Daniel Crain (he/him) has been a dedicated music educator and band director for over 20 years. His ensembles have thrived under his leadership, consistently earning top honors—including numerous Superior ratings at OMEA Large Group adjudicated events—and growing in both size and musical excellence. In recognition of his commitment to the craft and his students, Dan was honored with membership in the American School Band Directors Association.
From 2013 to 2024, Dan served as a high school and middle school band director in the Shaker Heights City School District, directing concert bands, jazz band, marching band, and teaching music composition. He also led international tours with the Pride of Shaker Heights Marching Band to Spain, Italy, and France, and co-directed the Shaker Heights Summer Music Camp, where he developed a student leadership program rooted in community and collaboration. Dan previously taught in the Mentor Public Schools, Youngstown City Schools, and Perry Local Schools in Massillon, OH.
A proud 1999 graduate of North Royalton High School, Dan earned his Bachelor of Music Education from Bowling Green State University in 2003 and his Master of Arts in Music from Case Western Reserve University in 2008. He has continued his professional development through graduate coursework at Capital University, the University of Texas at Austin, and Northwestern University.
Dan has been an integral part of the Cleveland Youth Wind Symphony (CYWS) for 19 years, including serving as founding conductor of the CYWS II Concert Winds and currently as Co-Music Director and co-conductor of CYWS Group I. He also led the Lakeland Civic Band from 2017 to 2022, and has actively served the Ohio Music Education Association in various leadership roles.
Dan is deeply grateful to the mentors, colleagues, students, and family members who have shaped his journey. He credits his parents, Steve and Diane, for nurturing his love of music from a young age—starting with accordion lessons at age eight and tuba in fifth grade. Their sacrifices and encouragement laid the foundation for his lifelong calling. He is especially thankful to mentors such as Marty Lydecker, Dr. Gary Ciepluch, Dr. Bruce Moss, Paul Reed, Chuck Frank, and Tom Deep for their enduring support.
Dan is incredibly honored and humbled to work alongside the talented musicians of the Cleveland Pride Band, and is grateful for the opportunity to continue sharing in the joy of music-making with this inspiring community.
Devlin J. Pope (he/him), a passionate musician and educator from Columbus, Ohio, is deeply committed to fostering musical growth and creativity in learners of all ages. Currently serving as the Jazz Associate Director for the Cleveland Pride Band, the Director of the University Heights Symphonic Band, and a dedicated Director of Bands at Garfield Heights City Schools, Devlin brings a wealth of experience and a collaborative spirit to all his roles.
Devlin's musical journey began in 5th grade when he was captivated by the sound of the clarinet and, later, expanded his skills on bassoon and saxophone, joining his high school jazz, symphonic, and marching bands. With a lifelong love of music that transcends genres, Devlin believes there is always something valuable to discover in every style of music.
He earned both bachelors and masters degrees in music education from Ohio University, focusing on bassoon, and was involved in a wide range of ensembles, including the Marching 110, woodwind quartets, symphonic band, orchestra, wind ensemble, and the Leading Tones a cappella group. These varied musical experiences have informed his comprehensive and inclusive approach to both performance and education.
Throughout his career, Devlin has been deeply motivated by the desire to make a positive impact on others, just as his own teachers did for him. His work spans both youth and adult education, ensuring that people of all ages have access to musical development and the opportunity to continue their musical journeys. As the guest Musical and Artistic Director of the Cleveland Pride Band, Devlin is especially dedicated to adult learners, helping them reconnect with their musical passions and providing a space for them to continue growing as musicians.
In his role with the University Heights Symphonic Band and as a teacher with Garfield Heights City Schools, Devlin works with students of varying ages and skill levels. He is particularly passionate about engaging adult learners who are eager to return to music after time away. He finds joy in the process of helping each individual reconnect with their musical voice, whether they are students in a high school classroom or adult members of an ensemble.
Devlin’s teaching philosophy is centered around respect, encouragement, and fostering a collaborative environment where everyone can thrive. Whether working with students in public schools or adult musicians, he is committed to the belief that music is for everyone and that every person has the potential to grow, no matter their starting point.
Throughout his career, Devlin has earned numerous accolades for his work, including the Black Men Teach Award from the Metropolitan Cleveland Alliance of Black School Educators, recognition as a finalist for Teacher of the Year, membership with the American School Band Directors Association (ASBDA), and the 'Roses for Teachers' award, presented by his students in appreciation of his dedication to their success.