Experience Musical Excellence with NTA's Award-Winning Band Program
Welcome to the award-winning NTA Band Program, a vibrant and dynamic musical community under the expert direction of Mr. Ryan McPhail. Our band program is a testament to the pursuit of musical excellence, creating a nurturing environment for students to explore, learn, and thrive in the world of music.
Meet Mr. Ryan McPhail, Band Director
Mr. Ryan McPhail is our esteemed Band Director, bringing decades of experience and a passion for music education. A native of Eastover, NC, he graduated from Cape Fear High School and earned his degree in Music Education from East Carolina University, where he studied percussion under Harold Jones and Mark Ford. Mr. McPhail has taught middle and high school band across multiple North Carolina counties and has worked extensively with drumlines and marching programs throughout the region. He currently assists with the BIGMAC BAND at Mac Williams Middle School and has also served as a percussion instructor for the Cape Fear High School Marching Colts.Honored with the 2022 Southeastern District Bandmasters Association Award of Excellence, Mr. McPhail is dedicated to developing students both musically and personally. His goal is to inspire a lifelong love of music in every student he teaches.
Middle School Band
In the middle school band, students embark on a musical journey, starting with Beginning Band in 6th grade. As 2nd and 3rd-year students progress, they become part of the 7th-8th Middle School Band. These young musicians also contribute to the musical atmosphere of the middle school chapel, performing about twice a year. Their repertoire includes a Christmas Concert, a Spring Concert, and participation in prestigious events like the NC Band Festival and the ACSI Band Festival. The middle school band consistently excels, receiving an Excellent rating at the NC Band Festival and a Superior rating at the ACSI Band Festival. Students also participate in All-District and All-State band clinics, enriching their musical education.
High School Band
For 9th to 12th-grade students, the high school band offers numerous performance opportunities throughout the year. From the Veteran's Patriotic Celebration to Christmas Concerts, Chapel Performances, and Spring Concerts, our high school musicians showcase their talents in diverse settings. Participating in events such as the NC Band Festival (Excellent Rating) and the ACSI Band Festival (Superior Rating), our high school band consistently demonstrates excellence. Students further engage in the All-District and All-State band clinics, broadening their musical horizons.
Join the Harmonious Journey at NTA
Choosing Northwood Temple Academy means choosing a musical education that goes beyond notes and rhythms. Our Band Program, led by the talented Mr. Ryan McPhail, fosters a love for music, instills values of excellence, and creates lasting memories for your child.
2025 Band Festival Awards
Every year the NTA band participates in the NC State Band Festival and this year both Middle and High School both received ratings of Superior. They also received ratings of Superior in the ACSI Band Festival.
