In late summer, as the marching band began practice, Chapman welcomed Will Moon to the band department as assistant band director.

While this is Moon’s first year teaching at Chapman, this is not his first year as a Panther; in fact, he is a former member of the marching band and chorus. He formerly served as the drum major from his sophomore year onward.

Moon’s presence has impacted the band in many great ways, especially considering the role he fills was completely empty last year.

“He has taken time out of his schedule to offer extra help to students,” said senior Preston King. “The amount of help he offers to the kids has improved the whole band.”

Moon allows students to sign up for extra help during band class, wherein they can go to his office for about five minutes and practice.

Moon said that he’s glad to be back at his alma mater.

“I’ve spent so much time here that (Chapman) feels like home,” Moon said. “It’s a really healthy workplace, and it’s a good place to be.”

His history with Chapman has also made it easier for him to interact with the students in the band. It also helps when there’s someone there who has a more authoritative role who has also been with the band for the whole ride.

“Mr. Moon being a Chapman alum has made it easier for others at Chapman to become more comfortable with him working (here),” said King.

Moon said he’s glad to be a part of the success the marching band has experienced this year.

“When I was here, it was very up and down, like, we were consistently getting better, but our scores were always up and down,” Moon said. “So it’s nice to see that the program is continuing to be on that upward trajectory.”