Bryan Christian

About Bryan

Bryan Christian has 32 years of experience directing, teaching, and conducting Texas high school bands; most recently as the Director of Bands at Vista Ridge High School since its opening in 2003 until his retirement in 2023.  His Vista Ridge Band Program was awarded the John Philip Sousa Foundation’s Sudler Shield in 2017 and the Sudler Flag of Honor in 2021.  His Wind Ensemble performed at the Midwest Clinic in 2014, placed in the top five and top ten in the TMEA Honor Band Process, and was a frequent National Winner of The Foundation for Music Education’s National Wind Band Honors.  Additionally, the Vista Ridge Marching Band competed in the Texas State Marching Contest eight times, including being named the 2018 UIL 6A State Champions.  His bands were frequent finalists in BOA Regional and Super Regional Championships and were finalists in their first BOA Grand National Championships in 2021, which led to their invitation to perform in the 2023 Tournament of Roses Parade.

Studying under Dr. John Whitwell and Gary Lewis, Mr. Christian received his BMEd from Abilene Christian University before receiving his Master of Arts Degree from Stephen F. Austin State University, again under Dr. John Whitwell.  He continues to enjoy serving as a frequent Guest Conductor, Clinician, Consultant, Mentor, and Adjudicator.  Professional memberships include Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, Phi Beta Mu, and the American Bandmasters Association.  Additionally, he is a Founding Board Member and Vice-President of the recently created “SLAM” (Servant Leadership Association for Musicians).  He believes in the importance of Culture, Relationships, Excellence, Service, and Transformative experiences through music.  

Mr. Christian has been married for 37 years to his college sweetheart, Cheryl (oboist and 7th grade Math Teacher).  They have two beautiful adult daughters, Caroline (Horn) and Cassie (Oboe), both of whom were in the Vista Ridge Ranger Band & Wind Ensemble.  He is committed to giving back to the profession which has so richly blessed his family and is grateful for the opportunity to work with the extremely talented students and faculty of the Interlochen Academy of the Arts.