New Band Director Named for Wilton High School's Warrior Band

WILTON, CT — Illinois native Nicholas Loafman is filling a key position at Wilton High as the school’s new Band Director. He will be responsible for directing the 190-member WHS Warrior Marching Band, the Wind Ensemble, the Concert Band and the Jazz Ensembles.

Mr. Loafman, originally from Oak Park, IL, joins WHS from Mt. Vernon Township High School, in Mt. Vernon, IL, where he directed all music ensembles, including Marching Band. He earned a Bachelor of Music Education and Masters of Music Education degree, both from the University of Illinois, one of the premier music education programs in the country. During his 6 years at Mt. Vernon Township High School, Mr. Loafman also served as an adjudicator, guest conductor and conference presenter, in addition to participating in conducting clinics, director’s workshops and conductor symposiums.

“I am excited to welcome Mr. Loafman to the Wilton High School faculty and community. He is a music educator with strong credentials who has been highly successful building a program that encourages students to excel in their musical pursuits. I trust that he will continue the perennial Wilton Warrior tradition of a collaborative learning partnership with our students, staff, and families,” Principal Dr. Robert O’Donnell said.

"I am incredibly thrilled to be here, and I can't wait to get to work with the wonderful students of Wilton High School. I learned very quickly that these are some outstanding young people. As has been evident since I began the interview process, the music programs here are highly valued by the parents, WPS administration, and the community at large. I am very thankful to Mr. Gawle and Mr. Rhodes for their hard work thus far in transitioning me in, and we are looking forward to continuing the strength and legacy of the WHS Bands," Loafman said.

The first WHS Warrior Football home game is at 7 p.m. on Friday, September 9, against Fairfield Warde. The WHS Warrior Band will premiere a new half-time show, featuring the music of classic rock band Blood Sweat & Tears, with a few contemporary twists. All Warrior Band Parents, new and returning, are invited to an informational session with Mr. Loafman at the annual New Band Parent Orientation Meeting on Thursday, September 1, at 7:30 p.m. at Wilton High School.