Meet Brodie Ordaz, the music director at Central Community High School. For him, music isn’t just a subject—it’s a lifeline, a creative sanctuary, and a space for self-discovery. Brodie has spent the past three years transforming the school’s music program into a dynamic, inclusive environment where students aren’t just learning notes—they’re finding their passion.

“My journey here has been anything but linear,” Brodie says with a laugh. From starting on the tenor saxophone in fifth grade to joining a metal band in high school, Brodie’s love for music took many forms before leading him to music education. A pivotal moment came during a college trip where he was asked, on the spot, to teach music theory to a group of high school tuba players. “It was terrifying,” he recalls. “But on the bus ride home, I realized I’d found my calling.”

After earning a degree in music education from Illinois State University, Brodie honed his teaching skills at ROWVA Public Schools, where he led K-12 choir and elementary music. But it wasn’t until he joined Central High in 2021 that he felt he’d found his perfect fit.

“When I arrived, the program was more of a hangout with music on the side,” he explains. “There was nothing wrong with that, but I wanted to create something deeper—an environment where students felt challenged and inspired to grow.”

Today, Central’s music program includes concert band, marching band, choir, and even a rock band—a unique addition introduced last year. “Rock band has brought in students who never thought they’d be part of a music program,” Brodie says. “It’s a house within a house, a community for kids who just want to rock.”

The rock band complements a robust concert and marching band program. Brodie acknowledges that while he personally prefers the intricacies of concert band, he embraces the “song and dance” nature of marching band. “Both have their place,” he says. “They teach discipline, collaboration, and a sense of pride in performance.”

For Brodie, one of the most rewarding aspects of his role is watching students evolve. “When kids come into the program and realize they’re capable of more than they thought, it’s magical,” he says. “You can see their brains light up when they solve a musical challenge. The reward isn’t just in learning—it’s in the sound they create when they get it right.”

One standout student is Jensen, a tuba player who’s grown to love band over the past two years. “Jensen started out liking band, but now he loves it,” Brodie says. “It’s amazing to see upperclassmen like him step up, embrace challenges, and help younger students feel engaged right away.”

Central’s administration has played a vital role in the program’s success. From funding new music stands and a state-of-the-art synthesizer to supporting the introduction of advanced music courses like theory and technology, the district has prioritized the arts. “We’re incredibly fortunate to have an admin team that values music,” Brodie says. “It’s not just about providing resources—it’s about creating opportunities for students to thrive.”

Brodie is particularly proud of the program’s inclusivity. “Music is a home for kids who might not feel at home elsewhere,” he says. “Not everyone is into sports, and that’s okay. Here, whether you’re singing in choir, playing in band, or shredding in rock band, you’re part of a community.”

Looking ahead, Brodie is focused on expanding the program even further, with plans to introduce music theory and appreciation courses. “There’s always room to grow,” he says. “But what matters most is that our students feel like they belong and that they’re part of something meaningful.”

For Brodie, the journey isn’t just about teaching music—it’s about fostering connection, resilience, and joy. “Music has the power to change lives,” he says. “And at Central, I get to see that power in action every day.”