High School Conductor

Recognized string pedagogue and conductor, Scott Laird, serves on the faculty of the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics where he is Fine Arts Chair and Instructor of Music.  Noted for his innovative approach to ensemble development and musicianship, Laird is a frequent conductor of honor orchestras and is a sought-after conference presenter.  He regularly performs on acoustic and electric violin and is known for his abilities in both the classical and improvisatory arena. Laird was the recipient of the 2022 ASTA President’s Award for Outstanding Service, 2019 UNC Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award, 2017 ASTA Elizabeth A. H. Green Award,  and North Carolina Symphony’s 2016 Maxine Swalin Award.  He has served on the National Boards of the American String Teachers Association and El Sistema USA.  He has served as President of the NC Chapter of ASTA, Chair of the NCMEA Orchestra Section and maintains a presence as a national leader in string education.   He earned his B.S. in Music Education and his M.A. in Violin Performance from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where he studied violin with Prof. Delight Malitsky. He earned his National Board Certification in 2004 and recertified in 2013 and 2023.  His blog, “Thoughts of a String Educator,” enjoys broad readership in the music education community. In addition, Laird serves as a sponsored artist and educational specialist for D’Addario Bowed Strings, Coda Bows, Conn Selmer, and NS Design Electric Violins.