Director of Bands

Mr. Taylor was graduated from James Madison University Cum Laude in 1985 with a major in Music Education and a minor in Psychology, and will graduate with a Masters in Conducting with a concentration in Music Education from George Mason University in May 2005. After having taught in the Fairfax County Public School System for two years on the elementary and middle school levels, he became the director of bands at Chantilly High School in 1987 where he currently directs the Marching Band, Symphonic Winds, Workshop Jazz and Chantilly Jazz Bands.

Under Mr. Taylor’s direction, the Chantilly Bands have received numerous awards and distinctions at festivals and from music organizations, including a Virginia Honor Band and a VMEA Blue Ribbon Music Department and a Grammy Signature School. Downbeat magazine has recognized the Chantilly Jazz as the top high school jazz band in the country on numerous occasions. In 1997 and 1998 the Chantilly Jazz earned a finalist position at the Essentially Ellington Jazz Festival at Lincoln Center in New York City where they performed at Avery Fischer Hall.  All bands from Chantilly High School have received superior or excellent ratings at District Festivals and regional competitions for twelve years. The Mighty Marching Chargers have garnered consistent superior ratings and many awards at marching band festivals and competitions including finalist band at Bands of America’s Regional Competitions and first place in music. In addition to the same successes at festivals and competitions, the Chantilly Symphonic Winds has been invited by the Virginia Music Educators Association to represent the state as a feature band at their State Convention

Mr. Taylor works as an adjudicator and clinician at various music festivals.  He has also held executive positions for the International Jazz Educator’s Association (IJEA) and works annually with the Virginia Music Educators Association as a coordinator and an administrator for the state convention. He lives in South Riding, Virginia with his wife Michelle Taylor, daughter Clara and sons Jacob and Mason.

Last updated: Wednesday, November 08, 2006