MEET THE DIRECTORS
Melissa Colvin (Romano), Director of Bands
972-600-6015
Mrs. Colvin grew up in Irving and graduated from Nimitz High School. She then attended the University of North Texas, where she earned an Undergraduate Degree in Music Education. While attending UNT, she performed in the Green Brigade Marching Band, UNT Drumline, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, and various Woodwind Ensembles. She received top instruction from Eugene Corporon, Dennis Fisher, Darhyl Ramsey, and Mark Ford. As a bassoonist, she studied privately with Kathleen Reynolds.
Mrs. Colvin is in her 19th year of teaching as a band director. She is excited to start her 6th year at de Zavala Middle School. The past five years have been very successful with top ratings at the Pride of Texas Music Festival, UIL Concert & Sightreading Contest, IISD Solo and Ensemble Contest, and NRH2O Music Festival. This past year, the Varsity Band performed at the Go Irving! that celebrates the awesome things going on in Irving ISD. In addition to her director responsibilities, Mrs. Colvin serves as the de Zavala Elective Lead, the Irving ISD Band Coordinator, and Band Curriculum Writer.
Prior to accepting the position at de Zavala Middle School, Mrs. Colvin served as the Director of Bands at Kennedale Junior High and Arthur Intermediate in Kennedale ISD. Under her direction, all bands received superior ratings at contests including UIL, NRH2O Music Festival, Fun Fest, and Peak Music Festical. The Kennedale Band Programs are known as one of the most successful programs in the area. In addition, she instructed and transformed the Kennedale High School Drumline into an
award-winning organization.
In her spare time, Mrs. Colvin enjoys traveling, hanging with her family, and cooking. In 2008 she wrote and published a children's book entitled "Mama, Lions Don't Listen" inspired by her son, Matthew. She lives in North Richland Hills with her wonderful husband, Eric, talented son named Matthew, two beautiful daughters, Emily and Anna, and dog named Bella.
Felix Esparza, Assistant Band Director
972-600-6015
Mr. Esparza is a graduate from New Mexico State University where he earned a Bachelors degree in Music Education. During his tenure at NMSU, he performed with the Wind Symphony, Jazz Ensemble and the Pride of New Mexico Marching Band. Mr. Esparza is a trumpet player and studied under Dr. Frank “Pancho” Romero. As an aspiring leader and educator Mr. Esparza attended the University of North Texas and earned his Masters degree in Educational Leadership.
Mr. Esparza served as the Director of Bands at Santa Teresa high School in New Mexico. He conducted the concert band and performed in out of state music festivals including the Heritage Music Festival in Anaheim, California and the American Music Festival in San Antonio, Texas. Mr. Esparza also worked as the assistant band director at Cary Middle School in Dallas ISD where he was responsible to teach all brass classes, percussion, and co-teach varsity band.
Mr. Esparza will be entering his 5th year as a band director and is looking forward to an excellent year with new challenges, and is excited to be a part of team Hawk.
