One thing that all our music programs have in common is that our greatest resource are the students in the room. In this session, we will explore a philosophy of recruitment that values students first, that seeks to remove any and all obstacles that may prevent students from participating in our ensembles, that outlines how to foster a classroom culture that feels welcoming and inclusive, and how to best prioritize building ensembles that better reflect our school population and community.
Chandran Daniel
- Biographical Information
Chandran J. Daniel is currently the director of bands at Thompson Jr. High School for SD 308 in Oswego, IL. This year marks Daniel’s 17th year teaching. His previous positions include K-12 music director at the Hinsdale Adventist Academy, K-8 music director at the Alain Locke Charter School in Chicago, IL, as well as band director at Lincoln Middle School and Edwardsville Community High School in Edwardsville, IL. Daniel received his Bachelors of Music Education from Illinois State University in Normal, IL, and Masters of Music in Music Education from Anderson University in Anderson, SC. Daniel was named as a 2017 Emerging Leader by the Illinois Music Education Association Board of Directors. He is a vocal advocate on issues related to diversity, equity, access, and representation. Daniel has presented professional development sessions at the NAfME National Convention, Illinois Music Education Conference, the National Center for Urban Education, and the Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference. Daniel can be heard playing bass and contra clarinet with Illinois State University Wind Symphony on five albums released through Albany Records. Daniel is the current director of the PrairieWinds Community Band in Oswego, IL, and is an active musician, soloist, guest conductor, adjudicator, and clinician.