Without Mr. Aylward, there is a hole in our band community. It has affected every student, completely altering the positive and safe environment of the program.  Mr. Aylward is the person who has worked very hard for his 22 years at Miamisburg to make the program what it is today. Going forward, the band program will continue to divide and deteriorate without our cherished director.

Mr. Aylward is a very well-respected member of many band associations. He has been the caption head for general effect in the OMEA (Ohio Music Education Association) for several years. He is also well respected across the state for running the most inclusive band program. In 2024, Mr. Aylward earned the Erin Ritchey Memorial Award, which recognizes supporters of people with developmental disabilities whose personal or professional efforts have contributed significantly to improving the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities.  He always ensures that anyone and everyone has an opportunity to be part of a loving band community. 

Under his direction, the Miamisburg band program has grown to be one of the more successful programs in the state of Ohio. The concert band and jazz band programs have achieved acclaim throughout the state and region. Since 2014, the Miamisburg Marching Band has been a 7-time Bands of America Regional Finalist, a 2-time Regional Class Champion, and a 3-time Grand National Semifinalist. In both 2015 and 2019, the band was named the Grand National Bronze Medalist in Class AA. He is also a co-founder and co-director of the Miamisburg Indoor Winds. Since its founding in 2016, the ensemble has been an 8-time WGI Scholastic Open Finalist and was named the Scholastic Open Champion at the 2022 WGI World Championships.

Mr. Aylward is the type of teacher who shows up for any student of any background. He has forgiven band fees for those facing financial hardship, supported students with learning disabilities, and consistently checked in with those needing extra support. Beyond that, he models and teaches incredible leadership skills that stay with students for life. Additionally, he makes every single student feel valued and seen by communicating effectively and even just joking around with each of his students individually. He is also the teacher who, when students don’t have anyone to walk with them for senior night, he does. It is very important to him that everyone is included in everything and no one gets left behind. Every student in the band program experiences Mr. Aylward cheering for them, crying with them, laughing with them, and smiling alongside them. Taking away Mr. Aylward is also taking away a safe space for many students.

For the sake of 150+ students, please help us support and protect Mr. Aylward.