Nordhoff Junior High & High School
1401 Maricopa Hwy, Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 640-4343 x1861
about music director
Bill Wagner
Mr. Wagner began teaching at Nordhoff Junior High & High School in 1988. Under his leadership, the music department has flourished and has been recognized as one of the top comprehensive small school music programs in the State of California.
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Mr. Wagner attended Hollywood High School and after two years at California Lutheran College he transferred to Oberlin College and graduated in 1985 from the Conservatory of Music with a Bachelor Degree in Trumpet Performance and Masters Degree in Music Education.
our music team &
distinguished alumni
Garrett Woll
Elementary Music Teacher
Garrett is Ojai’s new elementary music teacher. He graduated from Nordhoff in 2017. His expertise in multiple disciplines makes him extremely qualified to bring the excitement of music to our young students in grades 3-6. Garrett is a graduate of University of Utah and he participated in Wind Ensemble, Marching Band, Jazz Band, Jazz Combo, a Cappella Choir, String Orchestra and musicals all four years at Nordhoff. He also played baseball and soccer.
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“Going through Nordhoff’s music program was different than many others, given the size. After teaching at a high school of 2500+ students, I am very grateful now to have had the opportunity to participate and explore in so many different ensembles that I wouldn’t have had elsewhere.”
Emily Praetorius
SCORE Resident Composer
Emily is a professional composer and graduated from Nordhoff in 2008. She led a new program sponsored by the Ojai Music Festival last year that began mid-year called SCORE that teaches several Nordhoff students the skills necessary to become composers, culminating in performances of their own works. Emily participated in Wind Ensemble, Marching Band, Jazz Band and took AP Music Theory. Additionally she played in the pit for musicals and participated in California All-State Band.
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“Looking back on my time at the NHS music department I’m always filled with gratitude and warm memories. The music program gave me not only the foundation to continue with music through college and beyond, but also a welcoming community and friendships that still exist to this day.”
