Marching Percussion Ensembles

Schedule

Marching Percussion Unit Directors can choose to receive performance evaluations in either non-competitive or competitive settings. All music directors are encouraged to schedule time for their students to observe other ensemble performances.

All registration forms are reviewed and ensembles are scheduled based on ensemble classification and student crossover considerations. Every attempt will be made to accommodate requested dates. All directors will receive an OrlandoFest handbook with important event information. Final schedules are sent at least thirty (30) days prior to the event.

OrlandoFest Itinerary:

Friday Performances — Marching Percussion Unit Festival performances will be held at the following locations:

• Celebration of Praise (All day Friday performances are available, based upon schedule availability)
• Olympia High School (Performances will be available beginning in the afternoon and evenings)
• Freedom High School (Performances will be available beginning in the afternoon and evenings)

Saturday Performances —Festival performances will be held all day at either of the following locations:

• Celebration of Praise
• Olympia High School
• Freedom High School

The OrlandoFest Awards Ceremony will be held at Universal Studios, inside the Animal Actors on Location Stage, on Saturday evenings.

Please note that the OrlandoFest dates, of April 20-21, 27-28, and May 4th, run in conjunction with a Universal Orlando® Resort special event, called Grad Bash. Due to this special event, both Universal parks will close early and it will also move the OrlandoFest Awards Ceremony to an earlier start time, on April 21 & 28. Further details, will be provided upon your registration for these specific dates.

Complete 2012 OrlandoFest — Marching Percussion Unit Festival Performance Dates:

March 2012 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31	April 2012 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
May 2012 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31	June 2012 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

OrlandoFest is honored and privileged to work alongside of the many talented professional music educators that assist us in adjudicating our festival performances and serving as clinicians for our Performing Arts Education Workshops. Please see our list of those professionals that will be assisting us for the 2011-2012 season of OrlandoFest.

Instrumental Adjudicators
Dr. Donny Allen- Director of Bands, University of Central Florida-Dr. Allen serves as the Director of Athletic Bands and Assistant Director of Bands at the University of Central Florida. His duties include direction and administration of the Marching Knights and pep bands, assisting in the instruction of the concert bands, supervision of Instrumental Music Education Interns, and contributing to teaching of instrumental methods courses. Dr. Allen earned his Doctor of Musical Arts at the University of Memphis, and his Master’s in Music and Bachelor’s in Music Education from East Carolina University. Allen studied conducting with Kraig Alan Williams, Pu-Qi Chiang, Chris Knighten, Scott Carter, William Wiedrich, and Robert Ponto. His participation in master classes with such notable conductors as Jerry Junkin, Jo Ann Falletta, Kevin Sedatole, and Mark Spede has greatly influenced his musicianship.

Mr. John Almeida- Associate Professor of Music-Trumpet- University of Central Florida- Mr. Almeida has been on the Applied Brass faculty at UCF since 1993. His students have received performance degrees from Indiana University, USC in LA, Rutgers, Rice, Appalachian State, and Vandercook College of Music. His award-winning students have been first place winners in the International Trumpet Guild Solo Jazz Competitions, members of the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, the US Army Jazz Ambassadors, the US Navy Band, the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

Mr. David Bjella- Associate Professor of Cello/Director of the Chamber Music program- Stetson University-Mr. Bjella is the Co-Principal of the IRIS Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Michael Stern and a member of the Inman Piano Trio represented by Phillip Truckenbrod. He was one of the featured IRIS chamber musicians for the Naxos released CD “Music of Stephen Hartke” which was chosen as a Top Ten Classical Recording of 2003. Mr. Bjella has also served as Visiting Associate Professor of Cello at Florida State University, Professor of Cello at the University of Central Florida and taught in the Valade Master Teacher program at the Interlochen Center for the Arts in Michigan. David Bjella received his Bachelor of Music Degree under the tutelage of John Ehrlich. He then studied with the late Stephen Kates at the Peabody Conservatory of Music while earning his Master Degree and receiving the Isreal Dorman String Award.

Dr. Brian Brink- Director of Instrumental Studies- Florida Southern University- Dr. Brink has served as an adjunct instructor and assistant professor in the music department for a number of years. He joined the faculty, at Florida Southern, with a specialty in brass arts. Dr. Brink completed his master’s in music at the University of North Texas and earned his doctorate in performance/trombone from The Florida State University in 1998. Since coming to Florida Southern, Dr. Brink organized the design and construction of the 12-unit music technology lab and 13-unit piano lab on campus. He has played a significant role in Florida Southern’s summer band camps since summer 2000, and he directs the Florida Southern Jazz Ensemble.

Dr. John C. Carmichael- Director of Bands/Professor of Conducting- University of South Florida-Dr. Carmichael graduated from Florida State University (1974), USF (1985), FSU (1994). Prior to 1989, Dr. Carmichael served as director of several Florida school bands, the most recent being Lakeland High School which appeared twice at the Mid-West International Band and Orchestra Clinic and was awarded the Sudler Flag of Honor. He was President of CBDNA Southern Division and has been a member of the NBA executive board. His research on the 1926 Donaueschingen Festival band music has been widely cited. His bands have performed numerous conferences and have been regularly involved in commissioning projects. He is in demand as a conductor, and clinician throughout the United States.

Mr. Per Danielsson- Assistant Professor- Jazz- University of Central Florida-Mr. Danielsson is a Jazz pianist, composer, arranger, writer and educator, Per Danielsson is a native of Stockholm, Sweden. After formal piano studies in Sweden, which included lessons with Robert Malmberg and world-renowned jazz pianist Bengt Hallberg, his love of jazz brought him across the ocean to attend the internationally acclaimed North Texas State University. An active performing career followed, appearing often as a guest artist, soloist, clinician, and sideman. After fifteen years as a professional musician, Per received his Bachelor of Music from Rollins College and completed his Master’s degree in jazz studies at The University of South Florida. While there he studied composition and arranging with one of the finest jazz writer/arrangers of today, Chuck Owen.

Mr. Anthony Hose- Associate Professor of Music- Stetson University, FL- Mr. Hose has served as the Glyndebourne Festival Opera staff conductor and member of music staff, Wexford Festival chorus master and assistant conductor, Welsh National Opera chorus master (5 years) and head of music (10 years), Musical director of The Madrigal Players, Music and Artistic Director of Buxton Festival, Artistic Director of Beaumaris Festival, Artistic Director of Llandudno October Festival, Artistic Director of Rhyl Easter Festival, Principal Conductor of Welsh Chamber Orchestra. He was for many years a professor at the Royal College of Music and Royal Academy of music, and has given orchestral, opera, and lieder masterclasses throughout Europe. He was appointed orchestra conductor of Stetson University in the fall of 2000.

Dr. J. Jossim- Director of Bands- Florida Southern College- Dr. Jossim received her Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from the University of South Florida (1983), her Masters Degree in oboe performance from the Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver (1985), and was appointed interim conductor of the Lamont Symphony Orchestra. While in Denver, Dr. Jossim became the Music Director/Conductor of the Broomfield Civic Orchestra and the Golden Youth Symphony. In addition to her orchestral activities she also taught middle school band and general elementary music in the Cherry Creek and Englewood public school system. She attended The Florida State University where she earned the Ph.D. in Music Education (1999). Currently the she is Director of Bands at Florida Southern College. She is also co-director of the Lakeland based Hollingsworth Winds and Past-President of the Florida College Music Educators Association.

Dr. Thomas Keck- Associate Director of Bands- University of Miami- Dr. Keck is Associate Director of Bands at the University of Miami Frost School of Music – Coral Gables, FL. In this capacity he conducts Symphonic Winds, directs the Band of the Hour Marching Band, and teaches courses in music education and conducting. Dr. Keck holds degrees in conducting and music education from Arizona State University, University of Iowa, and University of Illinois. He has professional experience as a percussionist in symphonic and improvisatory settings and has performed and instructed with several DCI marching arts ensembles. Dr. Keck has conducted honor bands and chamber festivals as well as arranged music and written drill for many high school bands.

Dr. Matthew McCutchen- Associate Director of Bands & Director of Athletic Bands- University of South Florida- Dr. McCutchen’s responsibilities at USF include directing the 300-member “Herd of Thunder” Marching Band, overseeing the university’s Pep Band, conducting the Symphonic and Concert Bands, and teaching courses in conducting and music education. Dr. McCutchen earned a Ph.D. in Music Education with an emphasis in Instrumental Conducting from Florida State University, a Master’s degree in Conducting from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Furman University.
Dr. McCutchen’s teaching experience spans from middle school to the university level. His public school positions include four years at Thomson Middle School in Thomson, Georgia and five at Atlee High School in Hanover County Virginia.

Ms. Julie Peluso- Choreographer & Music Events Director-Ms. Peluso is an accomplished director and choreographer whose work has been seen by audiences around the world. Her roots in dance and music began with the Walt Disney Company, where she began her career as a performer at Disneyland. As part of the opening team for Toyko Disneyland, she was responsible for staging atmosphere talent and numerous parades and shows.

Mr. Tony Peluso- Music Producer and Music Events Coordinator-Mr. Peluso’s background includes developing and managing large caliber entertainment venues, special events, and music production. He spent a large portion of his career with the Disney Company beginning as musical coordinator at Disneyland to the General Manager of Disney World’s Pleasure Island. Tony earned his Master of Music Education degree from the Eastman School of Music and Bachelors from DePaul University.

Mr. Jeff Rupert- Professor and Director of Jazz Studies- University of Central Florida- Mr. Rupert is a tenor saxophonist, full professor and Director of Jazz Studies at UCF, and the founder of Flying Horse Records. Recording credits include Diane Schuur, Mel Torme, Benny Carter’s Grammy winning “Harlem Renaissance”, Sam Rivers, Maynard Ferguson, plus four quartet recordings. Performance venues include the Blue Note, Birdland, Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Tokyo Forum. Rupert founded The Jazz Professors whose latest recording charted for fourteen weeks and peaked in the top twenty.

Mr. Dave Schreier- Assistant Director of Athletic Bands- University of Central Florida- Mr. Schreier conducts and instructs the Marching Knights, Jammin’ Knights Pep Band, all 3 Concert Ensembles, and the Tuba/Euph Ensemble at UCF. He also teaches courses in Music Education. Before teaching at UCF, he was the Director of Bands at Osceola High School in Kissimmee. Mr. Schreier holds a Bachelor of Music Education and a Master of Arts in Music (Conducting), both from UCF. Mr. Schreier is a sought after Clinician, Guest Conductor, and Adjudicator in the state of Florida. He is a member of CBDNA, FMEA, MENC, FBA, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Pi Kappa Lambda, and Kappa Kappa Psi.

Mr. Jeff Thomas- Professional Musician and Educator- Mr. Thomas received his Bachelors Degree in performance from The Florida State University, and his Masters studies and graduate teaching fellow at University of North Texas. He has Taught at Rollins College and Lynn University as adjunct applied trombone instructor. Principle Trombone, Orlando Philharmonic, Past Principle with Sararsota Symphony Orchestra, Performed as Clinician and soloist with orchestras and bands across the United States and Canada. Recording artist on the the Summit Brass label. Performed recorded and toured with the Dallas Brass, also played with Proteus 7, Rhythm and Brass as well as numerous name acts and show across the country. An active studio recording musician for companies like Warner Bros. Walt Disney World , Southern Music and many more. Extensive work in the field as a Broadway Show musician, Opera, Ballet and show pit musician.

Dr. Scott Tobias- Associate Director of Bands/Assistant Professor of Music- University of Central Florida-Dr. Tobias responsibilities include conducting the Wind Ensemble and Concert Band, as well teaching courses in conducting and music education. Prior to his arrival at the University of Central Florida, Dr. Tobias served as Associate Professor of Music and Associate Director of Bands at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. Dr. Tobias has also served as the Director of Bands at Sumter High School in Sumter, South Carolina, and at Central High School in Macon, Georgia. While in Macon, Dr. Tobias also served as the conductor of the Macon Symphony Youth Orchestra. Bands under Dr. Tobias’ direction have performed nationally and internationally at events such as the Bands of America National Concert Band Festival, the Western International Band Clinic, the London New Year’s Day Parade, the Cabalgata de Reyes (Madrid, Spain), the University of Georgia January Festival, and the University of South Carolina Band Clinic. In 2009, Dr. Tobias was named a recipient of the University of North Carolina Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award. In 2010, Dr. Tobias received the Hayes School of Music Outstanding Teacher Award at Appalachian State University.Dr. Tobias remains active as an adjudicator and clinician throughout the United States.

Ms. Robyn Wilkes- Director of Instrumental Studies- State College of Florida in Bradenton-Ms. Wilkes conducts the wind ensemble, orchestra, and teaches classes in music appreciation, music history, and music theory. In addition to her responsibilities at the college, Ms. Wilkes is also the conductor of the Sarasota Pops Orchestra, former conductor of the Sarasota Orchestra Youth Symphony, conductor of the Advanced Band for the Sarasota Orchestra Music Camp, and performs at area churches on trumpet and percussion. Ms. Wilkes is a member of the Music Educators National Conference, Florida Music Educators Association, Florida Bandmasters Association, Florida Orchestra Association, Women Band Directors International, and the National Band Association and is currently President of the Women Band Directors International. She has received the Silver Baton Award from that organization and has been recognized by GMEA for her outstanding contributions to music education in 2004 and 2006. In 2007, Ms. Wilkes was awarded the Citation of Excellence.

Mr. Jack Wilkins- Professor of Jazz Studies- University of South Florida- Mr. Wilkins is Director of the Jazz Studies program, teaches courses in jazz improvisation, jazz styles and analysis, and jazz history, coordinates the jazz combo program, and teaches applied jazz performance to seniors and graduate jazz studies majors. He served as the formerly Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies and Saxophone at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, Mr. Wilkins has held faculty positions at Appalachian State University, the University of North Carolina, and as a graduate teaching assistant at Indiana University. Jack Wilkins is a Yamaha Instrument Company Artist and an active performer, clinician and adjudicator, and a long time member of the faculty of the Jamey Aebersold Summer Jazz Workshops. His publications include the Essential Jazz Etudes series by Mel Bay Publishing, and the software based multimedia textbook Jazz: The Great American Art Form, by Faulkner Press. Jack Wilkins has released 5 CD’s, including his latest, “The Blue and Green Project” on Summit Jazz. Jack Wilkins can also be heard on the critically acclaimed recordings by Chuck Owen and the Jazz Surge big band, including the Grammy nominated Comet’s Tail, on Mama Records.

Venues

OrlandoFest Itinerary:

Friday Performances —Marching Percussion Unit Festival performances will be held at the following locations:

• Celebration of Praise (All day Friday performances are available, based upon schedule availability)
• Olympia High School (Performances will be available beginning in the afternoon and evenings)
• Freedom High School (Performances will be available beginning in the afternoon and evenings)

Saturday Performances —Festival performances will be held all day at either of the following locations:

• Celebration of Praise
• Olympia High School
• Freedom High School

The OrlandoFest Awards Ceremony will be held at Universal Studios, inside the Animal Actors on Location Stage, on Saturday evenings.

The performance venues at Celebration of Praise, Olympia and Freedom high schools are located in close proximity to Universal Orlando® Resort in Orlando. These venues are equipped with the tools and ample space for your festival performance.

The OrlandoFest Awards Ceremony will be held at Universal Studios®, inside the Animal Actors on Location Stage, on Saturday evenings.

Performance locations are subject to change.

Awards Ceremony

An exciting, high-energy OrlandoFest Awards Ceremony will take place in selected venues at Universal Orlando® Resort (subject to change with notice) each festival performance weekend! This fun and high-energy awards ceremony will take place on Saturday evening and will include the presentation of awards and entertainment.

Directors will be asked to select two (2) student representatives from each performing ensemble, in advance, to join them on stage to receive their awards. Casual attire is acceptable for the awards ceremony but must be appropriate for the stage. (Participants with attire in poor taste will not be allowed to represent their ensemble during the awards ceremony)

OrlandoFest Participation Award

All ensembles will receive an OrlandoFest participation award. This award will display the ensemble’s name, school name, and festival rating. (Ratings will be awarded for groups selecting “comments only”. Groups selecting comments only will not be eligible for division or grand champion awards)

Division Awards

OrlandoFest Gold, Silver and Bronze awards will be presented to the three highest scoring Ensembles within each Division and Classification.

• Concert Choir
• Chamber/Specialty Choir
• Show Choir
• Concert Band
• Concert Orchestra
• Concert Percussion
• Jazz Band
• Parade Band
• Marching Percussion
• Auxiliary Units

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OrlandoFest Grand Champion Awards

OrlandoFest is pleased to award custom-made Grand Champion Awards to the highest scoring superior-rated ensembles each festival weekend, within the following classifications, regardless of division, provided there are two (2) or more competitive ensembles within the classification. These are:

Concert Band ● Concert Choir ● Concert Orchestra ● Jazz/Parade Band ● Chamber/Specialty Choir*
(Chamber/Specialty Choir includes: Show Choir, Gospel Choir, and Madrigal Choir).