Celebration K-8
Band Program

Todd Leighton has been a music educator in the State of Florida since 1989. He has served as a clinician, arranger, composer, and Director for many successful band programs.  Most recently, Mr. Leighton was Director of Bands at Davenport High School where he served as its inaugural Director. Under his Direction, the Wind Ensemble received a Superior Rating and Best in Class at Festival Disney. The Wind Ensemble also received straight superior ratings at the FBA District Concert MPA.  

 

From 2012 to 2021, Mr. Leighton was a Director at the Tarpon Springs Leadership Conservatory for the Arts, where the music program continues to flourish and grow.  The Tarpon Springs Outdoor Performance Ensemble was crowned the 2014 Bands of America National Champions, plus they participated in the 2013 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.  The Tarpon Springs Leadership Conservatory for the Arts was also given the 2015-2016 NBA Program of Excellence Award.  All Performing Ensembles consistently received Superior Ratings at all District and State FBA events.

 

From 2009 to 2011, Mr. Leighton was the Director of Bands at Paul J. Hagerty High School in Oviedo, Florida.  While at Hagerty, all performing ensembles consistently received Superior Ratings at District and State Festivals.  The Percussion Ensemble performed at the PAS Florida Day of Percussion and the Hagerty Marching Band was named the 2011 FMBC 5A State Champion.  Mr. Leighton was also given the National Band Association Certificate of Merit for Marching Excellence.  

 

Prior to Hagerty High School, Mr. Leighton spent 9 years as the Director of Bands at Lake Howell High School in Winter Park, Florida, where he organized and taught the Silver Regiment Marching Band, Jazz Band, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Percussion Ensembles, Disney Holiday Brass, Dance Team, AP Music Theory, and Imagination Winter Guard.  The Lake Howell Band Program received Superior Ratings at District and State Festivals, in addition to many awards and accolades.  Mr. Leighton also received the Principal's Award, Silver Scholar Award, and the Orlando Sentinel Teacher of the Week.

 

Mr. Leighton is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Music Education degree. He performed in the Founders of Freedom Fife and Drum Corps and Student Musician Programs at Walt Disney World, and has been a private percussion teacher for many years.  Mr. Leighton is a proud educational artist for Vic Firth and Remo.

 

Mr. Leighton is married to his wonderful wife, Melissa and resides in Lake Wales, Florida with his family.