Dr. Jonathan M. Kraemer, Director of Bands
Dr. Kraemer began teaching in 2006.  A native of the DFW metroplex, he graduated from Waxahachie HS in 1998.  He went on to East Texas Baptist University where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education in 2002, and then to Texas Tech University where he earned both a Master's of Conducting in 2004, and a Ph.D. in Fine Arts: Musicology in 2009.  Dr. Kraemer is now in his 15th year teaching.  Prior to coming to Abilene, Dr. Kraemer was the Director of Bands for Pampa ISD for 3 years and the Director of Bands at Roosevelt ISD for 7 years before that.  Dr. Kraemer was an Assistant Director at Abilene High during the 2017-18 school year before assuming the role of Director of Bands at AHS.  Dr. Kraemer’s specialty is brass with an emphasis in Trumpet.  Dr. Kraemer is also a member of the adjunct teaching faculty of the Hardin-Simmons University College of Fine Arts.  Dr. Kraemer and his wife are co-authors of the book, “The Band Director’s Guide to Success”, a 2016 Oxford University Press publication.  Dr. Kraemer’s family includes his wife, Michelle, their three children, and their adorable West Highland White Terrier.

​Ms. Alanna Curley, Associate Director of Bands
Alanna Curley joined the Abilene High School Band staff as Associate Director of Bands in 2021. Prior to gaining her position at AHS, Ms. Curley served as Associate Director of Bands at Craig Middle School in Abilene, TX. She graduated with honors from Abilene Christian University with her Bachelor of Music. During her time at ACU, she was a member of various university ensembles including principal clarinet of the Civic Orchestra of Abilene and the ACU Wind Ensemble for four years. She also had the pleasure of serving as Vice President of the Big Purple Marching Band for ACU. Prior to moving to Abilene, Ms. Curley graduated from Flower Mound High School in 2015. She is a member of several professional organisations including TMEA, TCTA, ICA, and Mu Phi Epsilon. While not at school, Ms. Curley enjoys traveling, hiking, lots of coffee, and games nights with loved ones.

​Mr. Drew Young, Assistant Director of Bands / Percussion Director
A proud product of Abilene ISD, Mr. Young graduated from AHS in 2016. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Abilene Christian University. During his time at ACU, Mr. Young performed with the Big Purple Marching Band, the Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo, Percussion Ensemble, the Fall Homecoming Pit Orchestra, ACU Opera, and the Abilene Civic Orchestra. Mr. Young served as the Battery Section Leader for the Big Purple Marching Band for three years where he received the Director’s Award and the Tops in Musicianship award. Mr. Young was also the recipient of the Outstanding Jazz Musician Award in 2020. Outside of the band hall, Mr. Young enjoys eating local food and listening to local music with his wife, Kayla.

Ms. Heather Hyde Wargo - Color Guard Director
A 2003 Eagle Band Alumni, Ms. Hyde Wargo began teaching in 2005 while completing her undergraduate degree in Music Education at McMurry University.  Following graduation she completed graduate trumpet performance studies at George Mason University, and a Masters in Music from Tarleton State University. She has previously served as an associate band and guard director in Houston, Texas and Washington, D.C. Ms. Hyde Wargo’s family includes her spouse Ryan, one child, and two very spoiled cats.