In high school, Dave was involved in many activities--forensics, drama, and of course, band. He played the sax initially because his mother wanted him to take up that instrument. At Hastings College in Nebraska, (where he did upgrade his saxophone) he was classically trained and received a performance degree in saxophone.

Dave still performs, filling in with local jazz groups (though he's less likely to gig it now that he's a dad to son Dillon). Besides, he's fairly busy directing Doherty's Marching Band, Jazz Band and band concerts. In his sixth year at Doherty, Dave is proud that the Pride of Doherty Marching Band has made it to state competitions every year, as has the Winter Guard at the Rocky Mountain Percussion Association (RMPA). He confirms what he hears from the community--that Doherty band students are well-rounded, courteous and talented young people.