DIRECTORS

Matthew Garrison
Director of Bands
matthew.garrison@leanderisd.org
Mr. Garrison is a native Texan, and Austinite. He earned his degree in Music Education from Texas Tech University, graduating Magna Cum Laude. During his time at Texas Tech, he studied advanced wind-band conducting under Dr. Eric Allen and graduate studies in Wind Literature with Dr. Sarah McKoin. During his studies he performed with the Carolina Crown Drum and Bugle Corps for three years, contributing to two Jim Ott High Brass awards and a John Brazale High Visual award.
Mr. Garrison was previously the Director of Bands at Connally High School. Prior to this role, he spent five years as the Assistant Band Director at Lehman High School. At Lehman, he directed the Marching Band and Non-Varsity Band, coordinated the leadership team, and re-established the Jazz bands. Under his leadership, the marching band consistently reached finalist status, and his ensembles received Division One ratings. In 2022, his ensemble was honored as a Citation of Excellence Commended Winner.
From 2015 to 2017, Mr. Garrison served as the Assistant Director of Bands at David Crockett High School. There, he led the Marching Band, Symphonic Band, leadership team, and Colorguard. His guidance resulted in UIL Division One Ratings for both the Marching Band and Symphonic Band and contributed to the program's growth.
Between 2013 and 2015, Mr. Garrison played a pivotal role in the Guardians Drum and Bugle Corps, initially serving as the Brass and Visual Caption Heads in their inaugural year, then as the Visual Caption Head in 2014, and finally as the Assistant Director in 2015.
Outside of band directing, Mr. Garrison is a music transcriptionist and visual designer. In his personal time, he enjoys running, walking his dog Walter, and hiking and traveling with his wife Lauren. Together, they aspire to visit every U.S. National Park.
Daniel Wainright
Percussion Director
daniel.wainright@leanderisd.org
Daniel Wainright is excited about coming back home to Glenn this year in the role as Assistant Band Director - Percussion Specialist. He was a private lesson instructor at Danielson when it opened up in 2020 and taught at both DMS and Glenn until 2022 when he went to Troy ISD to become Percussion Director for the district.
In that recent role with Troy, he honed his skills in music education and leadership. These years have been formative to a pattern of excellence in marching band, percussion ensembles, jazz band, concert ensembles, and percussion solos all at the state level. This experience has prepared him to effectively manage and inspire students in a dynamic learning environment. Additionally, his strengths lie in creating a competitive yet fun learning atmosphere that fosters musical growth among students.
Daniel marched two seasons of DCI at Memphis Sound in 2006 and Southwind in 2007 both on marimba. He has an extensive background in drumset performance and life as a touring musician and musical director. His expertise also includes a wide range of technical and creative skills such as music technology, and sound engineering.
Daniel holds a degree in Music Education from Tennessee Technological University.