Max Colley Jr., the legendary band director who built Northview High School’s music program into a powerhouse over four decades, has died. He was 76.
Colley, who retired in 2010 after 40 years at Northview, left behind a legacy that extends far beyond the performing arts center that bears his name. Dozens of his former students became band directors and professional musicians, creating what colleagues describe as a generational impact on music education.
“He was a man of integrity and drive and humor and just he was incredible,” said Greg Wells, Northview’s current director of bands, whose father worked alongside Colley for 33 years. “He was everything. He was a giant, well respected by everybody, and very, you know, loving yet intense and just remarkable, visionary.”…