The Force
Behind the music
meet the team
Students in the East Choir vertical team are led by passionate individuals who excel in their field as outstanding choral directors, are presenters at state and national conventions, are active as leaders at the campus and district level, conduct numerous festival and honor choirs, and are upstanding members of Wylie and the surrounding communities. We encourage you to read more about our team through their individual pages.
DR. NATHAN DAME
Director of Choral Activities, Wylie East
Dr. Dame is a nationally recognized choral educator whose work blends musical excellence with deep student connection. He strives to create a program where singers are challenged, supported, and inspired to become part of something bigger than themselves.
ashley dame
Co-Director of Choirs, Wylie East
Mrs. Ashley Dame is a dynamic choral director whose work centers on heart, artistry, and belonging. She is passionate about helping singers feel known, grow in confidence, and experience the joy and connection that music can create.
andrew carr
Associate Choral Director, Wylie East
Mr. Carr is a passionate choral conductor-teacher who brings energy, creativity, and community into every rehearsal. He helps students discover their voice, build confidence, and experience the joy of growing together through meaningful music-making.
elizabeth harris
Associate Choral Director, Wylie East
Ms. Harris is a thoughtful choral educator who leads with care, patience, and purpose. She is committed to helping students feel supported, discover confidence in their voice, and grow as musicians in a place where they belong.
lindsay barnes
Head Choral Director, Burnett
Mrs. Barnes is a passionate choral teacher who brings warmth, energy, and connection into the classroom. She is committed to helping young singers feel known, grow in confidence, and discover the joy of belonging through music.
sam benavidez
Associate Choral Director, Burnett
Mr. Benavidez is a passionate choral educator who brings energy, creativity, and joy into the classroom. He helps students build confidence, discover their voice, and experience the connection that comes from making music together.
BRENT BARNES
Head Choral Director, Parker
julianna ake
Head Choral Director, Hampton
Mr. Barnes loves the power of music and how it connects individuals from all different backgrounds and cultures. Â He is driven to providing the best choral music experiences possible for his students and program.
Mrs. Ake is thrilled to begin the choral program at Hampton Intermediate and build excitement about the Raider Choral program at a young age!
Ms. Barrow is a recent graduate of UNT and student taught in Denton ISD. Â She is thrilled to begin her career as a Harrison Raider!
CONTACT THE DIRECTORS
For information on the Raider Area Choral Department, please contact the campus director at the information provided. Â
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Wylie East High School Raider Choirs
Nathan & Ashley Dame, Andrew Carr, Elizabeth Harris, Directors
(972) 429-3168
nathan.dame@wylieisd.net
ashley.dame@wylieisd.net
andrew.carr@wylieisd.net
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Burnett Junior High School Raider Choirs
Lindsay Barnes & Sam Benavidez, Directors
(972) 429-3216
lindsay.barnes@wylieisd.net
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Parker Junior High School Raider Choirs
Brent Barnes, Director
(972) 429-TBD
brent.barnes@wylieisd.net
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Hampton Intermediate School Raider Choirs
Julianna Ake, Director
(972) 429-TBD
julianna.ake@wylieisd.net
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Harrison Intermediate School Buccaneer Choirs
Emma Barrow, Director
(972) 429-3316
Email TBD