This session will discuss a framework for developing musical understanding, literacy, performance, and independence through a variety of collaborative rehearsal methods. Participants will be encouraged to focus on several key factors leading to a rehearsal environment that promotes creativity, risk, discovery, and musical independence, intentional rehearsal language to promote growth and understanding, and aligning assessment opportunities and rehearsal strategies to anticipated student outcomes.
Daniel Berard
- Biographical Information
Daniel Berard is currently the Director of Bands at Grain Valley High School (Grain Valley, MO) where he is responsible for all aspects of the large and vibrant band program. The Grain Valley Band program proudly supports 3 concert bands, 3 percussion ensembles, 2 jazz ensembles, 3 levels of color guard, and the 188-member “Marching Eagles.” Prior to his current position, Mr. Berard held the Director of Bands position at Fossil Ridge High School (Ft. Collins, CO, 2004-2018), Douglas County High School (Castle Rock, CO 1998-2003), and Ponderosa High School (Parker, CO 1993-1998). During his tenure at Fossil Ridge, the Band program grew to national prominence, earning multiple state championships in Marching Band, numerous state awards and consistent “Superior” ratings in concert and jazz performance, and two invitations as a featured ensemble at the prestigious Music For All National Concert Band Festival, held in Indianapolis (2012 & 2016).
Mr. Berard received a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and Master of Music degrees in Music Education and Instrumental Conducting from Colorado State University. He has been a member of the instructional team of several world-class Drum & Bugle Corps, including The Madison Scouts, The Cavaliers, and The Cadets.
Mr. Berard has been named a Yamaha Master Educator, is active as a clinician, adjudicator and conductor, and has presented at numerous clinics and conventions across the country. Mr. Berard has received the National Band Association Citation of Excellence, and in 2012 was named one of the "50 Directors Who Make a Difference" by School Band & Orchestra Magazine.