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John Shaffer

Music Director

John Shaffer is in his twentieth year as the vocal director and show choir director at  El Paso Gridley Middle and High School. John graduated from Illinois State University in 2003 with his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education and in 2009 with his Master’s Degree in Music Education.

John loves his job at EPG and is extremely grateful for the community support for the EPG music program. He directs the junior high mixed group (Dynamics), the high school unisex group (Hi Fidelity), and the high school mixed group (Modulations).

John treasures spending time with his best friend (and beautiful wife), Nicki, as well as the privilege of raising his three daughters – Lauren (17), Alexis (15), and Chloe (10).  

John’s three passions are Jesus, family, and Butler Bulldogs basketball.

EMMA WIERENGA

Combo Director

Emma Wierenga is in her third year as the band director at El Paso-Gridley High School and Middle School.

Emma graduated from Olivet Nazarene University in 2022 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education, a Bachelor’s Degree in Instrumental Performance, and a minor in Spanish.

At EPG, she leads a competitive marching band, the 5-12th grade concert bands, high school & middle school pep band, the show choir combos, and helps to coach the middle school and high school Color Guard teams.

Emma loves having the opportunity to work with the Combo, and is looking forward to seeing what the choirs can accomplish in the rest of this season!