Colts Announce Ben Pyles To Lead Percussion Program

August 30, 2016

The Colts are pleased to introduce Benjamin Pyles as percussion caption head and battery arranger. Ben is currently the director of athletic percussion at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Back with the Colts design team arranging the front ensemble book is David Nelson. Dave is director of bands at Lake Central High School in St. John, Indiana. Both arrangers have worked with returning Program Coordinator Howard Weinstein on prior projects, and they are excited to build a dynamic percussion program under his leadership.

"I could not be more thrilled for the Colts to add Ben Pyles to our 2017 design and instructional team, said Howard. "Having had the opportunity to work with Ben on some pageantry arts projects in the past, I know his passion, his drive and quest for excellence. Ben brings an incredibly fresh approach to percussion design, along with a strong and comprehensive educational plan that will propel the Colts percussion program to the next level."

"We feel very fortunate to have landed Ben for these roles," said Colts Director Vicki MacFarlane. "He has the skills, experience and heart to put our percussion program on a solid path for years to come."

"Working in any capacity with a World Class drum and bugle corps is an absolute honor," said Ben. "I'm extremely humbled and grateful for the opportunity to work with some of the most talented designers, teachers, and performance the activity has to offer! The Colts organization has a very bright future ahead of them and I'm excited to be a small part of their success for the 2017 season!"

Fill out an INFORMATION REQUEST to receive an audition packet for the instrument of your choice. If you have already submitted an Information Request for the 2017 season, an auction packet will be emailed to you very soon.

Visit the Colts website regularly to find out additional information regarding audition camps, travel details, 2017 general membership information, and more!

BIO
Benjamin Pyles is currently the director of athletic percussion at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Previously, Ben majored in music education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Lamar University, with a primary focus in percussion. His most intensive studies came under the direction of Chris Hestin, Mike Macintosh, Travis Fife, and Michael Kingan. Ben has several years of World Class performing, and instructional experience, including the Bluecoats from Canton, Ohio; Crossmen from San Antonio, Texas; Monarch Independent from Houston, Texas; Glassmen from Toledo, Ohio; and Spirit of Atlanta from Atlanta, Georgia. Along with teaching, Ben is also an active arranger and composer for multiple Indoor and outdoor ensembles across the country. He is endorsed by Sabian Cymbals and Innovative Percussion.

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