Teaching bands and orchestras to play in tune is a challenge that all of us face. Pierre Boulez called this “the most difficult problem in conducting.” Specific strategies that foster better ensemble intonation can seem scarce when compared to techniques for teaching other musical elements. This clinic offers practical, versatile, efficient, and non-threatening ideas for improving pitch from the podium, with emphasis on directed listening skills and situational awareness.
Corey Seapy
- Biographical Information
Corey Seapy is
a dynamic conductor and educator who has spent the last sixteen years
maximizing the artistic potential of a wide variety of ensembles. He serves as
Director of Bands at the University of Central Missouri, where he leads the
Wind Ensemble, teaches courses in conducting and music education, and oversees
the band program. Prior to arriving at UCM, he served as Director of Bands at
Millikin University in Decatur, IL. He is an active guest conductor and
clinician, a Third Place recipient of the American Prize in Conducting, and a
new music advocate who has led many world premieres, including recent works by
Juan Pablo Contreras and Derek Jenkins.
Prior to
living in the Midwest, Dr. Seapy conducted and taught in Massachusetts, where
he served as Music Director of the Charles River Wind Ensemble and Director of
Bands at Ipswich High School. He holds conducting degrees from the University
of Missouri – Kansas City Conservatory (MO) and Ithaca College (NY), and a
degree in Music Education from Gordon College (MA). He lives in Lee’s Summit,
MO, where he spends his free time trying to keep up with two tiny humans and a
dog.