WGI is mourning the loss of Wayne Markworth, inaugural Winds Division Director, Hall of Fame member, and visionary for the indoor marching arts.
Throughout his career, Wayne made an extraordinary impact on music education and the marching arts community through his work with performers and his commitment to advancing the activity. He served in many roles over the years, including consultant, arranger, adjudicator, and instructor for various groups and organizations. Wayne spent 35 years as Director of Bands at Centerville High School, where he established himself as one of the activity’s most respected educators. His work would ultimately extend far beyond the ensembles he led, helping create new opportunities for performers across the country.
Wayne’s journey in the marching arts began during his high school years and grew into a lifelong commitment to music education. After graduating from university, he began his career at Centerville High School, where he directed the symphonic band, jazz ensembles, and marching band. During his tenure, the Centerville High School Marching Band earned 57 finalist appearances at Bands of America regional and championship events, culminating in a Grand National Championship in 1992.
In 2013, Wayne attended preliminary meetings about expanding WGI to include indoor winds competition. Recognizing the possibilities this new division could offer, he became a leading advocate for its creation. The following year, he was selected as WGI’s inaugural Winds Division Director, taking on the responsibility of building a new competitive division within the organization. Over the next decade, he guided WGI Winds through its formative years and the unprecedented challenges of a global pandemic, helping establish its place among the indoor community before transitioning out of the role in 2024.
“Wayne was a dear friend, a trusted colleague, and someone I admired tremendously,” said WGI CEO Ron Nankervis. “When we first envisioned WGI Winds, Wayne believed in what was possible and gave so much of himself to make it a reality. I will always be grateful for the years we worked together, his friendship, and all he gave to WGI. We will miss him more than words can express.”
Wayne Markworth’s impact on the marching arts extends far beyond his remarkable accomplishments as an educator and leader. His passion shaped generations of performers and educators, and his pioneering leadership laid the foundation on which the WGI Winds Division continues to flourish. His steadfast belief in the potential of the indoor marching arts helped redefine what was possible for the activity and those who participate in it. His contributions continue to inspire the WGI community and ensure that every marching member has a place to call home in the winter. Wayne Markworth will be dearly missed.
WGI will share memorial information when arrangements are complete.
