While the most important traits for honor band conductors are great musicianship and teaching, the potent combination of talented students, unfamiliar setting, and not quite enough time presents particular challenges. This session offers philosophical approaches, rehearsal techniques, and logistical considerations to help conductors succeed in the honor band setting—especially those in the position for the first time—and may also be valuable for those who host and administer honor bands.
Travis Cross
- Biographical Information
Travis J. Cross (he/him) serves as professor of music and
director of bands at UCLA, where he conducts the Wind Ensemble and leads the
graduate wind conducting program. He chaired the music department from
2018–2023 and was associate dean for academic mentoring and opportunity during
the initial years of the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music. He previously taught
at Virginia Tech and Edina (Minn.) High School. Cross earned doctor and master
of music degrees in conducting from Northwestern University and the bachelor of
music degree cum laude in vocal and instrumental music education from St. Olaf
College. His principal teachers were Mallory Thompson and Timothy Mahr. Cross
has appeared as a guest conductor, composer, and clinician in nearly 40 states;
Canada, China, Korea, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates;
as featured band clinician at the Texas Music Educators Association
Clinic/Convention; and on several occasions at the Music for All National
Festival and Midwest Clinic. Cross is a member of the Council of Korean
Americans and a Yamaha Master Educator.