First dynamic duo Jed Blodgett and Fiona McGowan, then Bradley Sampson, then the era of John VanWagoner, and lastly Jared Herald marks the 4th and most recent passing of Band Director to grace the Music hall.

The past four years have been a constant state of change as JD music experiences new initiatives and dying programs. Director and student alike reflect on how these shifts have impacted their participation and enthusiasm within JD’s Music Department and on the state the band has been left in after being tossed from teacher to teacher.

Former band director and now current Choir director John VanWagoner has found his time transitioning and teaching at Juan Diego “super fun and worthwhile,” as he also “finds the administration, staff, and students fantastic as they have really made my time here amazing.” One of his favorite aspects of teaching here has been “doing videos for the various liturgical seasons.” 

VanWagoner preceded second-era band director Bradley Sampson who was the last director to take Juan Diego Marching Band to the Bands of America competition in St. George, Utah. Since then, the Marching Band has glimpsed its deathbed as VanWagoner struggled to keep the failing band alive. 

Still, VanWagoner has made some impactful changes, one is changing the sound and genre of music performed. 

“We have changed the flavor of the music from traditional-sounding music to more contemporary gospel and blues genre.  I end up arranging and composing many of the songs which can be time-consuming but worth it.” 

The Music Department then dabbled in Indoor drumline and again revived the Marching Band with fourth-era Band Director Jared Herald. Yet, Juan Diego’s Marching Band/music department is still seeing hard times as VanWagoner recounts the biggest, everlasting issue plaguing the Music Department.

“It’s always the same, we need more students in our classes. We are experiencing a drought of our own in most fine arts classes due to the JD student population.” 

The music department has struggled with attendance for the past few years, which VanWagoner has attempted to remedy through a variety of ways. 

“As usual, I will be out in the halls asking people to join the choir. I know there is a ton of hidden talent in the school so my goal is to encourage all students to take a music class. It’s more fun than people may think.”

Students participating in the band program have arguably been the most affected by the constantly changing climate of the Juan Diego Music Department. Senior Kelsey Poulsen, who has been a part of the band program and in the Marching Band since her freshman year, reflects on her time and on how each director affected her experience.