angeles
Bass Guitar | Upright Bass
Loren Lander, Columbus Pride Bands
Trumpet
Jeremy Kaufman, Columbus Pride Bands
Josh Fox, Columbus Pride Bands
Marek Szeszycki, San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
Nichole Miller, Columbus Pride Bands
“The Heart of it All” Big Band
Artistic Director
Jessica Sneeringer
Jessica Sneeringer is a graduate of The Ohio State University earning Bachelor’s Degrees in both Music Education and Trombone Performance as well as a Masters Degree in Music Education. Jessica is currently in her 24th year of teaching, this being her 19th year as the Director of Bands at Columbus Academy in Gahanna, Ohio as well as the Chair of the Performing Arts Department and the Dixon Art Chair Award Recipient.
A member of the Central Ohio Brass Band since 1999, she held the solo trombone chair until 2004, when she stepped onto the podium. Over the 16 years that she conducted COBB the group enjoyed much success, including being 1st Section Champions a record five times at the North American Brass Band Association Championships and being invited to such prestigious events as the Great American Brass Band Festival, the Butlins Contest in the UK, the Ohio Music Education Association Conference, and the 2019 International Trombone Festival. Having left COBB in 2020, Jessica moved to the NABBA adjudication panel for the 2022 and 2023 Championships. She has also been an adjudicator at the US Open and the Dublin Festival of Brass and will adjudicate at the 2024 Great Canadian Brass Band Festival.
Jessica has been a clinician, judge, and coach for several outstanding student groups as well, including the Ohio State University Marching Band, Capital University Junior Winds, The Ohio All-State Band, and The All-Ohio State Fair Band. Jessica is currently on staff at Jazz Arts Group (Columbus) as the director of the Columbus Youth Jazz Ensemble, as well as the director of the Columbus Community Jazz Band. A freelance trombonist, Jessica has performed with many groups including the Springfield Symphony Jazz Orchestra (lead, under the direction of Todd Stoll), Columbus Jazz Orchestra, the 1999 Disney Collegiate All-Star Band (lead), Athena Brass Band (bass), Monarch Brass (bass), We Banjo 3, a variety of other jazz ensembles, and was second trombone in the Central Ohio Symphony Orchestra for 10 years.
Jessica is a member of the Phi Beta Mu Bandmasters Fraternity as well as the American School Band Directors Association. As a conductor, Jessica has been a guest with several groups, including Holiday Brass (Baltimore), the Brass Band of Columbus, and the Otterbein University Wind Ensemble. Since 2012, Jessica has been the conductor of the Athena Brass Band, having had the honor of conducting the group on several occasions. She is very appreciative and honored to have had the opportunity to conduct the Athena Brass Band at the 2021 Midwest Clinic. She is looking forward to being a guest conductor of the Pride Bands Alliance Jazz Band June 2024 and the Athena/Japan Ladies Brass at the International Women's Brass Conference in Mito City, Japan August of 2024. Jessica makes her home in Gahanna, Ohio with her kids Josh and Jordan.
CONCERT BAND PERFORMANCE
“The Heart of it All”
Percussion Ensemble
ALEXANDER ALBERTI and ERIN FRAWLEY, GUEST ARTISTIC DIRECTORS
Beacons of Light
Chad Heiny
Sofapilla
Chuck Ricotta
“The Heart of it All” Percussion Ensemble
Artistic Directors
Alexander Alberti
Alexander Alberti is a music educator and serves as the Artistic Director for the Triangle Pride Band. Alex formerly held the position of Director of Instrumental Music at Longleaf School of the Arts (LSA) and Director of Music at Southern Lee High School. In his professional career, he has worked with music education nonprofits around the country, including the College Music Society, NAMM, the A Cappella Education Association, and Varsity Vocals. Additionally, Alex has served as a conductor, composer, and arranger for high school ensembles across North Carolina and musical productions at UNC Chapel Hill. He is an active researcher in the field of music education, contemporary vocal music, and music theory pedagogy. Alex earned his Master’s degree in Music Education with a post-baccalaureate certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2020. He is also an alumnus of Appalachian State University, where he holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and a minor in Psychology. Alex is a member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity. Full-time, Alex works in educational technology at Instructure. In his spare time, Alex hangs out with his dog, Taiko, and participates in the semi-professional a cappella group, Triadic Vocals.
Erin Frawley
Erin Frawley is a passionate percussionist and conductor who will be leading the percussion ensemble at The Heart of it All conference in Columbus. Beginning her percussion journey in fourth grade, Erin proudly performed in the Tournament of Roses Parade with her high school marching band. She joined the Mile High Freedom Band in 1987, initially as a band aide and truck driver, and eventually as a percussionist, conductor, and board officer. After moving to Massachusetts in 1995, Erin quickly became a key member of the Freedom Trail Band of Boston, serving as their president and conductor since 2007.
Erin has been deeply involved with the Pride Bands Alliance, contributing as a board member, delegate at Gay Games VII, VIII, and IX, performer and section leader in presidential inaugural parades, and performer and conductor at annual Pride Bands conferences. Her dedication to music and leadership within the LGBTQ+ communities has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Outstanding Cultural Participant Legacy Award at Gay Games IX in 2014 and the Pride Bands Alliance Pillars of Pride Award in 2018.
Percussion Ensemble Personnel
Abby Gaskins, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Aidan Attreau, Mile High Freedom Bands
Christian Hopkins, Houston Pride Band
Christopher Sego, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Chuck Moon, Oak Lawn Band
Drew Marquis, Cleveland Pride Band
Ender Stoker, Columbus Pride Bands
Fahad AlSuwaidi, Triangle Pride Band
George Oh, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Julie Walsh, The Queer Big Apple Corps
Katie Steele, Freedom Trail Band of Boston
Katy Okamoto, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Kerry Jones, Tampa Bay Pride Band
Lane Hunter, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Lesa Chadderdon, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Lyn Swartz, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Megan Jacoby Banks, Columbus Pride Bands
Mitch Cave, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Natalie Jones, Columbus Pride Bands
Ryker Smith, Triangle Pride Band
Olentangy River Band
ROBERT DAVIS, JENNIFER OLIS, and DR. JON NOWORYTA, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR JON GOMEZ, DEAN MCDOWELL, and SCOTT HELMS, GUEST ARTISTIC DIRECTORS
PROGRAM
Fanfare Hayabusa
Jennifer Olis, conductor
Vulnerable Joy
Jon Gomez, conductor
Spoon River
Jon Noworyta, conductor
With Heart and Voice
Robert Davis, conductor
Highlights from “Bye Bye Birdie”
Scott Helms, conductor
Defying Gravity
Dean McDowell, conductor
Sponsorship provided by John D. Kennedy in remembrance of his AIDS buddy Tim Selby.
Sponsorship provided by John D. Kennedy in remembrance of his AIDS buddy Bill Wood.
"To Mary Weckman, for superb leadership in difficult times." - From a friend.
“In memory of our dear friend Bob Montooth – John and Susan Climer”
"To Clay and Twila Thacker from a loving son. Thanks for composing me!" - Bill Thacker
Satoshi Yagisawa
Jodie Blackshaw
Percy Grainer, arr. Bainum
David Gillingham
Charles Strouse, arr. Custer
“Dedicated to my late husband and fellow Wick-head, Warren Liang, who I know is defying gravity somewhere!! – Fred Martens”
Let Me Be Frank With You
Jennifer Olis, conductor
“Anthony, you inspire me daily to enjoy the simple things in life – always, Alfredo.”
Steven Reineke
John Mackey
Olentangy River Band Personnel
Piccolo
David Doan, Gay Freedom Band of Los Angeles
JP Manabat, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Matthew Lippert, Columbus Pride Bands
Paul Krouss, Rose City Pride Bands
Flute
Alfred Rivera, Pride of San Antonio Showband
Andrea Avers, Columbus Pride Bands
Catherine Schofield, Mile High Freedom Bands
Chip Wendell, Columbus Pride Bands
Christine Swoboda, Columbus Pride Bands
Edward Young, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Gretchen Scholl, Rose City Pride Bands
Gwenhwyvar Touketto, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Jan Bednarczuk, Columbus Pride Bands
Laura Rigg, Columbus Pride Bands
Martin Godoy, Oak Lawn Band
Robert Reed, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Rosena Trover, Columbus Pride Bands
Thuy Tran, Triangle Pride Band
Vanessa Cox, Columbus Pride Bands
Oboe
David Lehnus, Columbus Pride Bands
Erin Worrell, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Lee Hartman, Mid America Freedom Band
Matt Walters, Triangle Pride Band
Trisha Stacks, Cleveland Pride Band
Zach Meyer, Columbus Pride Bands
Clarinet
Amy Yanok, Columbus Pride Bands
Andrew Diehl, D.C.’s Different Drummers
Antonio Perez, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Becca Faille, Columbus Pride Bands
Carl Cummins, Columbus Pride Bands
Daniel John Lyons, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
David Copsey, Cleveland Pride Band
Deborah Hirsch, Houston Pride Band
Denny Richard, Rose City Pride Bands
Diego Martinez, Pride of San Antonio Showband
Doug Litwin, San Francisco Pride Band
Eli Raver, Columbus Pride Bands
Eric Andes, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Jamie Schoffstall, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Joe Kennedy, Central Florida Sounds of Freedom and Colorguard
Jordan Francisco, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Lenny Sanchez, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Lesly Day Brusoe, Columbus Pride Bands
Marjie Gerke, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Marty Crimmins, BandTogether
Marty Johnson, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Ryan Dickerson, Columbus Pride Bands
Susan Climer, Columbus Pride Bands
Valerie Root, BandTogether
Bass Clarinet
Cheryl Dykstra, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Moira Wilmes, San Francisco Pride Band
Rachel Hisey, Columbus Pride Bands
Wayne Cornett, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Contrabass Clarinet
Andy Beals, Mid America Freedom Band
Jim Norris, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Bassoon
Aaron Gilbert, Columbus Pride Bands
Dana Noeske, Queen City Freedom Band
Jason Stephens, Houston Pride Band
Jimmy Santosa, San Francisco Pride Band
Juan Hernandez, Mile High Freedom Bands
Contrabassoon
Kevon Hall, BandTogether
Alto Saxophone
Chris Sgarlata, Cleveland Pride Band
Clay Parlette, Columbus Pride Bands
Dillon Wertz, Cleveland Pride Band
Frank Ferro, Triangle Pride Band
Jason Morley, Atlanta Freedom Bands
John Li, Oak Lawn Band
Josh Klamut, Cleveland Pride Band
Joshua Powell, Columbus Pride Bands
Justin Broyles, Queen City Freedom Band
Leo Mollohan, Columbus Pride Bands
Marc Dunbar, Oak Lawn Band
Mark O’Daniel, Triangle Pride Band
Mars Strausbaugh, Triangle Pride Band
Michael A. Palacioz, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Mike Swartwood, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Sam Aquino Pogue, Rose City Pride Bands
Tenor Saxophone
Caleb Griffith, Columbus Pride Bands
Chris Mills, San Francisco Pride Band
Christopher Fisher, Queen City Freedom Band
Lorrie Foley, Tampa Bay Pride Band
Obadiah Nelson, Triangle Pride Band
Baritone Saxophone
Jerry Comer, Columbus Pride Bands
Jessica Hoover, Gay Freedom Band of Los Angeles
Lisa Mace, Houston Pride Band
Olentangy River Band Personnel (continued)
Trumpet
Andrea Wagner, Columbus Pride Bands
Bob Hults, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Chad Keitel, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
David Gieseler, Columbus Pride Bands
Dayne McIntyre, Oak Lawn Band
Dencil White, Desert Winds Freedom Band
Eddie Costa, South Florida Pride Bands
Heather Riebeling, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Jack Riggs, Columbus Pride Bands
Joao Cleaver, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Jonathan Harvey, Oak Lawn Band
Joseph Hernandez, Pride of San Antonio Showband
Josh Fox, Columbus Pride Bands
Marek Szeszycki, San Francisco Pride Band
Mary Beth Alsdorf, Houston Pride Band
Melissa Terrell, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Michelle Ramsey, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Rachael Kincaid, Columbus Pride Bands
Rene Echávarri, Pride of San Antonio Showband
Scott Helms, Desert Overture
Sofia Closson , Columbus Pride Bands
Stephen Bohland, Columbus Pride Bands
TJ Klopfstein, Columbus Pride Bands
Vivian Nguyen, Charlotte Pride Band
Will Légaré, Cleveland Pride Band
Horn
Brittany Rigg, Columbus Pride Bands
Candace Weslosky Miller, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Erin Watters, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Jamie Fox, Columbus Pride Bands
Jared Presler, Mid America Freedom Band
Jason Maynard, Charlotte Pride Band
Jason Rogers, Tampa Bay Pride Band
Jeremy Helsel , Columbus Pride Bands
Jonah Rayas, Pride of San Antonio Showband
Joy Palumbo, Triangle Pride Band
Kim Heron, Rose City Pride Bands
Lilith Kieffer, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Sam Englander, Cleveland Pride Band
Tali Linton, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Trombone
Aaron Rambo, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Alfredo Gomez Jr, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Andrew Pridgen, Triangle Pride Band
Bebe Barnes, Triangle Pride Band
Bradley Speck, Cleveland Pride Band
Brandon Strawn, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Brendan Byron, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Chris Longoria, Houston Pride Band
David Malespin, San Francisco Pride Band
George Flores IV, Pride of San Antonio Showband
Jef Furr, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Jeffery Riggs, Columbus Pride Bands
Jimmy Edwards, D.C.’s Different Drummers
Julie Langenfeld, Columbus Pride Bands
Loren Lander, Columbus Pride Bands
Matt Gardner, Queen City Freedom Band
Robert Schelling, Columbus Pride Bands
Timothy Norris, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Bass Trombone
Colleen Callan, Houston Pride Band
Glenn Scarborough, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Euphonium
Bill Leschorn, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Chris Johansen, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Jacob Lowry, Columbus Pride Bands
Jason Hernandez, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Jesus Gonzalez, Desert Overture
Joe Bonasera, Tampa Bay Pride Band
Nick Gesell, Queen City Freedom Band
Ricoh Smith, Central Florida Sounds of Freedom and Colorguard
Robb Strieter, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Stephen Phillips, Columbus Pride Bands
Tuba
Bill Thacker, Columbus Pride Bands
Chris Dodson, Triangle Pride Band
Chris Foster, Houston Pride Band
Jose Ayala III, Columbus Pride Bands
Juan Canasi, Central Florida Sounds of Freedom and Colorguard
Mike Mehr, San Francisco Pride Band
Ryan Lowrie, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Tory Alsip, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Will Sego, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Percussion
Abby Gaskins, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Alex Alberti, Triangle Pride Band
Alex Wang, Cleveland Pride Band
Allison Miller, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Alynn Rousselle, Queen City Freedom Band
Bobby Davison, Columbus Pride Bands
Christopher Sego, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Derek Hassell , Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Erik Stalcup, Cleveland Pride Band
Jeff Martin, Queen City Freedom Band
Julie Walsh, The Queer Big Apple Corps
Kate Hanley, Charlotte Pride Bands
Katie Steele, Freedom Trail Band of Boston
Marc Conte, Columbus Pride Bands
Mitch Cave, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Natalie Jones, Columbus Pride Bands
Steven Carpenter, Columbus Pride Bands
“The Heart of it All” Concert Band
Artistic Directors
Robert Davis, Columbus Pride Bands
Robert Davis has served as the Lead Artistic Director of the Columbus Pride Bands since the spring of 2017, having previously served as Assistant Artistic Director. Robert currently serves as the Director of Bands at Watkins Memorial High School in Pataskala, Ohio. At Watkins Memorial, Robert leads all aspects of the high school band program, including two concert bands, jazz ensemble, marching band, pep band, the musical pit orchestra, and assists with the middle school bands. During his time at Watkins Memorial, the band program has participated in a commissioning project with John Mackey, hosted composer Michael Markowski, worked with notable educators including Frank Battisti, and continues to consistently earn high ratings at adjudicated events. Before moving to Columbus in 2015, Robert earned a Master of Music Degree in Instrumental Conducting from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he studied conducting with Dr. John Climer. While a student at UWM, Robert was the recipient of a Chancellor’s Award and several Graduate Travel Grants, which allowed him to pursue additional study with prominent band conductors around the country. Robert began his teaching career at Anna Local Schools in western Ohio, and he is a proud alumnus of Ohio University. Robert holds professional membership in the National Association for Music Education, Ohio Music Education Association, and National Band Association and is an alumnus of Kappa Kappa Psi.
Jennifer Olis, Columbus Pride Bands
Jennifer Olis has served as Assistant Artistic Director of Columbus Pride Bands since the spring of 2019. She currently is the Director of Bands in the Grandview Heights School District in central Ohio. At Grandview, Jennifer teaches the high school concert band, high school marching band, high school jazz band, eighth grade band, and assists with the fifth, sixth, and seventh grade bands. She also leads chamber ensembles, the musical pit orchestra, and the pep band program. Prior to coming to Grandview, Jennifer taught for five years in the Logan Hocking School District in southeastern Ohio and six years at Muskego High School in southeastern Wisconsin. Under her direction, the Muskego High School Wind Ensemble performed at the 2009 and 2014 Wisconsin State Music Association Conferences. In 2012, Jennifer was one of three selected participants in the National Band Association Young Conductor Mentor Project where she studied with renowned conductors and educators Mark Camphouse, Paula Crider, and Gary Hill. An avid supporter of new works for concert band, Jennifer has participated in several commissioning projects resulting in works by composers Zachary Koors, Taras Nahirniak, Michael Sweeney, and John Mackey. She is the recipient of The Ohio State University Outstanding Graduate Associate Award (2017) and The Ohio State University Fellowship Award (2015). She is a member of NAfME, Sigma Alpha Iota, Tau Beta Sigma, Kappa Kappa Psi, Pi Kappa Lambda, and Phi Kappa Phi. She earned her Bachelor of Music Education and Trombone Performance degrees from Ohio University and Master of Music degree in Wind Conducting from The Ohio State University, where she studied with Dr. Russel Mikkelson. Jennifer and her husband, Michael, live in Pickerington with their children Molly and Julian.
Dr. Jon Noworyta, Queen City Freedom Band
Dr. Jon Noworyta is the Artistic Director and Conductor of the Queen City Freedom Band (QCFB), an ensemble he has led since its reorganization in 2018. He is also Associate Professor of Music and Director of Bands, Instrumental Activities, and Educational Outreach at the University of Indianapolis. There, he administers all aspects of the woodwind, brass, and percussion area, teaches basic and advanced conducting, courses in music education, and conducts the Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Pep Band, and opera. A versatile conductor who is equally comfortable with orchestras as well as wind and brass groups, Noworyta is the Director of the Crossroads Brass Band of Indianapolis and the former Assistant Conductor of the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra. Ensembles under his direction regularly perform at local, state, national, and international venues with notable performances having taken place the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, the Music for All National Festival, Chicago's Symphony Center, the Kennedy Center, and most notably, Carnegie Hall. Noworyta’s professional affiliations (present and past) include: NAFME, CBDNA, WASBE, NABBA, NBA, Pride Bands Alliance, GLSEN, the Conductors Guild, and the Indiana, Illinois, New York (NYSSMA) and Ohio Music Educators Associations. Noworyta holds degrees from Baldwin-Wallace College (BME), Northwestern University (MM), and the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (DMA). Additional studies in conducting have taken place in workshops at the Eastman School of Music, the New England Conservatory, and the Juilliard School.
Scioto River Band
ROBERT DAVIS, JENNIFER OLIS, and DR. JON NOWORYTA TIM NORRIS, DEBORAH HIRSCH, and MANIC MAXXIE
PROGRAM
Robert Davis, conductor
110th St. Rumba
Jon Noworyta, conductor
Sponsorship provided by John D. Kennedy in remembrance of his AIDS buddy Dr. Bob Vocca.
The Heart That Gives
Tim Norris, conductor
Fantasy on American Sailing Songs
Deborah Hirsch, conductor
Sponsorship provided by John D. Kennedy in remembrance of his AIDS buddy Steve Wilson.
Sponsorship provided by John D. Kennedy in remembrance of his AIDS buddy Martin Coe.
“To Tim Yanok, the Columbus Pride Bands, and the Conference Committee for planning this year’s Pride Bands Alliance Conference and welcoming all of us to your great city” – Derek Herrmann
Be Still and Still Moving
Jennifer Olis, conductor
Suesse, arr. Tam
Boysen, Jr.
Clare Grundman
Nicole Piunno
“This piece is dedicated to Luella Puckett, who exemplified the spirit conveyed throughout the music. Throughout almost a century, she lived through moments of chaos and stillness and was able to find a bit of one in the other. Her quiet strength continues to inspire me and I hope the strength of this piece inspires you too, after all that’s what music is all about!” – TJ Klopfstein
The Genius of Ray Charles arr. Michael Brown
Manic Maxxie, conductor
“Lisa Canjura-Clayton, always in my heart” – Sally Canjura-Clayton
Zoom Scott Boerma
Robert Davis, conductor
Sponsorship provided by John D. Kennedy and Kevin P. Bailey in remembrance of all blessed family and friends who have lost their battle with AIDS.
AYO Katahj Copley
Dana
Andrew
Scioto River Band Personnel
Piccolo
Brian Luke, The Queer Big Apple Corps
Jared M Parker, South Florida Pride Bands
Stéfan Hoïmes, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Taka Aoki, San Francisco Pride Band
Flute
Abigail Mason, Columbus Pride Bands
Al White, Queen City Freedom Band
Alfredo Fernandez, Rose City Pride Bands
Amy Dennison, Queen City Freedom Band
Betsy Smith, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Brandon M. Gray, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Christina King , Columbus Pride Bands
Devon Piskac, Columbus Pride Bands
Erica Wolf, Columbus Pride Bands
Fred Martens, Queen City Freedom Band
Hannah Sieber, Columbus Pride Bands
Jonathan Mata, Pride of San Antonio Showband
Lori Kolb, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Peter Prefontaine, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Samantha Vann, Columbus Pride Bands
Saraa Koga, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Thomas Duncan-Emmons, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Oboe
Alea Lytle, Cleveland Pride Band
Allie Fair, Columbus Pride Bands
Derek Lougee, Rose City Pride Bands
Evan Howington, Rose City Pride Bands
Gracen O’Neal, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Jarred Small, Columbus Pride Bands
Stephen J. Brown, Queen City Freedom Band
Clarinet
Alejandro Martinez, Pride of San Antonio Showband
Andrew Duncan-Emmons, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Andy Hemr, Mile High Freedom Bands
Andy Nelson, Desert Winds Freedom Band
Christina Capper, Columbus Pride Bands
Cindy Braunheim, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Claudia Batts, Triangle Pride Band
Craig Bunch, Rose City Pride Bands
Daniel Barker, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Eloise Jones, Columbus Pride Bands
Emily Maroni, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Fred Knapp, Mile High Freedom Bands
Hannah Swanson, Cleveland Pride Band
Hans Berghoff, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Henry Hamilton-Clement, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Hunter Duseau, Cleveland Pride Band
J.P. Thompson, Columbus Pride Bands
James Cordle, Columbus Pride Bands
Kathy Hennig, San Francisco Pride Band
Lorri Platek, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Samantha Searls, Queen City Freedom Band
Simon Heppell, Desert Overture
Tommy Hudnall, Charlotte Pride Band
Tucker Barton, Columbus Pride Bands
William Fu, Houston Pride Band
Bass Clarinet
Andrew Farthing, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Harvey Zuckman, Desert Winds Freedom Band
Jay Niedzielski, Columbus Pride Bands
Contrabass Clarinet
Chris Joseph, Pride of San Antonio Showband
Denny Simpson, Queen City Freedom Band
Josh Bayles, Oak Lawn Band
Bassoon
Celina Blanco, Oak Lawn Band
Langston Pierce II, Columbus Pride Bands
Melissa Reahm, Cleveland Pride Band
Nat Hickman, Columbus Pride Bands
Wayne Wise, Triangle Pride Band
Alto Saxophone
Alison Jordan, Gay Freedom Band of Los Angeles
Amy Miller, Central Florida Sounds of Freedom and Colorguard
Angel Ault, Columbus Pride Bands
Bailey Rose, Triangle Pride Band
Darryl Wylie, Columbus Pride Bands
Deed Vann, Columbus Pride Bands
Donna Jacoby-Banks, Columbus Pride Bands
Doug Campbell, Triangle Pride Band
Gene Terry, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Jess Layton, Columbus Pride Bands
Kevin Taylor, Houston Pride Band
Len Ulibarri, Mile High Freedom Bands
Rameka Jennings, Mid America Freedom Band
Teresa Nowicki, Rose City Pride Bands
Tyler Baranowski, Tampa Bay Pride Band
Tenor Saxophone
Joseph Hilderbrand, Desert Overture
Matt Akins, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Sabia Prescott, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Sean Casey, D.C.’s Different Drummers
Baritone Saxophone
Chris Johnston, Rainbow Concert Band
Jose Peralez III, Pride of San Antonio Showband
Nathan Stenner, Columbus Pride Bands
Scioto River Band Personnel
Trumpet
Amanda Pease, San Francisco Pride Band
Bradley Connlain, San Francisco Pride Band
Chloe Alibeckoff, Cleveland Pride Band
Chris Kelly, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Clark Vander Broek, Mile High Freedom Bands
Corey Stiffler, Columbus Pride Bands
Dave Szczepanik, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Dennis Hubach, Columbus Pride Bands
Diana Wedel, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Emily Dodd, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Fitz Dement, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Ginnie Padgett, San Francisco Pride Band
Jason Fulks, Columbus Pride Bands
Jeremy Kaufman, Columbus Pride Bands
Jonathan E. Law, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Julie Hoag, Columbus Pride Bands
Kenny Manns, Cleveland Pride Band
Kevin Vaselakes, Columbus Pride Bands
Lashanda Cavin, Columbus Pride Bands
Laura Joss, Cleveland Pride Band
Michael Cantillo, Oak Lawn Band
Mike Dibler,
Central Florida Sounds of Freedom and Colorguard
Robert Stuper , Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Spencer Litzenberger, Columbus Pride Bands
Horn
Alanna Durham, Cleveland Pride Band
Ashley Whitaker, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Christopher Belarde, Charlotte Pride Band
Demetrius Adams, Triangle Pride Band
Johnny Armendariz, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Kai Davis, Columbus Pride Bands
Lindy Crimmins, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Lucas Testin, Mid America Freedom Band
Martha Schrenk, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Nick Nunley, Oak Lawn Band
Patrick O’Donnel, D.C.’s Different Drummers
Rachael Zordan, Columbus Pride Bands
Tom Bogardus, Desert Overture
Tommy Posanti, Cleveland Pride Band
Zach Rude, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Trombone
Ashley Bergman, Triangle Pride Band
Betsy Cleland , Columbus Pride Bands
Chuck Wilson , Cleveland Pride Band
Colleen Popko, Philadelphia Freedom Band
David E. McBee, D.C.’s Different Drummers
David Grider Jr, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Derek Herrmann, Pride of Indy Bands, Inc
Em Justice, Columbus Pride Bands
Emily Spezia-Shwiff, Cleveland Pride Band
Ethan Pardue, Triangle Pride Band
Hannah Dunn , Atlanta Freedom Bands
Jared Foelsch , San Francisco Pride Band
Jason Jackson, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Michael Iglesias, South Florida Pride Bands
Nathan Brown, Mid America Freedom Band
Nick McWilliams, Mid America Freedom Band
Rayshaun Bennett, Houston Pride Band
Zef Hernandez-Hersh, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Bass Trombone
Branden M. Nicholson, Charlotte Pride Band
Nate Russell, Columbus Pride Bands
Euphonium
Bill Baker, Columbus Pride Bands
Chip Gue, Columbus Pride Bands
Danny Yeager, Columbus Pride Bands
Elliot Venford, Columbus Pride Bands
Jeremy Ogden, Columbus Pride Bands
Rowan Kelty, Columbus Pride Bands
Ryan Fitzpatrick, Philadelphia Freedom Band
Wes Walton, Rainbow City Performing Arts
Tuba
Charlie McDonald, Cleveland Pride Band
Chuck Varin, Mile High Freedom Bands
Cliff Norris, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Cristián Martin, Triangle Pride Band
Justin Raines, Gay Freedom Band of Los Angeles
Kory Munk, Columbus Pride Bands
Michael Livingston, Oak Lawn Band
Tony Vitale, Columbus Pride Bands
Percussion
Chelsea Dare, Triangle Pride Band
Christian Hopkins, Houston Pride Band
Chuck Moon, Oak Lawn band
Drew Marquis , Cleveland Pride Band
Ender Stoker, Columbus Pride Bands
Erin Frawley, Freedom Trail Band of Boston
Fahad AlSuwaidi, Triangle Pride Band
George Oh, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Gini Pikaart, Columbus Pride Bands
Katy Okamoto, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles
Kerry Jones, Tampa Bay Pride Band
Lane Hunter, Affiliate Pride Bands Assoc Member
Lesa Renaye Chadderdon, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Lyn Swartz, Cleveland Pride Band
Mads Andrews, Atlanta Freedom Bands
Megan Jacoby-Banks, Columbus Pride Bands
Megan Jimenez, Triangle Pride Band
Ryker Smith, Triangle Pride Band
Sally Canjura-Clayton, San Francisco Pride Band
“The Heart of it All” Concert Band Guest Artistic Directors
Jon Gomez (Phoenix, AZ)
Jon Gomez is the Artistic Director of the Arizona Wind Symphony in Phoenix, AZ and comes to us with an impressive resume of experience and accolades. Jon is currently an educational consultant and clinician for the Conn-Selmer Division of Education and serves on the Midwest Clinic Advisory Committee. Although he is not directly affiliated with a PBA ensemble, Jon was encouraged to apply by musicians who play in both the Arizona Wind Symphony and Desert Overture, and we think he will be an exceptional addition to our team.
Timothy Norris (Seattle, WA)
Timothy Norris is also an Ohio native and Artistic Director within Pride Bands Alliance. Tim currently serves as Interim Concert Band Music Director with Rainbow City Performing Arts in Seattle, Washington. He previously held the position of the Managing Artistic Director with that same organization, and led the Oak Lawn Band in Dallas, Texas from 2011-2016.
Dean McDowell (Palm Springs CA)
Dean McDowell has served as the Artistic Director of the Desert Winds Freedom Band for 17 years. Before moving to Palm Springs, Dean and his late husband Bob Montooth were among the founding leaders of the Capital Pride Band (now known as the Columbus Pride Bands). We are happy to welcome Dean home to Columbus as we host our first Pride Bands Alliance Conference.
Deborah Hirsch (Houston, TX)
Deborah Hirsch is in her eighth season as the Artistic Director of the Houston Pride Band, and previously served as the host Artistic Director for the 2021 “Bigger and Brighter” Pride Bands Alliance Conference in Houston. Deborah has 40 years of teaching experience and stays active through conducting symposia and by serving as a guest conductor and clinician for region and all-city bands around Texas.
Scott Helms (Phoenix, AZ)
Scott Helms, the founding Artistic Director of Desert Overture, is a prominent figure in LGBTQ+ advocacy and music. His contributions include directing the premiere of "A Belch Can Ruin a Wedding" and serving in leadership roles with the Lesbian-Gay Band Association, showcasing his extensive musical and artistic expertise.
Manic Maxxie (Chicago, IL)
Manic Maxxie currently serves as the Artistic Director of The Lakeside Pride Pops Ensemble in Chicago, IL. Maxxie’s drag is inspired by gender fluidity, black women, and chaotic energy. She enjoys celebrating the work of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) artists and is inspired by many of the scene’s most iconic black drag performers. She is an energetic and engaging musician who last guest conducted with the Pride Bands Alliance in 2022.
The “alluring” (The New York Times), “arresting” (Gramophone), “irresistible” (San Francisco Chronicle), and “exhilarating” (Chicago Tribune) music of Vietnamese-American composer Viet Cuong (b. 1990) has been commissioned and performed on six continents by musicians and ensembles such as the New York Philharmonic, Eighth Blackbird, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, Sō Percussion, Alarm Will Sound, Atlanta Symphony, Sandbox Percussion, Albany Symphony, PRISM Quartet, and Dallas Winds, among many others. Cuong’s music has been featured in venues such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, National Gallery of Art, and Library of Congress, and his works for wind ensemble have amassed several hundreds of performances worldwide, including at Midwest, WASBE, and CBDNA conferences.
Photos by Aaron Jay Young
In his music Cuong enjoys exploring the unexpected and whimsical, and he is often drawn to projects where he can make peculiar combinations and sounds feel enchanting or oddly satisfying. His notable works thus include concerti for tuba and dueling oboes, percussion quartets utilizing wine glasses and sandpaper, and pieces for double reed sextet, cello octet, and solo snare drum. This eclecticism extends to the variety of musical groups he writes for, and he has worked closely with ensembles ranging from middle school bands to Grammy-winning orchestras and chamber ensembles.
His wind ensemble works are widely performed, having been programmed by the world’s preeminent wind bands such as the Dallas Winds and military bands including the United States Navy Band, “President’s Own” Marine Band, “Pershing’s Own” Army Band, Army Field Band, Coast Guard Band, and Air Force Band.
These works have also been performed by the top wind ensembles at academic institutions such as the University of Texas at Austin, University of Michigan, University of North Texas, Louisiana State University, University of Miami, and Michigan State University. Passionate about bringing all these di erent facets of the contemporary music community together, his recent works include Vital Sines, a concerto for Eighth Blackbird and the United States Navy Band, and Re(new)al, a concerto for percussion quartet with a variety of ensemble accompaniments.
John and Jim
Written By: Viet Cuong
“I first heard the name Obergefell in 2015 when the case that bears it, Obergefell v. Hodges, was decided by the Supreme Court. Among the most important in history for queer Americans, this landmark ruling granted marriage rights to all same sex couples. At that moment, Obergefell was etched in history. For those writing about the law, the name would thereafter be written in italics, and today it’s as much a shorthand for the case law of marriage equality as it is the name of a man. But at its core, the case begins with two people.
John Arthur and Jim Obergefell were married in July of 2013. They had been together in a loving relationship for 22 years, and Jim was caring for John as he faced the end stages of ALS. In the last year of John’s life, they traveled on a medical plane to Maryland—one of just a handful of states where same-sex marriage was legal at the time—to be married. The marriage ceremony was conducted on board the plane before they returned home to Ohio for their last months together.
John passed away that October, and, because Ohio did not recognize their marriage as legal, Jim had to challenge the state in court to be listed as John’s surviving spouse on his death certificate. The state appealed, and the court battle worked its way through the legal system until 2015, when Jim and his team were victorious before the Supreme Court. Their efforts ensured that the relationships of same sex couples, including my marriage to my husband, would be seen as equal under the law. For that I am deeply and personally grateful.
“John and Jim” is my effort to pay tribute to the men whose love and devotion gave rise to great change, and I do so by interpolating source material from an iconic piece of traditional wedding music: Pachelbel’s Canon in D. In my youth I adored Pachelbel’s Canon, and I learned a piano arrangement of it when I was 11 years old. For months I would play the piece every morning before school, endlessly repeating its bass line while improvising melodies when the treble clef’s music ran out. Through these explorations, I discovered some basic principles of music composition, and it was through the Pachelbel that I began composing in earnest. It was also around that time that I first learned of its use in weddings, as it was the frequent soundtrack to reality TV shows chronicling the weddings of straight couples.
At the time it saddened me that music I found so beautiful was emblematic of something that, according to the law, I could never have. It feels fitting then, that in the year of my own wedding to my partner of 11 years, reframing (and perhaps reclaiming) the Pachelbel should provide the inspiration for a celebration of marriage equality.
My piece is a conversation between two alternating phrases, one of which uses melodic fragments and harmonic progressions from the Canon in D as source material. In the Canon, Pachelbel establishes a single bass line and layers it with several melodies, two of which are quite iconic but never performed simultaneously in the original. I disassembled and rewrote these to work harmoniously with one another upon the arrival of the piece’s climax, which appears after several minutes of what I think of as the music finding and piecing itself together.
Ultimately, I believe “John and Jim” sounds like both a departure and nod to the piece that first inspired me to compose. All of this takes place in a reverberant atmosphere, where notes linger and continually echo around one another, symbolic of both the persistence and impact of people like John and Jim.
Heartfelt thanks to the Pride Bands Alliance for this opportunity to tell my story and celebrate John Arthur, Jim Obergefell, and the progress that has been made in the name of love.”
2024 Pride Bands Alliance Conference
Sponsors
Elevate Columbus with Greater Columbus Arts Council
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At Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC), we're not just arts advocates, we're ARTIST advocates. Artists are the heartbeat of our creative community, and we are dedicated to empowering them with the support they need to thrive.
Investing in Artists
Through our Artists Elevated initiative, funded by our Endowment, we proudly offer $25,000 grants to mid-career artists. These grants provide crucial support for artists to advance their creative journeys, enabling them to make significant strides in their careers.
Empowering Creative Voices
At GCAC, we believe in the transformative power of creative expression. It enriches lives, fosters innovation, and builds vibrant communities. Our vision is clear: a thriving Columbus where the arts are essential to all. Every day, we work tirelessly to support and elevate the arts and cultural fabric of our city.
Join Us in Making a Difference
You can be a part of this transformative journey. Help us champion the arts and ensure that artists' voices continue to shape and elevate our society. Your support is crucial in nurturing a community where creativity flourishes.
Donate Today
Visit gcac.org/donation/artists-elevated
to make a contribution and learn more about how you can support Artists Elevated and the greater Columbus arts community.
Together, We Create. Together, We Thrive.
2024 Pride Bands Alliance Conference
Gold Sponsors
Discover the Ohio Arts Council: Celebrating Arts, Enriching Lives
Empowering Artists, Enriching Communities
Since 1965, the Ohio Arts Council (OAC) has been a pillar of support for the arts across our state. We are dedicated to funding and fostering quality arts experiences that strengthen Ohio culturally, educationally, and economically.
Supporting Individual Artists
Calling all artists! Join the Ohio Artist Registry for free to showcase your work, connect with fellow artists, and establish your online presence. Explore Individual Artist Opportunities for employment, calls, exhibitions, grants, and more tailored to support your artistic journey. Folk and traditional artists can find specialized resources and funding opportunities.
Enriching Arts Education
Arts education is vital for student success. Teaching artists can join our statewide roster for increased visibility and opportunities. The Ohio Arts Education Data Database tracks arts access and enrollment, empowering educators, parents, and policymakers. Poetry Out Loud engages high school students in a national poetry recitation competition, fostering public speaking skills and a love for literary heritage.
Investing in Public Art
The Percent for Art program, established in 1990, facilitates public art commissions and acquisitions for select state buildings, enhancing our public spaces with cultural vibrancy. Meanwhile, the Ohio Poet Laureate program celebrates and promotes the art of poetry statewide.
Our Mission and Vision
Mission: To provide leadership and support for the arts, transforming people and communities through artistic expression.
Vision: To be the voice and advocate for the arts in Ohio, enriching lives through creativity and cultural engagement.
A Legacy of Cultural Preservation
With funding from the Ohio Legislature and the National Endowment for the Arts, OAC supports artists and arts organizations through grants and services that nurture artistic growth and accessibility statewide.
Join Us in Celebrating the Arts
Discover how you can support and engage with the arts in Ohio. Visit www.oac.ohio.gov to learn more about our programs, funding opportunities, and how you can get involved. GOLD ($1,000+)
2024 Pride Bands Alliance Conference
Gold Sponsors
GOLD ($1,000+)
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to AWOL for graciously hosting the Columbus Pride Bands during their Annual Turnabout Show. AWOL’s generosity and support were instrumental in helping us raise an incredible $3,000, which was crucial towards funding “The Heart of it All” conference. AWOL’s commitment to our community and dedication to inclusivity truly make a difference. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and for providing a platform that celebrates diversity and unity. Thank you once again for your unwavering support and for making a positive impact on the lives of many through your kindness and generosity.
2024 Pride Bands Alliance Conference
Gold Sponsors
GOLD ($1,000+)
On behalf of the Columbus Pride Bands, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Land-Grant Brewing Company for their exceptional support in helping us raise approximately $2,800 towards "The Heart of it All" conference.
Your generosity and commitment to our community have made a significant impact, enabling us to further our mission of inclusivity and support within Columbus and beyond. With your contribution, we can continue to celebrate diversity through music and foster a more inclusive environment for all.
Thank you once again for your partnership and dedication to making a positive difference in our community.
2024 Pride Bands Alliance Conference
Silver Sponsors
SILVER ($750)
SILVER ($750)
2024 Pride Bands Alliance Conference
Bronze
Sponsors
BRONZE ($400)
Wells CPA, LLC
We are deeply grateful to Wells CPA, LLC for their invaluable support and expertise in assisting the Columbus Pride Bands with accounting, best practices, and nonprofit management. Your guidance has been instrumental in navigating complex financial matters with confidence and strategic clarity. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our organization and for helping us make a positive impact in the community.
BRONZE ($400)
The Columbus Pride Bands extend our sincerest thanks to Rettig Music for their generous donation towards our conference. Rettig’s contribution enabled us to purchase scores and provide loaner instruments for guest attendees flying into Ohio, ensuring they have everything they need to participate fully in "The Heart of it All" conference.
2024 Pride Bands Alliance Conference
Donors
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the project grant coordinators and businesses whose generous support made "The Heart of it All" 2024 Pride Bands Alliance Conference in Columbus, Ohio, a resounding success.
Your unwavering dedication and contributions have empowered us to create an inclusive and inspiring event that celebrates diversity, fosters community, and advocates for equality.
Together, we have forged meaningful connections, shared invaluable knowledge, and strengthened our commitment to promoting LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.
Your support has truly made a difference, and we are deeply thankful for your belief in our mission.
CONDUCTOR ($1,000+)
Anonymous
Anonymous
Leigh E. Briggs
Jeffrey Chaddock
Bill Thacker
Teresa Flemings
DIRECTOR ($500+)
Stephen and Beth Cuff
Joshua Powell
Jeff Goss
John Kennedy
Dale Masel and Roberto McClin
Connie Pillich
Stephen Sollars
Christine Swodoba
Kevin Vaselakes
SUPPORTER ($250+)
Patrick Conley & Robert Davis
Aaron and Jacob Lowry-Gilbert
Mary and Nick Weckman
Rumours
PARTNER ($100+)
Donna Jacoby-Banks
John and Gayle Bodle-Rhoades
Arnold Buck
Teri Coffey
Stephen and Michelle Davakis
Brian Finley
Tony Killian
Travis Chi Wing Lau
Elaine Puckett
Allyson Ruebusch
Bill and Twila Thacker
Becky and Larry Trover
Shane Wealti
Susan and John Climer
FRIEND ($50+)
Bob Barnes
Corey Dykstra
Brittany Fyffe
Amy Hoskinson
Katherine Langenfeld
Jeffrey Martin
Leah Musie
Thomas and Roxanne Pikaart
Michael and Louise Vaselakes
Morgan Webb
Empowering LGBTQ+ Music and Visibility
The Pride Bands Alliance stands as a vibrant testament to the power of music in fostering community, pride, and inclusivity within the LGBTQ+ spectrum. Founded with a mission to promote LGBTQ+ music, visibility, and pride, the Alliance serves as a global network for bands at every stage of development. From fostering artistic excellence to enhancing organizational capabilities, the Alliance nurtures a unique art form that resonates deeply within LGBTQ+ culture.
Annual Pride Bands Alliance Conference
At the heart of the Pride Bands Alliance is its annual conference, a pinnacle event drawing musicians from 37 member organizations worldwide. This gathering not only celebrates musical achievement but also serves as a vital assembly for organizational governance. Delegates convene to discuss financial matters, elect board members, and shape the future direction of the Alliance. It's a platform for collaboration, dialogue, and forging bonds that strengthen the fabric of LGBTQ+ band communities.
Cultural and Musical Fusion
Beyond the music, Pride Bands Alliance conferences offer a cultural immersion into iconic U.S. cities. From New York to Seattle, members perform in prestigious venues, blending local flavor with musical repertoire that reflects the host city’s spirit. These events often coincide with Pride Parades, providing members with a broader LGBTQ+ cultural experience.
Get Involved
To learn more about supporting the Pride Bands Alliance or to make a donation, visit our website or contact us directly at pridebands.org. Your generosity fuels scholarships, new music initiatives, and the future success of LGBTQ+ musicians worldwide.
David Doan President
Brandon A. Lujan Communications
Marek Szeszycki Director of Diversity Equity & Inclusion
Jason Stephens Director
Jessie Davis Vice President
Derek Herrmann Director of Conferences
Patrice Mustaafaa Director of Diversity Equity& Inclusion
Kevin Taylor Director
Amy Miller Treasurer Director of Development
Richard Cassidy Director of Special Events
Elizabeth De LosRios Director
Courtney von Bergen Director
Zef Hernandez-Hersh Secretary Director of Special Events
Len Ulibarri Director of Membership
Sam Aquino Pogue Director
Katy Okamoto Director
The band's story traces back to 1999 when a lone trumpeter, on a dare, lent his brass to the Bat-N-Rouge softball charity event, igniting the crowd with familiar tunes like "Charge" and "Eat 'em Up Raw Raw Raw" alongside the FDS Hygiene cheerleaders. Inspired by this grassroots engagement, the trumpeter and a percussionist friend organized a 13-member pep band the following year, capturing the event's spirit with infectious enthusiasm.
In June 2003, amidst the vibrant streets of downtown Columbus, 28 musicians proudly took their first steps in what would become a historic march—the inaugural Pride parade appearance of the Capital Pride Band of Columbus. This moment marked a significant milestone for a band whose journey began with humble origins and a daring spirit.
Since those early days, the band has flourished, evolving into the Columbus Pride Bands with over 100 musicians today. Beyond their iconic presence at the Pride Parade, the band enriches the cultural tapestry of Columbus with regular concert performances, including classical, big band, and contemporary pieces at esteemed venues such as the Lincoln Theater and Capitol Theater.
The band's influence extends far beyond concert halls, resonating through various community engagements. Members perform in diverse ensembles like the Pep Band during OSU football season, holiday ensembles at German Village Lights, and cater to private events ranging from drag shows to Oktoberfest, embodying the band's versatility and inclusivity.
In 2021, the band rebranded as the Columbus Pride Bands, reaffirming their commitment to unity and diversity. Their mission, supported by sponsors, donors, volunteers, and community engagement, remains steadfast—to enrich lives through music and celebrate the spirit of Columbus.
As the Columbus Pride Bands continue to march forward, their melodies echo the vibrancy and resilience of a community united in pride and harmony. Join us in supporting their mission to inspire, entertain, and foster inclusivity through the power of music.
To Donate and Support: Visit columbuspridebands.org/donate
