Mx. Laurie holds a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Cognitive Neuroscience and Music Performance and Composition from UC Davis, and teaching credentials in Music and Physical Education from California State University, Northridge. A proud Taft alum, they returned to campus in Fall 2024 and have quickly made school history with both the orchestra and band programs. Mx. Laurie is an active instrumentalist and conductor in the LA area, a board member of CMEA-SWS and VITA Academy, and on staff at the CalCap Chamber Music Workshop in Sacramento. Their professional associations include Phi Beta Kappa, SCSBOA, NAfME, and PAMA, among others. 

Ms. Natalia Ramos holds a Bachelor of Music Education in Vocal Education from California State University, Northridge, and a Master's Degree in Choral Conducting from California State University, Los Angeles. 

David Frankel is a musician, filmmaker, and composer based in Los Angeles. In addition to his already accomplished career - having credits in numerous short films, drumming professionally, co-owning a record label, and being a former member of Second City - he finds time to coach percussion students at Taft. He holds a degree in FIlm & Media Studies from California State University, Northridge, and a CTE Credential from University of San Diego.

Brendan Thompson is a educator based in the San Fernando Valley. He earned is Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from California State University, Northridge in 2023. He has taught at multiple schools and is dedicated to educating young adults through music. Hs experience includes teaching and designing both indoor and outdoor programs for high schools in the valley, such as Taft Charter High School, Birmingham Community Charter, and Faith Baptist Schools, heleping these programs achieve competitive success in their respective divisions.

Nancy Maya joined the Taft Marching Band and Color Guard staff in 2024 as Color Guard Coach. Along with her participation in marching bands, being Drum Major, taking dance classes, color guard member and instructor in her youth, she also has a bachelor's degree in art.  She has a lifelong passion for the arts, dance, theater, and audio/visual storytelling.  Nancy hopes to bring all her creative talents to enrich, elevate, and transform both audience and performer.

Eva Jotkowitz has worked with the Taft Guard since Fall 2025 as a coach and choreographer, bringing both performance and dance experience to her role. She participated in color guard and dance throughout high school. She is passionate about the arts and dedicated to helping students grow creatively, as well as help students expand on their leadership skills. 

Aidan Neill has worked with the Taft Marching Band as a Brass Coach since 2024. His DCI credits include The Academy Drum & Bugle Corps and Blue Stars Drum & Bugle Corps. In addition to his artistic endeavors, he also teaches Chemistry at Taft. He holds a BS in Chemistry from CU Boulder.

Gordon Shining has worked with the Taft Marching Band since Fall of 2025. He marched 6 seasons of Drum Corps, spending his last 4 with Pacific Crest. He holds a degree in History from UC Riverside and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Teaching at Santa Clara University.