The teacher-conductors we most admire seem to create magic with their ensembles, no matter the performance level of their group, the context they are working in, or the repertoire they are playing. While there are many effective ways of achieving such consistent and spellbinding outcomes, the overall process always entails a cycle of thorough preparation, efficient and inspiring communication, and the ability to draw the best from the musicians in an ensemble. This core session will encompass ideas for improving personal preparation, communicating with ensembles, and leading performances.
Gary Hill is a professor of music and the director of bands emeritus at Arizona State University. He taught at Arizona State from 1999 to 2019 and is one of the most sought-after guest conductors and clinicians in the instrumental music education field. As a conductor, he has made appearances in more than a dozen countries and throughout the United States, including performances with myriad honor bands, numerous college and university wind bands and orchestras, and many professional ensembles. He has also been a conductor at the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic and at conferences of the World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles. As a clinician, Hill has presented hundreds of workshops on conducting and rehearsal technique for music teachers of all levels and has worked with thousands of bands and orchestras and their teachers. Hill is currently a Conn-Selmer educational clinician.