Travis Larson
Brass Caption Head
Travis Larson believes in the power of music to change lives. His passion for music can be traced back to his earliest childhood, when he listened to records non-stop — eager for the day he could finally sign up for band class and learn to play an instrument himself. He first caught the marching arts bug in 1989 as a member of the Velvet Knights, later aging out with the Blue Devils in 1996.
For over 30 years, Travis has worked with many band programs, encouraging young people to pursue music. He serves as brass instructor, program coordinator, wind composer/arranger and consultant for several high-profile band programs in Arizona, including Millennium, Mountain View, Williams Field, Red Mountain, Peoria and Desert Ridge high schools. His ultimate goal is to provide a high-quality marching band experience, promoting musical values and arts education.
Born and raised in Mission Viejo, California, Travis was a member, then brass instructor for the Mission Viejo High School Marching Band from 1992-2005. In that time, the ensemble achieved great success, winning two state championships and multiple high music trophies.
In 1998, Travis was a brass staff member of the Jim Ott Brass trophy-winning Blue Devils. He later joined the brass team for The Cadets from 2014-2016, winning the high brass trophy at the 2015 DCI World Championships. From 2017-2019 Travis joined the new brass team at the Boston Crusaders and helped build some of the most successful horn lines in their history.
Travis received his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Grand Canyon University in 2016. He is currently the band director at Mendoza Elementary and Shepherd Junior High School in Mesa, Arizona.
Travis resides in San Tan Valley, Arizona with his wife, Ann, their two children, TJ and Ava, and their Chihuahua Axl.
