The purpose of the Willow Spring High School Band Program is to educate young people through music performance. Our time together will not be limited to simply learning about music, although that is our primary goal. Through your involvement in these organizations, you will mature as a musician, student, and person. The curriculum is cyclical in nature; while there are similarities from year to year, the comprehensive program encompasses four years of study. Individual development of character, self-esteem, teamwork, and a sense of group accomplishment are additional rewards of participating in band at Willow Spring.
STAFF
Kevin M. Still
DIRECTOR OF BANDS
Kevin M. Still has served as the Director of Bands at Willow Spring High School in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, since the school’s founding in 2021. In this role, Mr. Still conducts the Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Marching Band, and Jazz Band. The band program has been praised for its contemporary approach to performances, its family-like atmosphere, and its comprehensive ensemble offerings.
Before joining Willow Spring, Mr. Still was the Director of Bands at North Lincoln High School in Lincolnton, NC. His teaching responsibilities included conducting the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, “Band of Knights” Marching Band, Jazz Band, and Pit Orchestras. He also assisted with the middle school bands at North Lincoln Middle School. The NLHS Wind Ensemble consistently earned Superior ratings at concert festivals, and the Marching Band was a frequent winner of 1st place and Grand Champion awards. The North Lincoln Band program supported over 160 students with a comprehensive parent booster organization.
Mr. Still began his career as the Director of Bands & Choirs at West Stanly High School in Oakboro, NC, where he conducted the Concert Band, Marching Band, Vocal Ensemble, and Jazz Band. During his tenure, the band and choir programs grew substantially, with the band enrollment at West Stanly Middle School nearly tripling. Ensembles from West Stanly consistently earned “excellent” and “superior” ratings at state and regional music festivals and competitions.
Mr. Still holds a Master’s in Music Education from Texas Tech University (2018) and a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (2012), where he was awarded the North Carolina Teaching Fellows Scholarship. He received his National Board certification in Adolescence Music in 2023. As a performer, Mr. Still marched trumpet with the Carolina Crown Drum and Bugle Corps in 2009, earning a silver medal at the DCI World Championships and high brass honors.
Mr. Still is a member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, the National Association for Music Education, the North Carolina Music Educators Association, and the National Band Association. Outside of music, he enjoys golfing, hiking, running, and church service opportunities. He lives in Willow Spring, NC, with his wife Kristen, and their sons Craig (5), Colin (3), and Camden (1), as well as their cat Gracie.
Dominique Ruffin
MARCHING PERCUSSION INSTRUCTOR
Dominique Ruffin's musical journey began at the young age of two when he was introduced to percussion through the drum set. Proudly emerging from the Orange County public school system, Dominique actively engaged in band programs from elementary school through high school. Recognizing his talent and potential, his middle school band director, Dr. Arris Golden, his high school band director, Andy Carter, and his mentor, Scott Thomas, played pivotal roles in shaping his musical aspirations.
Encouraged to audition for Drum Corps International, Dominique embarked on a transformative experience by marching with the Coastal Surge Drum and Bugle Corps from 2013 to 2015. Passionate about nurturing percussion programs, Dominique has made significant contributions as a percussion tech and clinician across various locations in North Carolina, including his recent involvement with Apex Friendship High School in Apex, NC.
Beyond his music endeavors, Mr. Ruffin dedicates his time to serving as a Security Official at Chapel-Hill High School and managing his tree-cutting service during the school year. Grateful for his role within the Willow Spring Sound of the Storm team, Dominique embraces each opportunity to make a positive impact through his diverse skill set and unwavering dedication to music and community.
Allen Goede
PERCUSSION INSTRUCTOR
Allen brings energy, expertise, and nearly a decade of front ensemble experience to the Willow Spring percussion program. With a background in both marching band and indoor percussion, he specializes in technique, ensemble timing, and performance excellence. Allen is passionate about creating a positive and productive learning environment, helping students grow as musicians, performers, and teammates. His approach is rooted in setting high—but achievable—standards, encouraging students to push themselves while keeping rehearsals engaging and meaningful. For Allen, success is measured by steady progress and, most importantly, by students enjoying the process.
He performed with the George Mason University Indoor Drumline in 2016 and 2017, serving in a leadership role during his final year. Allen holds a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral and Administrative Studies with a minor in Psychology from East Carolina University, which helps him foster a positive and productive team environment. He is excited to continue building strong ensembles and guiding students toward performances they can be proud of with the Willow Spring percussion program.
Outside of teaching, Allen is a big fan of EDM, loves attending music festivals, and is always up for traveling or cruising—basically anywhere with good sounds and a great view.
