![](https://www.eldoradoband.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Esamson-head-500x500.jpg)
Mr. Samson is the Director of Instrumental Music at El Dorado High School. He previously served three years as Assistant Director and prior to that as percussion instructor and writer. In 2003, Eric was a participant of the Henry Mancini Institute (HMI) and performed with the HMI Orchestra until operations ceased in 2006. While performing with HMI, he had the opportunity to share the stage with artists such as Quincy Jones, Tony Bennett, Stevie Wonder, Michael Buble and Bill Cunliffe. Eric continues to be in demand as a freelance percussionist, percussion arranger, and performs regularly with his own Latin jazz band, and his combo of local educators “EdCode Quintet”.
Eric Samson is also the director of the Southern California Music Ambassadors. In the summer of 2024, he will embark on his 6th Ambassadors of Music European Tour.
![](https://www.eldoradoband.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Taylor-Headshot-500x500.jpg)
Mr. Smith is a dedicated and accomplished music educator currently serving as Director of Instrumental Music at El Dorado High School. With a Master’s degree in Education focusing on Social Emotional Learning, and a diverse background in music performance and instruction, Taylor brings a wealth of experience to the classroom .At El Dorado High School, Taylor leads the Orchestra program, Golden Hawk Marching Band, Symphonic Band, and Jazz Bands, fostering musical excellence and personal growth among his students. His commitment to music education extends beyond the classroom, as evidenced by his involvement in numerous professional associations, including the California Music Education Association (CMEA), Jazz Educators Network (JEN), and the Southern California School Band & Orchestra Association (SCSBOA). Taylor’s musical journey includes impressive achievements such as being a 2010 DCI World Champion with the Concord Blue Devils and a silver medalist in 2011. His expertise spans various aspects of music education, including drill writing, show design, visual program development, adjudication, and curriculum development. As an active performer and educator, Taylor continues to inspire students with his passion for music while creating a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment. His dedication to excellence in music education makes him an invaluable asset to the El Dorado Band program and the broader music commu
![](https://www.eldoradoband.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/mamaohead-500x283.jpg)
Bio Coming Soon…
![](https://www.eldoradoband.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/angela-head-2.jpg)
Bio Coming Soon…
![](https://www.eldoradoband.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/darren_vanderpoel-1.jpg)
Darren Van Derpoel
Marching Percussion Captain Head, Battery Arranger
Contact: dvanderpoel@pylusd.org
![](https://www.eldoradoband.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sean-head-500x499.jpg)
Sean Gordon
Front Ensemble Instructor, Music Arranger
Contact: sgordonl@pylusd.org
Bio Coming Soon…