Following Tuesday’s Board of Trustees meeting, Torey Riser was announced as Ninety Six High School’s new Interim Band Director. Riser replaces longtime Band Director David Vickery, who is retiring after a distinguished career dedicated to students and music education.
Riser currently serves at Ninety Six High School, where he has directed and supervised a nationally recognized percussion program since 2014. Over more than 15 years in public education, Riser has led successful middle and high school music programs, emphasizing student engagement and musical growth. Under his direction, the percussion program has gained national recognition, earning a Bronze Medal at the Winter Guard International (WGI) PSA World Championships in 2022 and a WGI PSO World Championship finalist placement in 2023, while competing at the WGI World Championships six times. The program has established a tradition of excellence, including 10 South Carolina Band Directors Association (SCBDA) 1A Marching Band State Championships and four SCBDA PSA Indoor Percussion State Championships in 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018.
Prior to joining Ninety Six High School, he served as Director of Bands at Westview Middle School and Brewer Middle School in Greenwood, where he was recognized as Westview Middle School’s First-Year Teacher of the Year and a district finalist in 2012–2013. He also served as Director of Bands at Robert Smalls Middle School and previously worked with the band program at Greenwood High School, where he composed marching band music and helped lead the program to its highest competitive placement at the time.
Riser holds a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Lander University and recently earned a Master of Education in Instructional Technology from Lander in December 2024, graduating with a 4.0 GPA.
“Mr. Riser has demonstrated a commitment to student achievement and musical excellence throughout his career,” Ninety Six Principal Fitz Sprowl said. “His leadership and passion for music education, and strong connection to the Ninety Six community, will help continue our tradition of excellence in our band program.”
“Mr. Vickery has built an outstanding legacy within the Ninety Six band program that is recognized state-wide,” Riser said. “His dedication and mentorship have shaped the lives of countless students, including myself as a music educator. I’m looking forward to serving in this new role with the district and grateful for his many contributions to our school district and community.”
Riser will begin his duties as Band Director for the 2026 - 2027 school year.