Mr. Keith Dublin, Band DirectorMr. Keith Dublin is currently in his fifth year as Director of Bands at Grassfield High School in Chesapeake, Virginia. With over a decade of teaching experience in both North Carolina and Virginia, Mr. Dublin has built a passionate career as a music educator and leader. His unwavering commitment to student development and musical excellence has led his ensembles to achieve superior ratings at district, regional, and state-level assessments.
Under Mr. Dublin’s leadership, the Grassfield High School band program has continued to thrive, earning prestigious accolades such as Virginia Honor Band and Program of Honor. These honors are a reflection of his dedication to fostering high standards in musicianship, discipline, and teamwork across all ensembles. Mr. Dublin holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies from East Carolina University (ECU), where he cultivated his musical expertise and deepened his passion for jazz and instrumental performance. He later earned a Master of School Administration from the University of Phoenix, equipping him with the tools to lead effectively and manage dynamic educational environments. This combination of musical and administrative training allows Mr. Dublin to successfully oversee a comprehensive and inclusive band program that serves a wide range of student needs and abilities. At Grassfield High School, Mr. Dublin directs multiple ensembles, including but not limited to the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, and the award-winning Marching Grizzlies. Through these groups, he cultivates a culture rooted in artistic excellence, personal responsibility, and mutual respect. His teaching philosophy emphasizes that music education not only builds technical skill but also nurtures confidence, character, and leadership. Mr. Dublin is a proud member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, the oldest and largest music fraternity in the United States. Beyond his work in the classroom and on the podium, Mr. Dublin is an advocate for music education and youth development. Originally from North Carolina, Mr. Dublin resides in South Mills with his wife, a fellow educator in Chesapeake Public Schools, and their two children, Keith Jr. (KJ) and Dezi. In his free time, he enjoys playing video games, mowing the lawn while listening to podcasts and audiobooks, cheering on his alma mater’s sports teams (Go Pirates!), and most of all, spending quality time with his family. Mr. Dublin’s vision as an educator is grounded in the belief that music has the power to change lives. Through his work, he continues to inspire students to reach their full potential as musicians, leaders, and lifelong learners. |
Mr. Luke Walker, Band DirectorMr. Luke Walker joined Grassfield High School in June of 2022. Mr. Walker instructs the 9th Grade Band, Music Theory, AP Music Theory, Adaptive Music, & Percussion during the school day. Mr. Walker directs the Marching Grizzlies with Mr. Dublin & is the Director of the Indoor Percussion Ensemble.
Under Mr. Walker's leadership, the Grassfield Indoor Percussion has turned into one of the premier percussion ensembles in not only Virginia, but the entire world. The Indoor Percussion Ensemble have consistently been AIA Champions, WGI Regional Champions, WGI Power Regional Champions, & medalists at WGI World Championships---earning PSCO Bronze in 2023, PSCO Gold in 2024, & PSCW Silver in 2025. Mr. Walker has also served on the WGI Percussion Advisory Board since 2023. Mr. Walker previously taught music in Virginia Beach, with the majority of his time spent as the Director of Bands as First Colonial High School where he earned many special recognitions including the VBCPS "I Make a Difference" award three times & was also named the First Colonial 2020 Teacher of the Year. Prior to his six years at First Colonial, Mr. Walker also taught orchestra at the elementary & secondary levels for two years. Mr. Walker is a lifelong native of Hampton Roads. Mr. Walker grew up in Chesapeake, graduating from Hickory High School, before choosing to attend Old Dominion University in Norfolk. While at ODU, Mr. Walker performed with the Wind Ensemble, Brass Choir, Big Band, Symphony Orchestra, Norfolk Chamber Consort, & numerous other chamber ensembles as principal trombonist & later as bass trombonist. While pursuing degrees in Music Education & Special Education, Mr. Walker worked at Grassfield High School first as an instructor with the Marching Grizzlies & later on as a Special Education Teacher Assistant. Mr. Walker currently resides in Virginia Beach with his two dogs, Scarlett & Ben. When he is not teaching band, Mr. Walker enjoys cooking, kayaking, hiking, & is active in the esports community. |