About David L. Wells
David L. Wells (b. 1952), a native of Grand Rapids, David grew up in a musical family where his father, Ralph, was a band director in the Grand Rapids Public Schools and was responsible for starting David on trombone. David received his Bachelor’s of Music Education degree from Western Michigan University in 1974 and his Master’s in the Art of Teaching from Calvin College in 1987.
David Wells taught middle school band for the Northview Public Schools from 1974 until his retirement in 2007. David served as the primary Director of Bands at Highlands Middle School for 5th & 6th grade students. He worked with Crossroads Middle School 7th & 8th grade concert and jazz bands, and served as the Assistant Director of Bands at Northview High School for 9th through 12th grade students.
David Wells arranged music for Northview High School marching band from 1980 to 2000.
He has been a private instructor for trombones, baritones and tubas for over 50 years. He currently serves as a substitute teacher for area band directors and the leader of several groups including the River City Jazz Ensemble (big band), the River Rogues Jazz Band (Dixieland band), and the Northview Community Band (concert band, of which he founded, directed, and recently retired from after 25 years).
David is a published composer of music for concert bands, sacred choirs, and small chamber groups. Commissions include works for Wyoming Park High School, Harrison OH 8th Grade Band, MSBOA District 6 All Star Band, West Michigan Flute Association, Grand Rapids Symphonic Band, MSBOA District 10 All Star Band, Kentwood MI Bands, Park Church Choir Grand Rapids MI.
David married Cheryl Wood ( BME from WMU, and flute teacher) in 1974. They have two sons, Mark and Greg Wells, who are currently band directors in the Greater Grand Rapids area. He and his wife, Cheryl, have been members of their church choir since joining in 1974 and enjoy spoiling all six grand children.
Acknowledgements
Throughout David L. Wells’ extensive musical career, he has had the opportunity to perform as a soloist and direct musical ensembles both in and out of the State of Michigan. Below are just some of them.
Countless
Success Stories
17
Courses
9742
Happy Students
50
Years Experience
Organizations
David L. Wells has played numerous administrative roles in musical organizations in West Michigan.
MSBOA
Michigan School Band & Orchestra Association
Member since 1974, Vice President ofJazz Activities for District 10 from 1990 to 1996.
ITA
David L. Wells has been a member of the International Trombone Association since 1990.
MMC
Tutoring Opportunities
Michigan Music Conference presenter in 2012 & 2021. Featuring 2021 Presentation “Tone and Tonguing for Band.”
CONTACT DAVID L. WELLS
Whether you are looking to commission a work for your ensemble, looking to hire David as a clinician for your or book one of his ensemble for an event, we encourage you to to connect with us!