Christopher Zanella, Associate Director and leader of the Cleveland Pride Jazz Band, has dedicated the past decade to teaching and inspiring young musicians. As Head Band Director at Perkins Local Schools, he directs band classes for grades 6-12, teaches AP Music Theory, and has guided his students to earn numerous accolades across marching band, wind ensemble, and jazz ensemble. A passionate advocate for jazz education, Christopher founded the Perkins Jazz Ambassadors, the high school’s jazz band, which has become a celebrated part of the school’s music program. Christopher holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Baldwin Wallace University and a Master’s degree in Music with a focus on education from Bowling Green State University. He lives with his wife, Julia, and their daughter, Mara, who share his passion for music and the arts. Christopher is thrilled to contribute to and grow with this dynamic community of musicians.