director of bands - austin cilone

Mr. Cilone moved to Arizona in High School. A graduate of Mountain Pointe High School, he received both his Bachelor's degree in Music Education and Master's degree in Instrumental Conducting from Northern Arizona University (NAU). 

Throughout his time at NAU, Mr. Cilone was granted incredible opportunities that included taking over the University’s athletic band program through director turnover,  auditioning consistently for the Flagstaff Symphony for six years, winning the NAU Concerto Competition, and maintaining principal roles in the Universities ensembles. 

The Marching Arts have been an integral part of Mr. Cilone’s involvement in Music Education. A true lover of everything education and marching band, Mr. Cilone has committed his time to Arizona’s premiere DCI group (where he marched), The Academy,  as a brass technician from 2015-2019. Since 2020, Mr. Cilone has served the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps in Denver, CO. Mr. Cilone is also a performing member of the Tempe Wind Ensemble, Salt River Brass, and has performed with several orchestral groups throughout the valley.

Previously Mr. Cilone worked in Mesa teaching at Alma Elementary, Johnson Elementary, Pomeroy Elementary, and as the Assistant Band Director at Dobson High School. 

Mr. Cilone is the current band director at Sandra Day O’Connor High School, and the program continues to grow under his direction. The Eagle Pride Marching Band, concert ensembles, winter guard, and indoor percussion have earned numerous awards and honors under his direction. Mr. Cilone is incredibly grateful for his booster organization, staff, and continuous school administration support.