Dr. Chris Strange is the assistant band director here at Lafayette and has been for the past four years. However, he has been helping out with the band program since 2008, teaching the jazz band.
Prior to Dr. Strange’s time at Lafayette, he attended the University of Maine, where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Music Education. From there, he attended the University of Kentucky, receiving his Master’s and Doctorate degrees. With his primary instrument being the saxophone, he played in various jazz groups in many famous locations. One of these locations being New York City’s famous jazz club, Birdland. Aside from band, Dr. Strange enjoys golfing, and spending time with his family members.
At Lafayette, the band program is split up into three different concert bands that students are placed into based on an audition recording that they submit in the springtime. Wind Symphony is the highest group, while Symphonic Band is the middle group, and Concert Band is the third group. In addition to the three concert bands, there are also two different jazz bands that students are placed into based on a separate recording submitted. Dr. Strange is the current director of the symphonic band and also teaches the top jazz band.
For Dr. Strange, getting to spend time with students and having the ability to help students succeed are his favorite parts of his job. When students are struggling with different subjects, whether it be not knowing how to play a certain measure, or not knowing how to count a rhythm, Dr. Strange has different ways to help those students.
Dr Strange told The Times that he “…sees what level the student is at…” and, “…tries different strategies depending on where the student is at…”. This method ensures that the student is learning through a method that works best for them.
Dr. Strange brings such a light to all of the kids in the band and all of the staff he works with. Sophomore Symphonic Band Student, Riley Duncan, says that Dr. Strange “…always makes funny jokes in class…,” and, “…tells very entertaining stories…”. He has awarded lots of hard work and fun to the program, and we are so lucky to have him as part of the staff here at Lafayette.
