MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Sky Ryders Drum & Bugle Corps has named music educator and U.S. Air Force Band veteran Jay Koupal as corps director, expanding its leadership team as the organization continues its return to Kansas.
Koupal previously served as the organization’s senior tour manager. In his new role, he will help oversee operations, education and the member experience, working with the corps’ administrative, creative, instructional, medical and tour-management teams.
Koupal currently serves as assistant director of bands for Manhattan-Ogden USD 383 in Manhattan. He is part of a four-member teaching team that instructs students in grades six through 12 across the district’s band program. His teaching career also includes positions in Ohio and Michigan.
“Jay brings a rare combination of educational leadership, marching-arts experience, and a deep commitment to young performers,” said Dale Antoine, CEO of the Sky Ryders Performing Arts Foundation.
Antoine said Koupal’s background and collaborative approach will help the organization honor its history while creating opportunities for another generation of performers.
Koupal holds degrees from the University of Michigan and Capital University and has completed doctoral coursework at Kansas State University.
His drum corps experience includes marching with The Bridgemen in 1985 and serving on the visual staff of Dutch Boy Drum & Bugle Corps in 1987. He also worked on the visual staff of the Plymouth-Canton High School Marching Band from 1986 through 1990.
“I am honored and excited to serve as Corps Director for the Sky Ryders Drum & Bugle Corps,” Koupal said. “Sky Ryders has a storied tradition, and I am thrilled to work alongside our staff, members, families, alumni, and supporters to create an environment where young people can learn, grow, perform, and take pride in what we accomplish.”
The organization said Koupal will help build a collaborative, inclusive community centered on education, performance and Sky Ryders traditions.