At the monthly school board meeting in July, it was announced that Mr. Lance Jones was selected as the new Band Director for West Branch. Mr. Jones has now been working with the Band for the past couple of months to produce their Halftime show based off of the movies that John Williams has composed for. The band will be performing “Superman Theme”  “Jurassic Park/Lost World Theme” and “Star Wars Theme”.

Mr. Jones is a 2005 graduate from West Branch Area High School. He was under the direction of Mr. Bill Gabel while enrolled as a Warrior. He received his Bachelor Degree in Music Education, with a concentration in percussion, from Clarion University and he has an M.M. (Masters of Music) in Wind Conducting from Messiah College. “I had a great experience at West Branch and was fortunate to receive a tremendous music education. I am honored to have the opportunity to contribute to the program that gave me so much as a student. Music has always been the best way I know to serve and connect with others.  I simply cannot imagine doing anything else.”

Mr. Jones has a steady plan on how to rebuild the Music Program. “The first priority is to establish a sense of stability and consistency within the program. We are also working on establishing some workshops and performances in which our bands can participate or attend, both within and outside of our district,” said Jones.

Mr. Jones worked at Northern Cambria for 9 years before coming to West Branch. Jones worked with some prolific music educators and composers, such as Samuel Hazo, Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser, Dr. Peter Boonshaft, and Robert Sheldon.

He was a Professional Development Chair for PMEA (Pennsylvania Music Educators Association), published articles in PMEA News, and has been a clinician at two state music education conferences. The most recent guest conducting has been at the Clearfield County Band Festival in 2018.