Director's Page

BAND DIRECTOR - Ken Smith

Ken Smith has been teaching music for over three decades and is currently Director of Bands at Jesse Bethel High School in Vallejo. His band programs at Hogan and Jesse Bethel High Schools over the last twenty-plus years have included highly successful percussion units that consistently have finished at or near the top of their competitive divisions, thanks mostly to the creative, innovative and energetic leadership of their alumni. Mr. Smith has arranged the music for the front ensemble for many of the drumline shows over the years, and still performs on woodwinds and as a jazz bassist as much as his band schedule will allow. He holds a Bachelors degree in music and a Masters in Education from Stanford University.

Message from our Band Director:

I have one of the best jobs in the nation! Through the years we have been fortunate to have some of the brightest and most talented students in the city as a part of our band program.

Our students have been awarded prestigious scholarships from various colleges, corporations and civic organizations. We have finalist and winners in both academic and musical competitions, routinely our students are selected to participate in ceremonies, festivals and parades throughout the community and beyond. Collectively, we continue to receive "Superior" ratings at local and national competitions.

I am grateful for the opportunity to share my gift of music with each of you. A special "Thank You" to our Band Boosters for making this program move smoothly and to our Principal, Mr. Arreguin, Faculty and Staff for "seeing the vision" and working with us to make it such an enjoyable experience for our kids.