June 5-7, 2024
The UK Conducting Symposium is designed for instrumental conductors and music educators of all experience levels. Conducting participants will receive quality podium time conducting outstanding literature in front of a live ensemble while receiving immediate/interactive feedback from the featured clinician. Each conducting participant will also receive a detailed critique and evaluation from the host clinician immediately following each conducting sessions. Observing participants will join the performing ensemble and engage in all sessions.
Additional sessions focusing on conducting exercises, rehearsal techniques, score study, repertoire, and professional growth will be explored. This symposium will provide a tremendous opportunity for all wind band conductors/music educators regardless of teaching and experience levels, and public school music educators are encouraged to apply.
Professional development credit will be available. Music will be sent to attendees in the spring.
Participants Track
Participants will be given four 15-minute opportunities to conduct a variety of high quality wind band literature and be prescribed conducting exercises to enhance conductor baton technique and ensemble rehearsal skills. Participants are also asked to bring their primary instrument to be a part of the performing ensemble and engage in all the sessions with the conductors and clinicians. Registration for Participant Conducting applicants is limited and requires pre-approval, please apply as soon as possible. Selection of Participants will begin March 8th and the track will close once all seats are filled. $425
Observer Track
Observers are asked to bring their primary instrument to be a part of the performing ensemble and engage in all the sessions with the conductors and clinicians. Observer track is unlimited and open to all. $125
Repertoire
- Second Suite in F for Military Band - Gustav Holst/Matthews
- Lincolnshire Posy - Percy Grainger (Fennell) Movements 1,2,4,5,6
- Variations on America - Charles Ives/Schuman
- Sheltering Sky - John Mackey
- Three Ayres from Gloucester - Hugh Stuart
- The Red Balloon - Anne McGinty
- Infinity - Kataj Copley
- Our Castaways - Julie Giroux
- Diamond Tide - Viet Cuong
Clinicians
- Dr. Cody Birdwell - Director of Bands, University of Kentucky
- Dr. Shayna Stahl - Assistant Director of Bands, Director of Athletic Bands, University of Kentucky
- Dr. Craig Kirchhoff - Director of Bands Emeritus, University of Minnesota
Parking
Visitor parking passes are available through UK Transportation Services.
Housing
The UK Summer Wind Band Conducting Symposium does not include on-campus housing. There are multiple options at hotels, etc. in close proximity to the University of Kentucky campus. More information will be provided as the event approaches.
For more information or to confirm participation contact Cody Birdwell or Abby Temple.