Phil started playing in the City Band in 1977 when he began his teaching career at the Junior High. He began filling in wherever the band needed him. This meant playing tuba, baritone, trombone, percussion, and he even ventured into the french horn section. In 1987 he took over the directorship from his mentor Dave Olson. He loves directing this devoted and diverse group of musicians. The band has developed a Dixieland Band and an Old Time Band which Phil also leads and plays in.