Mr. Tyrell James, a dedicated educator and accomplished musician hailing from Sumter, South Carolina. Mr. James is a graduate of Lakewood High School and has pursued an extensive education in music and leadership from the University of South Carolina, South Carolina State University and Arkansas State University. Mr. James earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education, and a Master's degree in Educational Leadership and Administration.

Mr. James has an impressive history as a performer and educator in the field of music. He is a former member of the prestigious Carolina Crown Drum and Bugle Corps, where he showcased his talent and commitment to excellence. His achievements include being a Drum Corps International (DCI) finalist and earning the accolade of world champion in Individual and Ensemble competition. He is currently a member of the Carolina Crown Alumni Association.

With over two decades of experience, Mr. James has taught various Drum and Bugle Corps and has made significant contributions to band and other performing art programs throughout South Carolina. His expertise has made him a sought-after clinician, contributing to many prominent band programs. Furthermore, he has adjudicated a multitude of marching and concert band competitions, sharing his knowledge and passion for music with students and fellow educators alike.

Mr. Tyrell James is a respected figure in the music education community, known for his dedication to fostering student growth and encouraging musical excellence.

Zachary Kusztos is a percussionist, and educator from upstate South Carolina. 

He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina where he studied with Dr. Scott Herring and earned a Bachelor’s of Music in Percussion Performance. During this time he played in the USC Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Opera Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, and the Palmetto Pans Steel Band. 

After graduating from USC, he also earned Master’s of Music in Contemporary Percussion Performance from the University of Miami while studying with Joseph Petrasek and Svetoslav Stoyanov and was an active member of the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Winds, Symphony Orchestra, and Percussion Ensemble. 

As a performer, Zachary has had a wide assortment of opportunities from performing on field at Hard Rock Stadium to performing concerts with the New World Symphony. At PASIC 2021 he performed with USC’s percussion ensemble, in Tom Burritt’s masterclass “Finding Your Innate Musicianship,” and won first place in the I&E solo keyboard competition in the collegiate division. 

As an educator, Zachary has spent many seasons working with marching bands in the midlands, and is currently the Assistant Band Director at Irmo High School.