Cottonwood Community Band

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Blackwell, a longtime music educator and Director of Bands and Orchestra at Bradshaw Mountain High School in Prescott Valley, brings more than two decades of teaching, performance, and ensemble leadership experience to the community ensemble.

Since beginning his career in music education in 2004, Blackwell has served as a brass coach, assistant band director, and director of bands, focusing on ensemble excellence, student growth, and meaningful performance experiences. Originally from Monrovia, California, he began performing at an early age and appeared with the Tournament of Roses Honor Band from 2004 to 2007.

After relocating to Arizona in 2009, Blackwell studied Tuba Performance and Music Education at Pima Community College before transferring to Arizona State University, where he pursued a Bachelor of Music Education and studied with Dr. Deanna Swoboda and Dr. Margaret Schmidt. His experience with the Arizona State University Sun Devil Marching Band under James “HUD” Hudson helped shape his belief in building community through music.

“Music has the power to bring people together, strengthen community, and inspire performers of all ages,” Blackwell said. “I am honored to join the Cottonwood Community Band and look forward to making music with the talented musicians of the Verde Valley.”

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Cottonwood Community Band welcomes Philip Blackwell to the podium. He can be contacted at cottonwoodcommunityband@gmail.com.

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