LCM announces new band leader

Little Cypress-Mauriceville CISD Superintendent Stacey Brister has announced that Israel Castaneda would be taking over as the new Director of Bands for LCM, following the resignation of Jose Ochoa.

Castaneda, who has served as the Associate Band Director for LCM since 2019, said he is excited about his new role.

“I know these kids,” he said. “I know what they can do. I’m excited to see the LCM Band Program grow and I can’t wait to get in there and get working.”

During Castaneda’s tenure as Associate Band Director, he was involved in Sweepstakes performances with the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band and Concert Band, as well as working with the Mauriceville Middle School Band. He also helped guide the Battlin’ Bear Marching Band to the Area Finals in 2020, and again in 2021.