Chris Vanderwall, Director of Bands

Chris Vanderwall began his role as Director of Bands at Plainfield Central High School in 2018. Prior to PCHS, Mr. Vanderwall was Director of Bands John F. Kennedy Middle School in Plainfield. He earned a Bachelor of Music Education Degree at VanderCook College of Music in 2006 while studying percussion with Kevin Lepper and earned a Master of Music Education Degree at the University of Illinois in 2011 while studying percussion with William Moersch, Ricardo Flores, and Bolokada Conde. At Plainfield Central, Mr. Vanderwall’s responsibilities include teaching AP Music Theory, directing the Wildcat Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Musical Pit Orchestra, and Percussion Ensembles in addition to co-directing the Symphonic Bands.

Mr. Vanderwall continues to maintain an active role in the music community. He served as the District IX Junior Level Band Representative for the Illinois Music Education Association, holds a position on the VanderCook College of Music Alumni Board of Directors, and plays timpani with the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra. Mr. Vanderwall also maintains professional memberships with the Percussive Arts Society, National Band Association, and the National Association for Music Education in addition to proudly endorsing Innovative Percussion and Etymotic Research ear protection.

Amy Mullard, Assistant Director of Bands

Prior to teaching at PCHS, Ms. Mullard was the Music Coordinator and Band Director for Johnsburg Junior High and a Music Tech for Elk Grove High School’s Marching Grenadiers. She earned her Bachelor of Music Education in 2016 from the University of Illinois playing in several ensembles such as Wind Orchestra, Marching Illini, and Horn Choir. Ms. Mullard is currently enrolled at VanderCook College of Music to earn her Master of Music Education degree.
In addition to co-teaching the bands, Ms. Mullard also teaches AP Music Theory.