Music

Lionel Williams Jr., Band instructor
Mr. Williams, Jr. is very excited to join the KIPP Renaissance High School inaugural team as Director of Bands.  A native of New Orleans, Mr. Williams graduated from Warren Easton Fundamental Senior High School.  After leading his high school band as Head Drum Major, Mr. Williams attended Grambling State University to pursue a degree and certification in Instrumental Music Education.  Mr. Williams excelled in a host of student leadership positions in the World Famed Grambling State Tiger Marching Band – serving as Trombone Section Leader, Drill Sergeant, Master Drill Sergeant and Student Director.  In the past ten years, Mr. Williams has directed Music programs in Helena, Arkansas, Bogalusa, Louisiana, and, at his alma mater, Warren Easton High School, in New Orleans.  Mr. Williams has won numerous grants for his students, including the “Instruments R Coming” grant bestowed by the Tipitina’s Foundation, Music Rising, Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation and the Gibson Foundation grant.  Mr. Williams’ administrative experience includes graduation from the School Leadership Center of Greater New Orleans, Aspiring Leaders Program; serving as Project Administrator/Activity Director for NYSP at Southern University at New Orleans; and School Administrator for the LEAP 21 Remediation and TANF Summer School programs.  Additionally, Mr. was elected President of The New Orleans Music Education Alliance, a non-profit organization that advocates for funding to support mandates requiring Music Education in K -12 schools.  Mr. Williams enjoys his family, live music and preparing young musicians for college and life situations through musical experiences.