Theo Vernon

Theo Vernon attended The University of Alabama 1980-1985, receiving a BM degree in saxophone performance and a BS degree in music education. He received his Masters of Music Education degree in 1991 from VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, Illinois. In 2003, he became the FIRST Band Director in the state of Alabama to receive National Board Certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards in Music. Renewed his certification for National Board 2013.

Mr. Vernon was appointed Associate Director of Bands at Grissom High School in August 1985. In December of that same year, Vernon co-conducted Grissom's Symphonic Band I at the Mid-West International Band and Orchestra Clinic at the age of 23. Presently, Vernon works with the marching band, conducts the Symphonic Band II and directs the two Jazz Bands. Under his direction the Symphonic Band II has rarely received less than an overall superior rating in any adjudication. They were recently selected to perform for the Alabama Music Educators Conference in Montgomery, Alabama. The "A" Jazz Band has been selected to perform at the prestigious "Essentially Ellington" Jazz Band Competition in New York CIty and has been selected twice as one of 12 finalists in the Swing Central Jazz Band Competition in Savannah, Georgia. He performs with the Huntsville Symphony and Broadway Theater League touring and local musical productions.

Vernon is a member of many state and national organizations including: ABA, MENC, NEA, NBA, Phi Mu Alpha, JEN (Jazz Education Network) and the Alabama chapter of Phi Beta Mu; the national band directors fraternity. Vernon has served as a District Chairman and Jazz chair for the state of Alabama.