RISD

The Rockwall Community Band was formed in 2002 with a handful of dedicated musicians. Their dream was to provide an opportunity for amateur and professional musicians in a dedicated ensemble, and to bring a quality community band to the Rockwall area.

Today, RCB has grown to 60+ members, providing a fun, social environment for musicians to practice and perform their art.  An all-volunteer organization, we are an ensemble with diverse ages, talents, and professions of brass, woodwind and percussion instrumentation.  Our concerts include a variety of music of marches, orchestral transcriptions, and traditional band pieces.

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Our Conductors

MIKE McGILL

Mr. McGill came to Rockwall in 1976 with only 19 students in the band program, grades 7-12.  During his time, the band program in Rockwall has grown to include over 1000 students. The Rockwall High School Band  accumulated numerous UIL Sweepstakes Awards, numerous 1st Divisions, participating in the UIL State Marching Contests, and earning Outstanding Band awards in Tennessee, Colorado, New York, and Florida.  In addition, his jazz bands consistently received top awards both locally and nationally.

Mr. McGill received his Bachelors degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and received his Masters degree from East Texas State University.  Since 2002, Mr. McGill has served as Head Conductor of the Rockwall Community Band. Mr. McGill retired from the Rockwall I.S.D. in 2011, and currently works with different school districts as a Woodwind Instructor and clinician. He has served on the Board of Rockwall Musicfest, and has conducted with the Rockwall Summer Musicals.  Mr. McGill remains active in his church music programs, and in community events.

 

LEWIS PHELPS

Mr. Phelps is a member of the Texas Bandmaster Association, member of the National Band Association, and a Life Member of the Phi Mu Alpha Fraternity.  He has served 7 years on the State Board for Texas Music Educators, and served as clinician for various high school bands.  He achieved 21 years of consecutive first division ratings with numerous Sweepstakes awards and participated in numerous State Marching Contests.  His bands have served as Musical Ambassadors for the Governor of Texas, to the states of Florida, Louisiana, Missouri, Colorado, and Tennessee.  His band participated in the Inaugural Parade for Texas Governor and also performed music for the reception for Lady Bird Johnson.

Mr. Phelps received his Bachelors and Masters degrees in Music Education from North Texas State University.  He served in the United States Army and is a Vietnam Veteran, receiving the Meritorious Service Award.  Since 2003, he has served as an Associate Conductor for the Rockwall Community Band and is enjoying retirement working at a local golf course.