Kevin Kwaku
Director of Bands
Mr. Kwaku is the director of bands at Belton High School. His responsibilities include leading the Marching 100, conducting the Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band, and leading the Pit Orchestra for the Belton HS musical productions.
Mr. Kwaku has worked at Belton HS since 2019, initially being hired as an assistant band director before moving into the director of bands position in 2022. Prior to Belton HS, he began his career as an assistant band director at JJ Pearce High School in Richardson, TX from 2017-2019.
Mr. Kwaku graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Music Studies and a performance certificate in trumpet. During his time in college, he performed with the UT Wind Ensemble under the direction of Jerry Junkin, and was also a member of the Longhorn Band, serving as a section leader for 3 years and as the drum major in his final year. Mr. Kwaku was also a member of the Bluecoats Drum and Bugle Corps in 2013 and 2015 as a featured trumpet soloist, and was awarded Brass Performer of the year in 2015. Mr. Kwaku is currently a trumpet technician on the Bluecoats brass staff, a role he has held since the 2019 season, in which he helped the drum corps win their second ever DCI championship, along with their first ever Jim Ott High Brass performance award in 2024.
Mr. Kwaku’s professional affiliations include Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Music Adjudicators Association, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia and Kappa Kappa Psi. He greatly enjoys being a part of the Belton High School community and is excited for another great year with the Marching 100!
Chris Kreger
Assistant Band Director/Jazz Band
Christopher Kreger serves as the Assistant Band Director and Jazz Band Director at Belton High School, where he brings a wealth of musical knowledge, energy, and dedication to his students. With a passion for both classical and contemporary styles, Mr. Kreger directs the jazz program, cultivating creativity, improvisation, and a deep appreciation for the art form. In his role as Assistant Band Director, he supports all facets of the band program, from marching and concert ensembles to chamber groups, ensuring students receive a well-rounded and inspiring music education. Known for his approachable teaching style and commitment to excellence, Mr. Kreger empowers his students to grow as musicians and as individuals, fostering a culture of artistry, discipline, and community within the BHS band program.
Ian Smith
Assistant Band Director/Percussion
Ian Smith is the Percussion Director at Belton High School, where he leads all aspects of the percussion program with expertise, energy, and a passion for musical excellence. He directs the Belton Drumline (BDL), marching percussion section, indoor drumline, and concert percussion ensembles, fostering technical skill, musicality, and teamwork in every student. With a strong background in performance and education, Mr. Smith brings innovative teaching methods and a deep understanding of percussion artistry to the program. His leadership not only elevates the ensemble’s musical achievements but also instills discipline, creativity, and confidence in his students. Under his direction, the BHS percussion program and BDL continue to grow as dynamic, high-achieving pillars of the band’s success.
Briana Merritt
Assistant Band Director/Color Guard
Briana Merritt is the Color Guard Director at Belton High School, where she leads the team with creativity, precision, and an unwavering passion for performance. She oversees both the fall marching season and the winter guard program, designing visually stunning routines that combine artistry, athleticism, and storytelling. Drawing from her own extensive performance background, Ms. Merritt fosters a positive and disciplined environment where students can grow as performers and as individuals. Her dedication to excellence and team spirit has elevated the BHS Color Guard into a vibrant, high-achieving ensemble that enhances the M100’s visual and emotional impact at every performance.