This year, McPherson welcomes new band director Austin Russell.  After graduating from Kansas State University, Mr. Russell taught middle school band in Great Bend. Russell is currently working alongside band director, Kyle Unruh, to continue a great band program for our school district.

Born and raised right here in McPherson to a very musical family, Russell was influenced by music from a very young age. Starting on the trumpet, he figured out music was what he was supposed to do in life.  When asked why he came back to McPherson, Russell responded, “It’s good to be back home. Bullpups for life, duh.”

Russell is looking forward to have a great concert band season this year. Excited by the spirit of our band students here he says, “We had a difficult marching show to prepare and they have stepped up to the plate. The students here have all-around great character, and I’m grateful to be able to teach people like them.”