Ariel Templeton is the Band Director for the Amherst Elementary Schools and a dedicated freelance trombonist with over 20 years of experience in both teaching and performance. A passionate music educator, she enjoys helping young musicians find their voice through band and is a recipient of the Grinspoon Award for Excellence in Teaching. As a trombonist, Ariel has performed with a wide variety of ensembles across the Northeast, and values the connections and collaboration that music brings. She is proud to represent women in brass and is committed to empowering the next generation of musicians through education, mentorship, and performance.