The Midwest Clinic Chat Rooms provide an arena where teachers will learn from and dialogue with expert practitioners. These brief ‘chats’ allow directors a forum for collaboration in a relaxed, intimate environment. The Chat Rooms have limited seating so attendance is granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Michele Fernández
- Biographical Information
Michele
Fernández is an
active clinician/guest conductor, composer and performer. Her original works
for jazz and wind ensemble are available through Hal Leonard, Excelcia/Kendor,
Doug Beach, JW Pepper, Print Music Source/Jazz Zone, and Michele Fernández
Music. Her works have been performed (as well as clinics presented) at Midwest,
CBDNA, JEN, IAJE, MEA’s All-State/Regional bands. Michele serves ensembles of
all ages across the country through virtual or in-person clinics and
Artist-in-Residence events. She recently retired from teaching after 30
years, where her Miami Senior High ensembles earned top honors and gained
international acclaim despite being a Title One school with practically no
resources. Her groups have been selected for appearances at the Midwest Clinic
(Chicago ’93 & ’98), IAJE (Boston ’94, NY ’97), Montreux Jazz Fest
(Switzerland ’96), FMEA and national publications. Michele has been featured on “CBS
Sunday Morning”, Band Director’s Guide and Downbeat Magazine. She has also
taught SPED, ESOL, HS English and Chemistry. Before focusing on writing, she
served as an oboist in the Miami area, and spent several years as a rhythm
section member of a busy local Afro-Latin/Jazz ensemble. As a
clinician/composer: Michele views writing and clinics as an opportunity to
discuss important aspects of life while also focusing on the art form of
performance, and in so doing, to help others gain more self-confidence and an
increased awareness of compassion for others that will lead to success in all
areas of life.