San Francisco Pride Band Welcomes Matthew Fell as New Concert Band Artistic Director

In January 2026, the San Francisco Pride Band will welcome Matthew Fell as its new Concert Band Artistic Director, the 11th in its 47 year history. Following a rigorous, year-long search, the Band voted to offer Matthew the position, recognizing his  thoughtful programming, his engaging rehearsal style, and his kind, humble, and enthusiastic personality that supports the Band’s wide range of backgrounds, identities, and musical abilities. The first concert of Matthew’s tenure will take place on March 22, 2026 at Herbst Theatre in San Francisco.

Matthew is stepping up to the podium after the retirement of Pete Nowlen, who led the concert band for the last twelve years. Matthew joins the Artistic Director of Marching and Pep Bands Michael J. Wong; together they will shape the artistic direction of the organization. As part of the search process, the Band spent time with Matthew, who rehearsed and presented “Rise: Anthems of Resilience” in September. The concert featured introspective and inspiring music honoring the strength of community and the quiet, persistent acts of love that move us forward.

Matthew Fell is an accomplished music educator and conductor with degrees in Music Education and Trombone Performance from Biola University and a Masters in Instrumental Conducting from the American Band College of Sam Houston State University. Currently the Assistant Director of Bands at Amador Valley High School, Matthew co-leads the 300-member marching program and directs the top jazz ensembles. You can read more about Matthew’s background on the Band’s website. 

Matthew expressed his honor at becoming the next Artistic Director of the Concert Band program: . “I have been blown away not only by the musicianship of the ensemble, but by the community and connections I felt in the group before, during, and after rehearsals. The San Francisco Pride Band is deeply engaged in the community and I look forward to being a part of it.”

Matthew said that he intends to program music that is engaging for the audience, fun to perform, and encourages musical growth for the members of the ensemble. “I am especially excited for us to perform incredible music by female, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC composers who traditionally are underrepresented in concert band repertoire.”

Board of Directors President Chris Hewes expressed excitement at how Matthew will bring not just exceptional musicianship and skills as an educator, but also a commitment to the Band’s mission of fostering understanding among diverse communities through public performance. “Matthew’s experience as an educator gives him an understanding of what it means to be a strong LGBTQ+ ally and how to foster a safe, welcoming environment for a diverse group of musicians. We’re so excited to get started on this next chapter for the Concert Band!”

Keep an eye on the Band’s website or join the Band’s email list for more about the upcoming March 22 concert and other future performances.