Mr. John Donnell
Percussion Director

Mr. John Donnell is a 2023 Graduate of James Madison University, where he earned his Bachelor of Music in Music Education. After graduation, he began working at James River in the fall of 2023.

Born in D.C. and raised in Fairfax, Mr. Donnell was heavily active in music programs in and out of high school, including marching band, internationally traveling jazz bands, and being a member of the 2018 Jersey Surf Drum and Bugle Corps snare line (Camden County, NJ). While at JMU, Mr. Donnell maintained a vast array of ensembles and activities; he served as the captain for the Marching Royal Dukes Percussion section, and was involved in various ensembles including the Wind Symphony, Symphony Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, Steel Band, and the internationally acclaimed JMU Brass Band. Currently, Mr. Donnell maintains an instructor position with the JMU Summer Band Camps.

Since joining the James River community, Mr. Donnell has led the Regiment Percussion section and has become the Director for Rapid Indoor Percussion, which competes in the Atlantic Indoor Association circuit. Mr. Donnell also took the Symphonic Band to concert assessment, and directs the Anything Goes Show Choir Band. During the school day, Mr. Donnell also teaches Music Technology and Percussion ensemble.

Mr. Donnell resides in Scott’s Addition and likes to cook, play video games, and root for the Washington Commanders with his two cats, Baxter and Beau.

Ms. Maddie Green
Colorguard Instructor

Maddie Green has been involved with colorguard and winterguard since she was in 8th grade at Robious Middle School. She is currently a member of the independent group Revolutionary Winterguard. She has been an instructor for the James River High School Regiment Colorguard and Robious Middle School Raider Winterguard since 2022. She not only enjoys being a part of the sport, but also helping students learn and appreciate the art of colorguard and marching band!