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David’s achievements as a recording artist have come in no small part due to the years of teaching and training he received in elementary, junior high, and high school. Lessons learned and habits formed in these early years served him well and helped him to become a nationally recognized and respected musician. A significant part of David’s career is spent investing back into schools, both public and private, by conducting assemblies in which he presents a message of encouragement and motivation. Among David’s achievements is a national endorsement by Conn-Selmer, the leading manufacturer and distributor of band and orchestral instruments for professional, amateur, and student use. He has also made numerous television appearances, and his music has been well received in major jazz radio markets across the country. These and other achievements work together to provide David a platform from which he can encourage and motivate young people. Among the key themes David communicates in his school assemblies are:
Many schools have had David come in and do an assembly for their students. Below is a collection of comments from school officials who have experienced what David has to offer. ““David worked with our students in several venues. He was backed by a select rhythm section of students and faculty when performing for our chapel services, and he led a clinic on his approaches to improvisation to a student group that included ages from junior high through college. He also fielded questions in a discussion of the music industry, promotion and self-management. In all, he was engaging and easily communicated his musical experiences and skills to the audience. He is very easy to work with, both musically and educationally and the students received excellent insight into aspects of the music industry.”” Jack Ballard, Malone College, Canton OH, 330-471-8332 “David Wells performed for our Junior High and High School students on Friday, April 4. David did an outstanding job! We had over 600 students ages 12 – 18 in the gymnasium and they were captivated by his talents and his message. David's performance included upbeat songs that the students could appreciate. His message was simple: desire, discipline and determination are the three keys to being successful at reaching your goals. The students and faculty were engaged and enjoyed the concert. David interacted with the students and was willing to sign autographs after his performance. We live in a rural area and this performance by a professional jazz musician was an excellent way for the students to experience the fine arts and be exposed to careers that are available to anyone. David is a class act performer! I would recommend that any school or organization invite David Wells to perform locally. Mrs. Janie Day, Curriculum Coordinator Eastern Local Schools 937-695-9913
“Marshall County Schools recently had the pleasure of having David Wells as a guest performer. David made two presentations in our county - one for elementary students and one for the jr. high/high school band members. My students have not stopped talking about the experience! Not only did they get to enjoy a wonderful performance, but David also took the time to speak to the kids about the music business and the dedication it takes to succeed. To top the day off, David stayed after and "jammed" with our high school steel band. My kids were absolutely beside themselves. I would absolutely recommend a presentation by David Wells to any school system. He is wonderful to work with and leaves the students feeling truly inspired.” Tracey Filben, Director of Bands, John Marshall High School - Glen Dale, WV
“Oswayo Valley Middle/High School had the opportunity to bring David Wells to our school to perform. I knew that we were getting a concert from a talented musician, but I did not realize that his music would be accompanied by such a powerful message to our students. David discussed choices, compromising, and decision making to our student body in a way that left them wanting more. He incorporated humor by using teacher and student participation, and he shared life experiences that allowed our students to see him as a genuine person. I can't decide which was more inspirational, his words or his music. In any event, David Wells was a big hit with students and teachers alike. It was truly a pleasure having him perform for our school, and we will certainly have him back again. We have had several different motivational speakers and other performers visit our school. David Wells is certainly one of the best because of his ability to reach the students through his music, his message, and his sincere passion for life.” Erik Kincade, High School Principal, Shinglehouse, PA, 814-697-6132
“David Wells recently came to our school and performed for our students. We don't often get the opportunity to bring performers to our school so this was a great chance for our students to smooth jazz. It was also a great chance for them to learn that someone from West Virginia can make it in music performance. We were particularly pleased that David took time to talk to our students instead of just playing for them. We especially liked that he talked to them about their dreams and desires and the fact that they could succeed at anything with a lot of hard work. He also shared his own experiences in terms that middle and high school students can relate. David also took time to stay after his presentation and work with the high school jazz band. It is always good for students to hear someone else reinforce what their teacher has been telling them all along." Wayne Smith, Band Teacher, Tyler County Consolidated High School, 304-758-9000
“I had the distinct pleasure of hosting David Wells at my school. The day included three mini concerts (Elementary, Jr. High & High School) and was a terrific experience for all my students. The third group was comprised of high school students. While they expected great music - to which they were not disappointed- they too were comfortable enough to ask questions relating to David's experience in the music business. I know that the time seemed to end much too quickly. David Wells is a gifted musician who relates personal experiences to any age student. I would recommend any school to consider having him as a guest speaker/performer. He is able to present a quality musical experience that is not only entertaining but motivational as well.” Antoinette Novotny, Wellington Ex. Village Schools-Band Director, 440-647-4286 “I would like to give my full commendation to David Wells. I was lucky enough to have him perform at my school. The performance was prompt and professional. He was very accommodating to my wishes and tailored each performance to suit the group. At our school assembly he had our kids captivated for the entire time. They were swaying along one moment and absolutely silent the next! He was very pleasant to work with and I look forward to working with him in the future. I would recommend him to any school wishing to offer an educational opportunity with a professional musician.” Mark C. Albright, Band Director, Hedgesville Middle School
"Recently we were pleased to have Mr. David Wells do a concert and presentation at our school. He is a phenomenal talent that relates very well to students at all ages. His presentation of music and his message of making important life choices was perfect for our age kids. The 45 minutes that he was performing flew by as he made a personal social impact on our students at a real bargain with our strained resources. I highly recommend his work and presentation." Dwight Goff, Principal, Wirt County Middle School, Elizabeth, WV
“I had the distinct pleasure of hosting David Wells at my school. The day included three mini concerts (Elementary, Jr. High & High School) and was a terrific experience for all my students. The morning "session" included an audience of junior high students. The group was entertained and amazed by David's performance. He also took time out to talk about the "industry" and also answered questions from the students. David Wells is a gifted musician who relates personal experiences to any age student. I would recommend any school to consider having him as a guest speaker/performer. He is able to present a quality musical experience that is not only entertaining but motivational as well.” Antoinette Novotny, Wellington Ex. Village Schools Band Director, 440-647-4286
“David Wells brought a motivating and inspiring message and concert to Nord Middle School. David's performance was encouraging to those students interested in the arts/music. David also Elementary School Recommendations ”David Wells proved to be a wonderful assembly for our students. Students immensely enjoyed the live performance of Mr. Wells's smooth jazz! Our students get little opportunity to enjoy a cultural event of the arts on such a level. Our students had a great time and were enthralled! Mr. Wells involved students and provided opportunity for students to interact while delivering a great message. I would highly recommend, without reservation, Mr. Wells to perform at schools from elementary through high school. I have had great response from my students and faculty following our assembly. Many students have been inspired and continue to comment about Mr. Wells and his performance. Thank you Mr. Wells for a great day!” Mike Bick, Principal, Sardinia Elementary, Eastern Local School District Phone # 446-2250
“David Wells, a native West Virginian, will give your students a rare opportunity to meet a nationally acclaimed musician. He will introduce students to the magical sounds of the trumpet and flugelhorn with his smooth jazz music. David not only shares his musical talents with the students, but an uplifting message of reaching for your dreams. Throughout his show, he actively involves and interacts with the staff and students. The response is enthusiastic! I highly recommend David Wells program for students of all ages! Check out David's web site at www.davidwellsonline.com to experience his true gift.” Barbara M. Ware, Assistant Principal Valley View Elementary, 304-229-1970
“I wanted to thank you again for a wonderful show! The kids and the teachers enjoyed the music and those that purchased CD's listen to them daily, including me. I was amazed at the sounds that you are able to make with your instruments. I will contact you when we begin scheduling assemblies for next year because we would love to have you back at Burke Street School. If you need a reference to schedule upcoming shows please feel free to have the schools call or e-mail me. I would be glad to tell them what a wonderful artist you are and that your assemblies are truly professional. Thanks again!” Todd Cutlip, Principal, Burke Street Elementary School, 304-267-3525
“David Wells performed for our school this past fall. His talent for playing the trumpet was truly awesome. David gave a motivational speech on character which the students loved. I would recommend David Wells' performance to any school. The students will love it.” Sandra Hunton, Wirt County Primary Center Elizabeth, West Virginia, 304-275-4263
“On Tuesday, January 22, 2008, Kenna Elementary School hosted a program presented by David Wells for 362 students. The performance was outstanding! Afterwards, I questioned several staff and students concerning what they learned and if they enjoyed the performance. Everyone stated that it was an excellent learning experience and well worth the time spent. Thus, I fully recommend, if your schedule permits, that you invite Mr. Wells to your school.” Michael A. King Principal, Kenna Elementary School
“Creed Collins Elementary School is located in Pennsboro, West Virginia. We are a rural school with few opportunities to expose our students to fine arts. It was a pleasure to have the opportunity to have David Wells present an assembly to our students. The students at Creed Collins Elementary School range in age from three to approximately eleven. The entire student body attended his assembly and were engaged and entertained. Mr. Wells presented a program that encouraged the students to be responsible. He also encouraged the students to be disciplined. We truly felt honored to have a musician of his talent to present to our students. The children truly enjoyed this entertaining opportunity. If you have questions feel free to get in touch with me.” Deborah R. Beaver, Principal, Creed Collins Elementary School, 512 Collins Avenue, Pennsboro, WV 26415, 304-659-2140
“David Wells is a very talented Jazz Artist who relates well to students and school staff. His musical program was a hit, and very well adapted to our programmatic level. He is flexible with scheduling and professional in his conduct. I would highly recommend David Wells to any school for an educational and crowd-pleasing school assembly.” Paul A. Tyson II, Principal, Hedgesville Elementary, 304-754-3341
“I am so glad that we invited David Wells to perform at Winchester Avenue School (Martinsburg, WV). His program entertained and informed our students. Not only was his music top quality, but his message of Desire, Determination, and Discipline was delivered in a meaningful and entertaining way. I would encourage anyone looking for a topnotch assembly program to contact David Wells. You won't be disappointed.” Dean Warrenfeltz, Principal, Winchester Avenue School, 304-267-3570
“Recently, my school had the privilege of having David Wells perform at an assembly. WOW!!! It was fantastic! David is an accomplished musician who appeals to all age groups. David delivered a message to the students about his early life with music and the three “D's” of being successful-determination, desire and discipline. David's personality was reflected in his interaction with the staff and students. He was great! He is easy to work with and scheduling was a snap. The music David shared with us was phenomenal and most impressive. In conclusion, David Wells will conduct a professional, positive program that will inspire and entertain your students and staff.” Lawrence Hitt, Principal, Tuscarora Elementary School, 304-267-3565
“ I had the distinct pleasure of hosting David Wells at my school. The day included three mini concerts (Elementary, Jr. High & High School) and was a terrific experience for all my students. One of David's assembly included fifth and sixth graders. This group was impressed with David's performance. They were very eager to see him up close and personal. He geared his stories to age-related topics and the students not only heard a great performance but also learned about some "life-lessons". He also had some student participation, which the kids are still talking about! David Wells is a gifted musician who relates personal experiences to any age student. I would recommend any school to consider having him as a guest speaker/performer. He is able to present a quality musical experience that is not only entertaining but motivational as well.” Antoinette Novotny, Wellington Ex. Village Schools-Band Director, 440-647-4286 “The Oswayo Valley Schools, Elementary, Middle and High, had the distinct privilege of presenting to our students an outstanding performer and motivational speaker, David Wells. Not only did David excel at music and the instruments that he played with extraordinary passion, but he truly entertained children and persons of all ages while presenting a message of importance to people of today in the context of your own values. David discussed choices and decision making and personal responsibility, all of which our students and staff needed to hear. I would unabashedly recommend you to other districts as you expand your travels around the country. I know other schools will be equally impressed with what you will bring to their students, staffs and community. Keep up the excellent work on behalf of youth everywhere.” Charles R. Wicker, Superintendent, Oswayo Valley School District, Shinglehouse, PA robert@oswayo.com , 814-697-7175
“As Superintendent of Wood County School, I was very impressed by David Wells' performance at one of our schools. David discussed choices, responsibilities, and decision making. The students, as well as the staff, enjoyed and were moved by his powerful message. He was truly an exceptional motivational speaker, and a very talented musician. I would recommend him highly to other school districts.” William A. Niday, Superintendent, Wood County Schools, 304-420-9663
“I had the pleasure of observing a school wide musical performance by the multi-talented David Wells. David interacted with students and staff on a professional basis while at the same time entertaining them with his musical talent and personality. I thoroughly enjoyed David and his performance. I would highly recommend David for school and group presentations.” David L. Wood, Former Superintendent of Schools Marshall County, WV |
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Bring David IntoYour Local School! A significant facet of David’s career involves reaching into America’s schools with a message of personal discipline, accountability, and the consequences of choices. Visit the schools page to learn more about how David can make a lasting difference in the lives of the young people in your community. 
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