Brett

Brett Nelson serves as the Director of Bands at Ronald Reagan High School in San Antonio, part of the North East Independent School District. He conducts both the nationally recognized Reagan Marching Band and the Wind Ensemble while overseeing all aspects of the band program. Under his leadership, Reagan ensembles have earned distinctions including UIL 6A State Marching Finalist, Bands of America (BOA) Grand Nationals, Super Regional, and Regional Finalist; BOA Class and Regional Champion; and UIL Sweepstakes Award. He also co-directs the Reagan Symphony Orchestra, which has been invited to perform at the 2025 Midwest Clinic.

Prior to his tenure at Reagan, Mr. Nelson served as Director of Bands at Friendswood High School. During his leadership, the Friendswood Mustang Marching Band became a multiple-time finalist in the UIL 5A State Marching Contest, a finalist at BOA Regional Championships, and a recipient of multiple BOA Class Championships. The Friendswood Concert Bands earned national acclaim as three-time National Winners in the Mark of Excellence Wind Band Honors Project, including a Medal of Distinction in 2021. Additionally, the Friendswood Wind Ensemble placed third in the 2023 Texas Music Educators Association 5A State Honor Band Contest.

Mr. Nelson previously served as Director of Bands at Jersey Village High School in Houston from 2010 to 2019. Under his direction, the program achieved historic success, including the school's first appearance at the UIL 6A State Marching Contest. His ensembles were named National Winners in the Mark of Excellence Wind Band Honors Project, advanced as TMEA Area Honor Band Finalists, and consistently earned the UIL Sweepstakes Award.

Mr. Nelson holds both education and performance degrees from Texas State University. His professional growth has been shaped by mentorships with many of the field’s most respected educators and performers, including Raymond Crisara, Dr. Keith Winking, Beth Bronk, Tom Bennett, Denis Kidwell, Eddie Green, Greg Dick, Tye Ann Payne, Marion West, Dr. Mary Ellen Cavitt, and Ron Morrison. He maintains active professional memberships in TMEA, TBA, TMAA, and TFAA.

Brett and his wife, Courtney, are the proud parents of two children, Madison and Eli.