Weston Lewis
University of Texas at Austin
Meet Them Where They Are: The Undergraduate Conducting Curriculum
Conference R
Saturday, February 18th
8:15 am
Clinic Synopsis
The undergraduate conducting course can be a transformative experience for both students and teachers. Formulating a course structure that speaks to the interests and needs of your students is challenging, but may be incredibly rewarding when implemented properly. Drawing from first hand experience, interviews with colleagues across the nation, and research on teaching strategies for young musicians and conductors, Lewis will discuss how using your undergraduate conducting curriculum could be used to inspire curious minds and musicians. Through this lecture and discussion, participants should expect to receive considerations for designing a conducting course that captivates and reflects your students musical identities and goals.
Biography
Weston Lewis is currently pursuing a Doctor in Musical Arts degree in Wind Conducting at the University of Texas at Austin, where he serves as a graduate teaching assistant for the band department. He joined the UT Department of Bands in the Fall of 2021 and assists with all ensembles and undergraduate conducting courses. Weston holds an undergraduate degree in Music Education from the University of Houston (2014) and Master of Music in Conducting from Louisiana State University (2021).
Weston taught at Klein Oak High School from 2014-2019. In his role, he worked with all concert bands and oversaw the IB Music program. At Louisiana State University, Weston assisted with all ensembles including the Golden Band from Tiger Land, Bengal Brass, and the LSU Concert Ensemble. He was also a Co-Chair of the LSU School of Music Student Diversity and Inclusion Organization and is currently a chairperson for the Graduate Wind Conductors Association.