YOUR INSTRUCTORS

Zach Santos is the owner of Santos Creative Services and Standing O Marching. These companies focus on providing comprehensive services for the marching arts. He is also co-owner of The Band Blueprint, which is a virtual curriculum company that provides education for directors to elevate their marching programs.

Prior to founding his company, Zach taught for six years at Vista Ridge High School in Cedar Park, Texas. During his tenure, the Vista Ridge band earned numerous accolades, including the 2018 UIL 6A State Marching Band Championship, a finalist position at the 2021 BOA Grand Nationals, and an invitation to perform in the 2023 Rose Parade. His concert ensembles consistently received sweepstakes awards, and he conducted the Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Symphony. Zach has presented at the Texas Bandmasters Association Convention, Texas Music Educators Association Convention, and the Midwest Clinic.

Throughout his career, he has held many positions, including serving as program coordinator for the Guardians, visual instructor for the Blue Knights, Phantom Regiment, and Rhythmic Force, as well as leading clinics for System Blue and Blue Knights Experience Camps. He is also the co-founder of the “Driven by Drum Corps” scholarship, which supports students aspiring to participate in DCI and desire to have a career in the marching arts.

Zach’s performance background includes marching with the Guardians (2013), Crossmen (2014), Blue Knights (2015-2016), and the Blue Devils (2017), where he was part of the world championship winning ensemble. Zach also facilitates SASI leadership camps, where he mentors students nationwide in leadership development.

Zach holds a Bachelor of Music Studies degree from the University of Texas at Austin, where he also earned a trumpet performance certificate and a business foundations certificate from the McCombs School of Business. He also earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Western Governors University. Zach continues to perform as a trumpet player with the Cedar Park Winds, local churches, and the Austin Brass Collective. He resides in Leander, Texas with his wife, Kendall, their son, Ryder, and their dog, Hudson.