David Lesser
David Lesser (Clovis, CA) has been the Director of Bands at the Clovis North Educational Center in Fresno, California, since its opening in 2007. He started his 26th year of teaching in the fall of 2026. He administers all aspects of CNEC Instrumental Music grades 7-12, conducts the Wind Ensemble, and directs the Bronco Marching Band and Color Guard. Lesser is the Secondary Instrumental Resource Teacher for the CUSD Visual and Performing Arts Department. Prior to the opening of Clovis North, Lesser held Director positions at Clovis West High School from 2001 to 2006.
The Bronco Marching Band and Color Guard performed at the 2022 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and has been named Western Band Association class or grand champions in 2010, 2011, 2013, 2019, 2021, and 2024. The Clovis North Wind Ensemble was featured at the 71st annual Midwest Clinic, the 2016 and 2027 Music for All National Concert Band Festival, the 2017 California All-State Music Education Conference, and the 2024 California Music Educators Association All-State Festival.
Lesser served as an Associate Director of the Music for All National Honor Band in the Rose Parade® in 2026, 2022, and 2017. He was honored in 2020 by the John Philip Sousa Foundation as a Legion of Honor Laureate. In 2006, Lesser was recognized as one of the “50 Directors Who Make a Difference” by School Band and Orchestra magazine. He was the Fresno-Madera Counties Music Educator Association Jazz Educator of the Year in 2005.
Lesser has adjudicated marching, concert, and jazz festivals, guest conducted honor bands, and presented educational clinics throughout the United States. He has also served in numerous leadership capacities for NAfME, The Midwest Clinic, the Western Band Association, FMCMEA, CMEA Central Section, and the San Joaquin Valley Color Guard and Percussion Review.
He founded the San Joaquin Valley Concert Band Invitational, a Music for All Affiliate Regional Music Festival, celebrating its 17th year in March 2027.