Wind Conducting Symposium

Calling all conductors! Wind conductors from all levels of experience are welcome. The day will consist of 14 conductor sessions with our demonstration ensemble, the Northern Illinois University Wind Ensemble, led by Thomas Bough, D.M.A.

You can apply to be one of the 14 active conductors or register as an observer. The conductor application deadline is Feb. 1, 2026, or until filled. Active conductors are encouraged to apply early, since these slots tend to fill up quickly. Accepted conductors will be sent a registration link upon acceptance, to secure their spot by paying the fee. Each conductor session includes feedback from our clinicians, Tom Bough and Rodney Dorsey. The event also includes a presentation from Thomas Bough entitled, "Internalize and Apply the Harmony Director.

Guest Clinician: Rodney Dorsey

Rodney Dorsey is Professor of Music at the Florida State University College of Music where he conducts the FSU Wind Orchestra and guides the graduate wind conducting program.

Dorsey comes to FSU from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music where he conducted the IU Wind Ensemble and taught graduate conducting courses. Prior to his tenure at the Jacobs School, Dorsey served on the faculties of the University of Oregon, University of Michigan, DePaul University and Northwestern University. He also gained extensive experience teaching in the public schools of Florida and Georgia.

Dorsey studied conducting with Mallory Thompson, John P. Paynter and James Croft. He was a clarinet student of Fred Ormand and Frank Kowalsky.

During his conducting career, Dorsey has led performances at several prominent events including the American Bandmasters Association Convention, College Band Directors National Conference North/Northwest Regional Conference and the Bands of America National Festival. He is active as a guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator in the United States. International engagements include Hungary, Canada and Bulgaria.

Dorsey’s commitment to community has been demonstrated by his participation on the board of directors for Music for All and the Midwest Clinic. He currently serves as the president of the Midwest Clinic. Other professional memberships include the College Band Directors National Association, National Association for Music Education, Florida Bandmasters Association, Kappa Kappa Psi, Tau Beta Sigma (honorary), Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated. Dorsey is also an elected member of the American Bandmasters Association. Most recently Dorsey was named a Yamaha Master Educator.

Schedule

Literature

• When Stone Becomes Forest by Josh Rodriguez, winner of the 2022 American Prize, Grade 4
• And with this New Day by William Owens, commissioned by the American Bandmasters Association.  Brand new!  (score and audio available from Thomas Bough, tbough@niu.edu) Grade 2.5
• Of Endless Miles and Empty Rafts, Michele Fernandez, (medium easy difficulty)
• Allerseelen, Strauss, arr. Davis (medium difficulty)

Conductor Application

Observer Registration

Registration Fee

Observer: $50

Active conductor: $120

Cancelation policy: Conductor registrations will be refunded if canceled prior to February 1. Observer registrations will be refunded if canceled prior to February 15. After those dates, no refunds will be issued.

Clinicians