Session Proposals

Marc Decker is an Associate Professor of Music and the Associate Director of Bands/Director of Athletic Bands at Florida Atlantic University where his primary duties include directing the Marching Owls, ‘Parliament Sound’ Pep Band, and Symphony Band. He holds a BME from the University of Illinois and both an MM and DMA from the University of Iowa. A native of the Midwest, he began his career as a high school band director at the coastal town of South Haven, Michigan, and since then has held a variety of academic positions including Conductor-in-Residence at Gettysburg College, Director of Bands at American University, and Director of Instrumental Music and Music Education at Northwestern Oklahoma State University. Dr. Decker is an active adjudicator, guest conductor, and clinician throughout the Midwest and Southeastern United States, and has published and presented at numerous state and national conferences on wind band repertoire, music teacher preparation, and pedagogy.

Conductors communicate musical meaning through gesture, and developing gestures that are both clear and expressive leads to more efficient rehearsals and inspired performances. This interactive session will focus on enhancing your effectiveness on the podium through a hands-on exploration of the art of conducting. Topics include a refresher of the conducting basics, time-efficient practice strategies to refine baton technique, methods for increasing ensemble sensitivity and responsiveness, and practical applications in band repertoire. You'll leave with tools to craft your own gestures that reflect the music, engage the students, and reduce the need for verbal explanations during rehearsal. Bring your baton, clear some space, and get ready for a dynamic and engaging session designed to elevate your conducting.

• Band - Middle School
• Band - Secondary
• Orchestra - Middle School
• Orchestra - Secondary
• Collegiate
• Mentorship/Beginning Teachers