Cardiff Junior High
Meet the staff!
Daniel Zavala
Mr. Zavala is in his 13th year as the Head Band Director at Cardiff Junior High School and 17th year in education. Mr. Zavala is a 2008 cum lade graduate of the University of Houston, where he holds a Bachelor of Music Education Degree. He also holds a Masters of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Texas-Arlington. Mr. Zavala instructs all beginner Woodwind classes, as well as the Honors and Concert Bands.
Originally from Watauga, TX, Mr. Zavala started his band career playing Bassoon in the award winning Haltom High School Band. He also performed as a percussionist throughout High School and on Mellophone in the Spirit of Houston Cougar Marching Band. During his time at the University of Houston, Mr. Zavala performed in the Wind Ensemble under the direction of Mr. Tom Bennett with frequent mentorship from Eddie Green.
Prior to teaching at Cardiff, Mr. Zavala taught in the Spring Independent School District and Humble ISD.
As an assistant band director, Mr. Zavala had the privilege of teaching the 2011 Claughton Middle School Band in Spring ISD as they were invited to perform at the 65th Annual Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago, Illinois.
When not at CJH, Mr. Zavala enjoys spending time with his wife Lauren, their son Alden, their daughters Audrey, and Adley.
Dan Brodt
Mr. Brodt is in his 17th year as the Assistant Band Director at Cardiff Junior High. He currently instructs all beginner brass classes, Beginner Percussion as well as the Symphonic band. In addition to his role as a band director, Mr. Brodt is also the fine arts department chair at Cardiff Junior High. Mr. Brodt is a graduate of Oklahoma City University, and holds a Master’s degree from the University of Houston.
Mr. Brodt was named the CJH Teacher of the Year for the 2023-24 school year.
Mr. Brodt regularly performs on trumpet in many local ensembles.
Events Calendar
Private Lesson Information
Music private lessons play a vital role in a student's musical development. They offer personalized instruction tailored to the student's unique needs, allowing for a more focused approach to learning. In a private lesson setting, instructors can identify specific areas for improvement, whether in technique, theory, or performance skills, and create a structured plan to address these areas.
Private lessons also provide a supportive environment where students can express themselves creatively without the pressure of group settings. This individual attention can significantly boost a student's confidence, as they receive immediate feedback and encouragement. Moreover, the one-on-one format fosters a strong teacher-student relationship that can inspire and motivate students to pursue their musical goals more passionately.
Additionally, private lessons allow for flexibility in learning pace. Each student has a different learning style and timeline, and specialized instruction accommodates these differences. This adaptability ensures that students fully grasp concepts before moving on, leading to a deeper understanding of music.
Finally, private lessons open doors to various opportunities, including participation in competitions, auditions for ensembles, and exploration of diverse musical genres. As students progress, they often find new interests and passions within music that they may not have discovered in a group setting.
Overall, private music lessons are an essential component of a student's musical journey, fostering growth, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for music.
Information to our private lesson program can be found here.
Resources
Band Fees
Beginner Band Supply Sheets
Cardiff Junior High Band Forms
