This past summer, the Plano Band welcomed Natalie Wagner and Jacob Hord, who replaced directors Jacob Diewald and Michael Hernandez.
Mrs. Wagner
Wagner graduated from Whitworth University in Washington with a bachelor’s degree in music education, secondary education and jazz performance. In addition, she earned her master’s degree in jazz studies from UNT. She previously taught in high school jazz band programs in Washington.
“I didn’t really know anything about the Plano Band, but the more stuff I looked up and the more I heard about the program, I was very excited to work here. the way the teachers talked about the band was very inspiring,” Wagner said.
“I feel like in order to be successful in the professional world, you have to not only be a good musician, but also be on time, be organized and be prepared. I have been in the same position as these students and would like for them to be able to learn the lessons I had much later in life.”
Junior saxophonist Lukas Hinkle said he appreciates her dedication to make a better future for them as musicians.
“Mrs. Wagner is an amazing teacher,” Hinkle commented, “time and time again, she has expressed to us how jazz is more than just music. That it’s a language, and a way for people to express themselves.”
Mr. Hord
Hord earned both his bachelor’s degree from SMU and his master’s from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in percussion performance. Before joining Plano, he taught private lessons in Plano ISD and worked as a percussion technician for Plano East.
“I already know a lot about the band culture around here in North Texas, having been a member of the Plano East Band and being a tech there, but it’s very different now,” Hord said, “As a director, I get to really connect deeply with the students more than simply being a guy showing up every day for only thirty minutes or so. In addition, despite being a few miles away from each other, Plano Band and Plano East Band are vastly different from each other, so I had a lot to learn these first few weeks.”
“In addition, I feel like as the season has gone on, I’ve been able to connect with our marching band show,” Hord says, “when I first arrived, the show was already written and camp had already started, so it meant nothing to me. Now that I’ve helped them rehearse and perform, it’s really become a big part of me now to the point where every time I go to sleep, I just hear the music in my head!”
Despite the departure of longtime director Hernandez, who served the program since 1992, the percussion members have quickly warmed up to Hord. Senior bass drummer Matt Salter comments on his teaching style. “I think he has had a very positive impact on the drumline, because he has found ways to connect with us while also taking his job seriously,” Salter said, “he’s serious when he needs to be, and he’s also funny when he needs to be.”
Moving Forward
With new perspectives and strong connections to their students, both Wagner and Hord are already shaping the next chapter of the Plano Band to shine bright.
