Focus On Schools

Thompson ‘Excited’ To Lead JHS Marching Band

When Ethan Thompson joined his school band as a fourth-grade student in northern New Jersey, he discovered more than an interest in music. He found a community -- and, eventually, a calling.

Now, as Jamestown High School's new marching band director and music teacher, Thompson is excited to create those same opportunities for a new generation of students while building upon the program's proud tradition.

"Throughout my journey, marching band has always been one of my greatest passions because it brings together music, movement, teamwork, leadership, and personal growth," Thompson said. "I’m excited to now have the opportunity to help lead that experience here at Jamestown."

A native of Wayne, New Jersey, Thompson credits his experience as a member of the Wayne Hills Patriot Marching Band in solidifying his passion for marching band and inspiring him to pursue a career in music education at SUNY Fredonia. At Fredonia, he co-founded the university's Video Game Orchestra and helped revive its chapter of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, serving as the chapter's president.

After teaching elementary music for one year back in New Jersey, a friend shared with him the opening in Jamestown. With support from the Jamestown Public Schools Board of Education and the community, the role was expanded into a full-time hybrid position combining classroom teaching with leadership of the marching band program.

"I had just moved back home, but I was willing to take the chance and learn about the program," Thompson said. "After a little research and talking with some staff, I realized Jamestown has a long tradition of excellence and tremendous community support for its music programs. I saw an opportunity to become part of something much bigger than myself."

As he takes the reins of the marching band, Thompson hopes to honor that tradition while creating a culture centered on hard work, leadership, accountability, and pride.

"I've always wanted to find a place where I could build relationships with students and help create a culture that values hard work, leadership, accountability, and pride," he said. "Music has the unique ability to teach lessons that extend far beyond the classroom, and I saw this as a place where I could invest in students for years to come."

Developing student leaders will be one of Thompson's primary goals as he begins guiding the program. While strong performances will remain an important measure of the band's progress, he believes its greatest impact can be found in the lessons students learn by working together and overcoming challenges.

"I’m especially excited about helping students grow as leaders," Thompson said. "Of course, we all want to perform at a high level, but I believe some of the most meaningful lessons students learn come from working together and overcoming challenges. If we can build great people first, great performances will naturally follow."

Thompson and the band are now preparing their 2026 field show, "Paint It Black.

"This year’s show is a dramatic, western-inspired show that tells the story of outlaws in a lawless frontier through powerful music and visual storytelling," Thompson said. "The students have truly embraced the theme, and we’re excited to bring the performance to life throughout the season."

The band's immediate focus will be building strong fundamentals during summer rehearsals and "Intensive Week" while continuing to develop its leadership and ensemble culture. Throughout the fall, the marching band will once again perform at home football games and travel to several competitions within the Lakeshore Marching Band Association across Erie County and Western New York.

The band will also welcome participating programs to Strider Field for Jamestown's annual Fall Festival on Saturday, Sept. 26.

As his first season approaches, Thompson said he is grateful for the welcome he has received from Jamestown's students, families, alumni, volunteers, staff, and community members.

"My goal is to build on the strong foundation that’s already here while helping our students reach their full potential," Thompson said. "I want every student to leave this program with unforgettable memories, lasting friendships, and the confidence that comes from working hard toward a common goal. If we can develop great people first, I truly believe great musical success will follow."

"I’m incredibly excited for the future of the Jamestown Marching Band, and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together this season."