Meet LeAndre

LeAndre Benton serves as an administrator in Richardson ISD, Texas, bringing a rich blend of leadership, music education, and performance experience to the school. Prior to his current role, Mr. Benton was the Associate Director of Bands at J.J. Pearce High School, where he directed the marching band, conducted the Wind Symphony, assisted with concert ensembles, and guided beginner classes in the Pearce cluster. His deep passion for music education began in his hometown of Longview, Texas, where he graduated from Longview High School.

Mr. Benton holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Northwestern State University, Louisiana, with certifications in both vocal and instrumental music. As a dedicated trombonist, he studied under professors Dr. J. Mark Thompson and Andrew Eden, while honing his conducting skills under Dr. Jeffrey C. Mathews. His time at Northwestern State was marked by leadership roles in the Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band, where he served as a trombone section leader, piccolo section leader, and drum major. He was also a member of the Wind Ensemble, Jazz Orchestra, Men’s Chorus, and multiple instrumental ensembles. Mr. Benton furthered his expertise with a Master of Education Administration from Lamar University.

In addition to his administrative work, Mr. Benton remains an active composer, arranger, and trombonist, with recent performances in the Metropolitan Winds of Little Elm. His compositions are published by C. Alan Publications, Carl Fischer Music, and Excelcia Music Publishing. He is also a sought-after adjudicator, clinician, summer camp conductor, and drum major instructor. His passion for music education is evident in his authorship of “The Daily Regimen”, a fundamental studies book for band, now in its third edition.

Outside of music, Mr. Benton is a dedicated NCAA Women’s Basketball Official, having officiated at prestigious events such as the UIL Girls State Basketball Tournament, the AAU Nationals in Las Vegas, and multiple conference finals match-ups. His officiating career also includes time as a Texas High School Basketball Official.

Mr. Benton’s affiliations reflect his commitment to both his musical and athletic communities, including memberships in the Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, International Trombone Association, and as a Gamma Rho alumni of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity.

In his downtime, LeAndre enjoys traveling, composing new music, cooking, and spending time with his energetic cockapoo, Coda.