The Arp Tiger Pride Band has announced the hiring of Kirk Ybañez as the program’s new Assistant Band Director and Director of Percussion.

Originally from the Philippines, Ybañez moved to Texas in 2016 and began his musical journey as a percussionist at Sabine High School. He later attended Northwestern State University, where he studied under Dr. Oliver Molina and performed with a variety of ensembles, including the Wind Symphony, Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band, Steel PanDemonium, Brazilian Samba Band, and the Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Orchestra.

In addition to his performance experience, Ybañez is recognized as a composer, educator, and advocate for student leadership. Band officials expressed excitement about the knowledge, passion, and energy he will bring to the program and the impact he is expected to have on percussion students.

The Arp Tiger Pride Band welcomed Ybañez to the Tiger family and said they look forward to the continued growth and success of the percussion program under his leadership.