Background

Colby Burris is a native of Cleveland, Tennessee. He attended Prospect Elementary, Bradley Junior High School, and Bradley Central High School. Mr. Burris is a 2002 graduate of Tennessee Technological University where he received his bachelor's degree in music education. While at Tech he studied percussion with Joseph Rassmussen and performed in a variety of ensembles including the Golden Eagle Marching Band, Percussion Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, Symphony Band, Trouveres Jazz Band, and the Bryan Symphony Orchestra. He was the 2002 winner of the prestigious Joan Derryberry Concerto competition with his performance of Ney Rosauro's Concerto for Marimba and Orchestra.

 

Mr. Burris joined the faculty at Walker Valley High School in 2002 as Assistant Band Director. During his tenure, he has taught a wide variety of classes including Intro to Guitar, Music Theory 1 & 2, Intro to Music Styles, Percussion Ensemble, Concert Band, Jazz Band, and Marching Band. WHVS performing ensembles consistently receives superior ratings at regional performance assessments both in marching and concert band. Over the past 17 years, the band has also traveled to London, England, five times to perform in the London New Year's Day Parade.

 

Colby has recently accepted the position of technology coach for Bradley County schools. He is a Level 2 Google Certified Educator and an Apple Teacher who has led several professional development sessions involving a variety of technology subjects ranging from G Suite in education to Ableton Live in instrumental music rehearsals.

 

Colby is married to Sarah Burris and they have one daughter, Lillie.