This session explores what we hope to accomplish (and what we hope to provide our students) as conductors and teachers; the fundamental relationship between conductor, score, and ensemble; and common barriers to success, progress, and growth. Though primarily philosophical in nature, the session also includes participation in technical and expressive gestural exercises.
Travis J. Cross (he/him) serves as professor of music and director of bands at UCLA, where he conducts the Wind Ensemble, leads the graduate wind conducting program, and chairs the music department. He was also associate dean for academic mentoring and opportunity during the initial years of the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music. Cross has conducted the UCLA Wind Ensemble at the California All-State Music Education Conference and College Band Directors National Association Western/Northwestern Division conference and prepared the band for centenary performances of Leonard Bernstein’s Mass with Gustavo Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.