Who We Are

 Zach Peycha is our NorthWood High School Band Director.

Zach is a recent graduate of Ball State University, earning his Bachelor of Music Education with a focus on Instrumental and General Music Education K-12. Throughout his collegiate career, Zach performed as
principal tubist with the Ball State Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra at prestigious events including the American Bandmasters Association National Conference, College Band Directors National Association National Conference, and Indiana Music Educators Association State Conference.

In addition to his collegiate achievements, Zach has served on the brass staff of prominent Drum and Bugle Corps, including the Madison Scouts, Santa Clara Vanguard, and Elevate Winds, specializing in tuba instruction and music coordination. He has also contributed his expertise to several leading high school music programs across Central Indiana, supporting their success at major competitions such as ISSMA State Finals and Bands of America Grand National Championships.

Zach’s dedication to music education extends beyond performance; he currently teaches private tuba and euphonium lessons and performs regularly with the Elysian Brass Quintet in the Indianapolis area. His leadership, passion for music, and commitment to student growth make him an outstanding addition to the NorthWood community.

Zach Peycha is eager to begin his new role and looks forward to working with the talented students, staff, and community at NorthWood.

Chris Pinto is our NorthWood Middle School Band Director and NorthWood High School Assistant Band Director.

Chris is from Lafayette, Indiana and is a recent graduate of Ball State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Music Education in instrumental and general music K-12. Throughout his collegiate career, Chris performed as the principal trumpet with the Ball State Wind Symphony. Chris also performed in a wide variety of ensembles including the Ball State Symphony Orchestra, the Ball State “Wrecking Crew” Trumpet Ensemble, the Ball State “Pride of Mid America” Marching Band, and the Ball State Jazz Ensembles. During his time at Ball State, Chris was a two-time National Trumpet Competition quarterfinalist in both 2021 and 2023; and was invited to perform at the 47th annual International Trumpet Guild conference in 2023. 

In addition to his collegiate achievements, Chris has proven his dedication to music education wherever he is. During his undergraduate studies Chris worked in instrument repair, taught private trumpet lessons, and was heavily involved in the greater Lafayette music community, teaching summer marching band, summer 5th grade band, and performing in the local Jazz scene.

After completing his undergraduate degree, Chris served as the elementary and general music teacher at Suncrest Elementary in Frankfort Indiana, where he revitalized the music program, created new performance opportunities for students, and founded an after school percussion ensemble.

Following his time at Frankfort, Chris has served as the Director of Bands at Terre Haute North Vigo High School. Under his direction the Terre Haute North Bands have been consecutive ISSMA Scholastic A Marching Band finalists, and have earned the ISSMA All-Music Award for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years; earning consistent superior ratings at Concert Band, Jazz Band, and Solo and Ensemble contests.

Chris is eager to begin his new role, and looks forward to working with the dedicated students, staff, and community of the Wa-Nee Schools.

Stephanie Miller has been the Color Guard Director at NorthWood High School since 2019, where she has led color guard to 6 state finals appearances. She is a 2017 graduate of NorthWood, and a Red Regiment bass clarinet alum.  She  is a 2024 graduate from Full Sail University with a Bachelor of Science in Media Communications. Stephanie also has her Cooking Class Certification from Le Cordon Bleu in Italy.