The Santa Clara Vanguard is pleased to announce the return of Mykal McGrew to its Visual Staff for the 2025 season. A respected figure in the marching arts, Mykal combines extensive performance and instructional experience with a professional background in business analysis, bringing a unique perspective to the corps. Based in the Dallas–Fort Worth area, he is eager to contribute to another outstanding season.
Mykal performed with the Santa Clara Vanguard from 2014 to 2018, serving as trumpet section leader in 2017 and Drum Major in 2018, where his leadership and musical excellence inspired those around him. His instructional resume includes roles with the Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps (2019), Vanguard Cadets (2020), and Santa Clara Vanguard (2022, 2024), specializing in visual design, movement instruction, and conducting & leadership development.
Throughout Texas, Mykal has worked with top high school programs, including The Woodlands,Keller, Clements, Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, and Coppell High School, as well as numerous middle schools in the Houston and DFW areas. As a marching band technician, movement specialist, private lessons instructor, and leadership clinician, he has mentored countless students, helping them refine their craft and build confidence in themselves.
Mykal holds a Bachelor of Music in Trumpet Performance from Sam Houston State University (2019) and an MBA from the University of North Texas (2022), with a focus on International Business. By day, he works as a business analyst at Raising Cane’s at their Restaurant Support Office in Frisco, Texas, where he conducts data and reporting analysis. Outside of his professional and instructional commitments, Mykal enjoys practicing Kung fu with his father, hiking, exploring anime and manga, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.
Mykal is honored to rejoin the Santa Clara Vanguard and looks forward to collaborating with the staff and performers to create a memorable and impactful 2025 season.