The clinician will facilitate a discussion on the nature of a music education career as it pertains to the general acceptance of the struggle to balance personal and career lives. Resilience, emotional cost, and appreciative inquiry will be discussed as the possibility of thriving unbalanced are explored. Real time reflection and sharing of ideas will be encouraged.
Target Audience
All music educators
Additional Notes
Clinician Info
David Betancourt
David Betancourt has been the Director of Bands at Cerritos College in Norwalk, California since 1999. Beyond performing as the showcase ensemble at various jazz and band festivals, the bands at Cerritos College take great pride in performing in countless civic events and participating in social outreach at hospitals and shelters. Dr. Betancourt was recognized as Outstanding Faculty in 2015 and Most Outstanding Faculty in 2016. He remains active as a conductor for numerous regional honor bands. He dedicates significant time as an adjudicator and clinician with organizations such as Music in the Parks and Forum Festivals and holds a busy travel schedule of ensemble clinics with on-site school visits. His presentations at state and regional music conferences cover a wide range of topics, including: conducting, rehearsal techniques, score study, advocacy, teaching philosophy, best practices, recruitment, and more. Whether he is facilitating professional development, rehearsing his own ensembles, conducting an honor band, presenting at leadership or music conferences, or giving a keynote address, his passion for “teaching about life through music with positive forward momentum” is a central theme that is woven into his career and lifestyle. Dr. Betancourt holds a DMA in music education from the University of Southern California, an MM in instrumental conducting from Northern Arizona University, and a BM in music education and performance from Berklee College of Music. He is Past President of the Music Association of California Community Colleges (MACCC), President of CMEA-SES, and past Chair of the Board for the California Community College Council on Staff Development.