Meet our directors

Jacques Bernard is the visionary Founder and President of Legacy Production Company, created in memory of his father. His musical journey started in his teens, playing trombone with the jazz band, orchestra, and marching band at Hialeah High School, where he graduated in 2004. He further honed his skills at Miami-Dade College Jazz Band and marched with the Boston Crusaders Drum Corp during high school. Afterward, Jacques pursued a fulfilling career in music education, teaching at institutions like Flanagan High and Florida International University. At Legacy, he dedicates himself to nurturing young adults through music and arts education, fostering discipline, creativity, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Jacques is deeply devoted to his family, including his wife, Arelys, and their two beautiful children. As a dedicated family man, he treasures the time spent nurturing their growth and happiness.

Meet Justin Samuels, a visual designer and educator making waves with The Bluecoats, The Cadets, and Legacy Production Company. Based between Texas and California, Justin crafts productions for WGI-winning programs and collaborates with high schools nationally. As part of Legacy, he champions arts education, instilling discipline and creativity in students, leaving a lasting impact in the world of fine arts.

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Arelys Bernard serves as the Treasurer and Visual Advisor at Legacy Production Company, bringing her rich background in color guard and performance arts to the role. Her journey began at Hialeah High School, where she was a key member of the Color Guard team that achieved finalist status at WGI competitions. After graduation, Arelys continued her passion for teaching and developing young talent in color guard at Hialeah High School and Hialeah Gardens. At Legacy, she blends her visual performance expertise with financial oversight, advancing the organization's mission to enrich arts education. Dedicated to her family, Arelys integrates her professional endeavors with a strong commitment to her husband, Jacques, and their two children, fostering a home environment rich in love and creativity.

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Tyler Prescott began his teaching career in 2014, working in the Visual caption for various South Florida schools. He served as a Visual Technician at Flanagan and Cooper City and later became the Visual Caption Head at Hollywood Hills. During the winter seasons of 2016, Tyler transitioned into the logistical side of the activity at Flanagan, expanding his expertise behind the scenes.

In 2019, Tyler became the Associate Director for FIU Winds, working under Jacques Bernard. When Jacques invited him to help create Legacy Production Company in 2021, Tyler knew he had to be part of the team. Now, as the Associate Director for Legacy, Tyler is deeply committed to advancing the organization's mission of enriching lives through music and performance. He works tirelessly to ensure that every member experiences personal growth, discipline, and collaboration—values that lie at the heart of Legacy's purpose.

With a passion for logistics and a drive to make each season impactful, Tyler strives to create an environment where members not only excel in their craft but also take away life lessons that extend far beyond the performance floor. His goal is to foster creativity, teamwork, and a sense of pride, ensuring that every member of Legacy leaves with a lasting connection to their music and their peers.

Legacy Production company is proud to welcome Matthew Torres to our dedicated team of directors! Matthew's performance career began at Somerset Academy, where he graduated in 2015. While there, he spent the summer of 2013 with the Spartans Drum and Bugle Corps. After graduation, Matthew pursued a Bachelors of Music Education from Florida International University. Since then he has taught at Franklin Academy and currently serves as the Director of Bands for Mater Lakes Academy.

With 15+ years in IT and a 20-year music passion, Rafael Sotolongo bridges two worlds. From middle school drumming to instructing at Hialeah High and marching with FIU, his journey intertwines tech and music. While excelling in IT, he stays true to his musical roots. Now, with Legacy Production Co., he shares his passion, inspiring others to reach their potential.