Maximize the impact of your music program with strategies to build a culture of excellence, regardless of program size or setting. Participants will gain practical tools to strengthen ensembles, support student growth, and elevate the overall quality of their band or orchestra program.
Michelle Ross
- Biographical Information
Originally from the Midwest, Mrs. Ross earned her Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Missouri, St. Louis, and her Master of Music Education from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, where she studied under James Keene. A flute specialist, she has performed with the St. Louis Philharmonic Orchestra, St. Louis Compton Heights Concert Band, and Carrollton Wind Symphony.
Mrs. Ross joined South Grand Prairie High School in 2012 and became Director of Bands in 2018. Her ensembles consistently earn superior ratings at UIL Marching and Concert & Sight-Reading Contests. The SGP Wind Ensemble has been recognized five times by the Foundation for Music Education as a Mark of Excellence National and Commended Winner. The SGP Percussion Ensemble won the 2023 PASIC International Percussion Ensemble Competition and performed at the 2024 Percussive Arts Society International Convention. Most recently, the Wind Ensemble performed as an Invited Ensemble at the 79th Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic.
Previously, she served as assistant band director at Estacado High School in Lubbock, TX, and at North Forney High School and Brown Middle School in Forney, TX. An active adjudicator and clinician, she is affiliated with the Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, and Texas Music Adjudicators Association. She resides in Mansfield, TX, with her husband, Scott Ward.