Wind Band Conducting Workshop Returns to Ted Mann Concert Hall
July brought the return of the Wind Band Conducting Workshop to the Ted Mann Concert Hall stage for the first time since 2019. The 2022 workshop welcomed 31 participants from 13 U.S. States, Canada, Oman, and Singapore.
Led by Dr. Rodney Dorsey (Indiana University / Jacobs School of Music) and University of Minnesota Bands Faculty, the five-day in-person workshop explored pedagogy of conducting and ensemble teaching. It also focused on issues that confront instrumental music educators at all levels: artistry, authenticity, technique, rehearsal strategies, repertoire and programming, advocacy, and more. All faculty clinicians aimed to strengthen and broaden participants’ perspectives on the craft of conducting and the art of teaching.
In addition to registered participants, the workshop engaged musicians from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Medalist Concert Band, members of Encore Wind Ensemble, Neoteric Chamber Winds, as well as local freelance musicians. It was wonderful to connect and make music together!
Director of Bands Emily Threinen had high accolades for the workshop attendees. “Our guest participants were wonderful and they came from all across the nation and abroad; all individuals were eager to try new ideas, were attentive and engaged, had thoughtful questions, shared interesting perspectives, and seemed genuinely happy to be with us on our beautiful campus. Working with each person was very fulfilling and rewarding.”
Threinen, UMNBands faculty members, and School of Music staff members worked diligently behind-the-scenes to ensure a smooth experience. “This year's workshop was a thrill to execute, as we have not been able to host such an event on campus since summer 2019. Creating and hosting such an event takes hours of work, energy, and creativity. We are so grateful to all faculty, staff, and students who helped make this event a reality, and most especially thankful to our Ensemble Operations Manager, Nicole Radotich, who served as the primary correspondent and coordinator.”
The team’s dedication earned them rave reviews from the participants. One attendee noted that the conducting faculty “..created a safe and inviting environment to conduct. They are so knowledgeable and inspiring. This workshop rekindled my passion for music making." Another said the clinicians were “very helpful and encouraging” and that the workshop was “such a positive atmosphere to make music.”
Additional community collaborators included Custom Batons, Music Connection, Schmitt Music, and Yamaha.
