Nick Tirpak, originally from New Jersey, currently serves as the Director of Bands at Jefferson County High School in Dandridge, Tennessee. Under his direction, he leads the Marching Patriots, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, and various small ensembles. He was named a finalist for the 2024 North Carolina Beginning Teacher of the Year. Mr. Tirpak is a graduate of Western Carolina University where he earned his Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Science in Education. During his time, he served in numerous leadership positions including “Brass Caption Coordinator” with the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band. In this role, he gained valuable experience with teaching the 500-person ensemble and worked closely with the brass on marching and visual technique. In 2022, Nick was the recipient of the “Outstanding Prospective Teacher” award from the Western Carolina University College of Education and Allied Professions, as well as the “Richard M. Renfro Academic Achievement Award” from the Western Carolina University School of Music. Prior to his appointment at JCHS, he served as the Director of Bands at Mount Airy High School in Mount Airy, North Carolina.Under his direction, the band experienced notable growth and enrollment. Within this role, he lead and directed the Marching Granite Bears, Concert Band, Jazz Combo and was an advisor for the Tri-M Music Honor Society. With his guidance, the Mount Airy High School Concert Band consistently received superior ratings at state assessments. Mr. Tirpak’s students received superior and excellent ratings at Solo and Ensemble MPA, participated in county and district honor band clinics and in various college music programs. Mr. Tirpak was named the “Mount Airy City Schools Beginning Teacher of the Year” for the 2023-2024 school year. He resides in Knoxville with his wife Megan and dog Gibby.