Erik Stone is an educator, conductor, and arts leader dedicated to building community through creative learning experiences. He currently serves as the Director of Bands, Vocal Music, and Media Arts Teacher at Gordon Parks Academy in Wichita, Kansas, where he designs vibrant, student-centered programs that integrate performance, technology, and cultural connection.

A native of the Kansas City metropolitan area, Erik earned both his bachelor’s degree in Special-Instrumental Music Education and his master’s degree in Music Education from Wichita State University. Since entering the profession, he has worked with musicians across all levels—from beginning instrumentalists to collegiate and professional ensembles—and is widely recognized for cultivating spaces where students feel seen, valued, and inspired to excel. Under his leadership, students have consistently received superior ratings at local and state festivals, showcasing their strong musicianship and authentic joy for performing. His students are also active performers in the Wichita community. Administrators and colleagues frequently note the deep respect between Mr. Stone and his students, a reflection of his relational and culturally responsive approach to education.

Erik is a highly sought-after guest conductor, adjudicator, clinician, marching band drill writer, choreographer, author, and presenter. His leadership and contributions to the Kansas music community have earned significant recognition. Erik received the Kansas Bandmasters Association Outstanding Young Bandmaster Award in 2017, was named Wichita Public Schools’ Distinguished Teacher of 2023 for his innovative and relationship-centered programming, and was selected as a Kansas Teacher of the Year finalist in 2025. As a finalist, Mr. Stone spent months traveling the state of Kansas, advocating for education while presenting to future teachers, current teachers, district level administrators, and state legislators. 

Most recently, in January of 2026, he was honored nationally as one of Yamaha’s 40 Under 40—their premier recognition of impactful music educators across the country. 

Beyond the classroom, Erik serves as the Social Media and Marketing Manager for the Kansas Music Educators Association and Kansas Bandmasters Association. He is an active member of Phi Beta Mu and Mu Phi Epsilon and is a published author with The Instrumentalist Magazine.

At home, Erik is often found listening (and singing loudly) to his favorite musicals, working on home projects, and spending time with his miniature dachshund, Maleficent. No matter the setting, his work is driven by a simple belief: music is a pathway to belonging—and when students feel connected, they flourish.