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Blake Birmingham - Head Director

Mr. Birmingham is entering his first year as the head director and brass director at Ector Middle School. Previously Mr. Birmingham was the assistant Director of Bands at Broken Arrow Public Schools and additionally held teaching positions at: East Central University, Bixby Public Schools, Coppell ISD, Denton ISD, Fort Worth ISD, Frisco ISD, Keller ISD, Lewisville ISD, Plano ISD and more.

Mr. Birmingham attended the University of North Texas where he earned his Bachelors and Masters degrees in Euphonium performance. He was fortunate to study with two of his biggest heroes: Dr. Brian Bowman, and Dr. David Childs. While at UNT Mr. Birmingham recorded with the Wind Symphony and Symphonic Band, and performed regularly as a member of the Lone Star Wind Orchestra. He additionally served as a Graduate Teaching Fellow during his Masters degree and conducted the 7'oclock Tuba Euphonium Ensemble.

Mr. Birmingham's bands have obtained superior ratings on stage and in sight reading at both the middle school and high school levels. His students have placed in the top chairs in both the Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas All-State Bands, as well as consistently earning superior ratings in their respective solo contests.

Mr. Birmingham is a featured clinician and soloist throughout the United States. He is the winner of the 2018 Leonard Falcone Artist Euphonium international solo competition, and is proudly endorsed by Adams Brass and Brass Lab.MOMO. In his spare time Mr. Birmingham enjoys playing golf, and spending time with his cat, Hans.

Samuel Orta - Woodwind Director

Mr. Orta is excited to begin his first year as Assistant Band Director and woodwind director with the Ector Middle School Band. He brings a strong foundation in performance and education, along with a deep passion for helping students grow as musicians and individuals. Mr. Orta graduated Summa Cum Laude from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education and Flute Performance. During his time at Texas Tech, he performed with esteemed ensembles including the Symphonic Band, Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, and the Goin’ Band from Raiderland. His student teaching experience includes work in Lubbock ISD, Lubbock-Cooper ISD and Frenship ISD. A few of Mr. Orta’s notable musical experiences include performing with and conducting the Texas Tech Flute Choir at the National Flute Association Convention in Phoenix, Arizona (2023), studying and performing chamber music through the Music in the Marche program in Mondavio, Italy, and marching in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with the Goin’ Band from Raiderland (2023). He is thrilled to be a part of the Eagle Band family and looks forward to a fantastic year of music-making, learning, and growth.

Flor Leyva - Percussion Director

Flor is a dedicated percussion teacher with a passion for Music Education. She graduated with honors from The University of Texas of the Permian Basin, earning a Bachelor's degree in Music Education with a specialization in percussion.

Leyva’s journey in music education began at Seminole ISD, where she has been a transformative figure in the music department for two years. She has guided students through their musical journeys in Marching Band, UIL, Jazz band, and took Percussion Ensemble to State. Instilling in them a deep appreciation and love for percussion.

Joining Ector Middle School, Flor brings with her a vision of creating a vibrant, inclusive, and competitive band program. Her goal is to inspire and nurture young musicians, fostering a love for music that extends beyond technical proficiency. She is committed to providing a supportive learning environment where students can explore their musical potential and take it to the next level.