GROSSMONT INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
& COLOR GUARD
Instructional Staff & Experts
James Villegas
Band Director
I have had the privilege of being a part of the Grossmont High School music family for many years, and it's truly been an adventure!
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Being in an ensemble is one of life’s greatest adventures. You start as a beginner—learning “Hot Cross Buns” or twirling a flag—and before you know it, you're performing your favorite movie themes or playing Beethoven with friends, all while becoming part of something far greater than yourself.
My own musical journey began in the 5th grade, and it has taken me through a variety of incredible experiences. From military bands to earning degrees at Pepperdine University and Western Washington University, where I studied orchestral and choral conducting, to leading the trombone choir and athletic band, every step has been a new chapter. Along the way, I had the honor of marching in the Midwest, touring Japan, performing with the Count Basie Orchestra, playing for a president, and even performing for royalty.
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I began my teaching career in Washington state and have taught in the San Diego area since 2004. I also had the honor of founding a youth marching band and color guard, which later became part of the local “Keep the Spirit of ’45 Alive” organization, dedicated to honoring WWII veterans.
At Grossmont, you can look forward to unforgettable halftime shows, parades, orchestral concerts, ROTC events, and more. The sky’s the limit in terms of what you can achieve—it’s my job to support and guide you on your musical journey.
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Music is the ultimate lifelong learning experience. We learn, we grow, and we make friends we call family. At Grossmont, we’ll set you on that journey, one that will stay with you for life.
Justin Kriebel
Percussion Expert
Tyler Deardon
Marching Expert
Tyler’s musical journey began in the fifth grade under the guidance of Mr. Villegas, who introduced him to the trumpet. His passion for music quickly grew, and by middle school, Tyler was part of the first-ever Spring Valley Middle School Marching Band, which gained recognition throughout the community.
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At Steele Canyon High School, Tyler immersed himself in all aspects of band life, participating in marching competitions, pops concerts, and musicals. He returned to his middle school to teach marching etiquette and inspire the next generation of musicians, preparing them for their future high school band experiences.
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Tyler continued his musical education at the collegiate level, joining the Cuyamaca Symphonic Band and furthering his performance skills. In 2018, he took his passion to new heights by joining the Gold Drum and Bugle Corps.
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Currently, Tyler is the Trumpet Section Leader for the SDSU Aztecs Marching Band, where he continues to hone his leadership skills and inspire the next generation of musicians.
Fae Beach
Color Guard Expert
Fae has been bringing energy and artistry to Grossmont High School’s Color Guard for five years, and she’s now sharing that passion with the Monte Vista High School team as well.
A proud El Capitan High School alumna, she spent all four years marching before taking the floor with Vox Artium in 2025.
When she’s not spinning and performing, Fae is working toward her degree in Special Education - fueling her mission to inspire, empower, and make a difference both on and off the field.
Robert Elinson
Jazz Instructor
Technicians
In addition to our incredible staff, we are fortunate to have many dedicated assistants who provide invaluable support across all aspects of the program. These coaches help with rehearsal, guide students individually, and ensure that the learning environment remains organized and focused. Their contributions are essential in ensuring that every student receives the attention and encouragement needed to succeed, ultimately making our music program stronger and more supportive for all musicians.
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