The departure of Chris Rice, previous band director, left a void in the leadership of the band program. While Rice?s successor was unknown last spring, the administration began the search for another director and James Loomis seemed to answer their prayers.
?My vision for the school?s program is to reinvigorate each band student with pride,? Loomis said. ?Students who have pride in their program will be role models for others and our Christian witness will be seen not just at school, but in our community.?
Beyond the student?s musical development, Loomis hopes to instill confidence. Loomis believes confidence in musical abilities enables students to exceed their personal limitations.
?Students need to know that their leader is behind them 100% by guiding, supporting and encouraging them the whole way,? Loomis said. ?From the first day I met with FCS students, I tried to assure them of my commitment to their success.?
Loomis has experience with all orchestral and band instruments, but his primary instrument is the trumpet. In addition to teaching, he is also a member of the San Joaquin Chorale.
?Many people can be credited with helping me develop a passion for music,” Loomis said. “Notable people in my life were my junior high band director, Tim Bonnar, my college trumpet professor, Wayne Huber, and my college choir director, Roy Klassen. Specifically, Dr. Klassen helped me see the fun side of music while always achieving the highest level of musicality possible.?
Loomis attended Fresno Pacific University (’05) along with fellow friend and music major Aaron Bryan, campus choir director. After graduating, Loomis taught at Clovis High, Rafer Johnson junior high, Walter Stiern Middle School and, most recently, taught at Chipman Junior High in Bakersfield.
?I already knew a lot about the school (FCS) when Mr. Bryan contacted me about the (job) opening,? Loomis said. ?I met with Mr. (Principal Gary) Schultz and Mr. (Superintendent Tim) Wilkins came and watched me teach in Bakersfield.?
Besides brining out his own musicality and creativity by playing jazz, Loomis enjoys listening to French composer Claude Debussy.
?My passion and love for music has been with me throughout my life,? Loomis said. ?A job in music was always important to me, but the chance to change students? lives in a positive way led me to teaching.?
The band is currently perfecting their pep-band music and march for the upcoming football games and parades.
?He is amazing and nice; he reminds me of Mr. (Paul) McEntee,? Haley Olson, ’09, said. ?He knows a lot about tuning and harmony.?
Loomis is married to Jennifer in 2006, who teaches math at Central East High School. Loomis, a lifelong San Francisco Giants fan, also enjoys working with computers and creating websites.
?I have always driven myself to excellence, never mediocrity,? Loomis said. ?With hard work and a focus on the Lord, you can do anything.?
Despite the low number of students in band, Loomis remains focused on fulfilling his responsibility as a teacher and leader.
?I believe that God has brought me to FCHS,” Loomis said. “He led me to work at Peoples Church while in college and introduced me to the people I now consider close friends. I have very high expectations for myself, and I am confident that the parents and students, once they?ve had the chance to meet me and get to know my style, will agree that God knew what he was doing when he brought me here.?
