Gary Keller
​Big Band Director

Gary Keller began playing trumpet during his high school years in Prospect, Ohio. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from The Ohio State University in 1962 and has combined music and education for 50 years. He has served as a classroom teacher (sciences) and, after earning a Master of Education Administration from The Ohio State University in 1969, a building principal, district superintendent, and county superintendent. He has also served as a consultant with the Ohio Board of Education. His musical talents led him to encourage students to study music, begin jazz or stage bands in schools, and assist with school musical productions. Away from school, he has played in small dance combos, big bands, concert bands, and brass quintets. He became the leader of the North Coast Big Band in 1990.  

About the North Coast Big Band

The North Coast Big Band was established in 1987 when some members of the concert band stayed after rehearsal to read through big band music. Now the Big Band performs at many of the concert band performances as well as maintains its own performance schedule throughout the calendar year. 
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Upcoming Performances

Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at the Sandusky Gazebo downtown - 7pm
Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at the Hayes Presidential Center in 
    Fremont - 7pm
Sunday, August 23, 2026 at LaRoe's Restuarant in Grand Rapids, OH - 4pm