Festivals provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate their music-making process and receive feedback on their performance. This session will explore why educators invest time, energy, and resources in these experiences and how to make them more meaningful and impactful for students.
We will discuss strategies for selecting repertoire that fits an ensemble’s strengths, designing rehearsals that develop technical skills and expressive playing, and guiding students through the logistical and emotional aspects of performance. Drawing on experience as a music educator at the secondary and collegiate levels, and as an adjudicator and clinician at local, regional, and state festivals, the clinician will share insights into common pitfalls and ways to avoid them. Participants will explore approaches to foster student ownership and cultivate a positive culture around festival participation.
Attendees will leave with practical resources and fresh perspectives to help their ensembles perform with confidence, artistry, and an understanding of why the festival experience matters.
Target Audience
High School and Middle School Band
Additional Notes
Clinician Info
Vu Nguyen
University of the Pacific
Vu Nguyen is an associate professor of music and director of bands at the University of the Pacific. He conducts the Pacific Wind Bands, and he teaches courses in conducting and music education. Ensembles under his direction have performed at state music educator conferences, at the Midwest Clinic, and at the College Band Directors National Association Conference.
Nguyen holds degrees in conducting from the University of Washington and the University of Oregon, and he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in music education from the University of the Pacific. Prior to his appointment at Pacific, he served in similar roles at the University of Connecticut, University of Indianapolis, and Washington University in St. Louis. He began his teaching career in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. In addition to his academic career, Nguyen served as the commander and conductor of the Air National Guard Band of the West Coast.