Dr. Daniel Farr announced as new Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music
Farr is expected to start July 1, 2024.
Dr. Daniel Farr announced as new Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music
Daniel Farr, D.M.A. received his Bachelor's and Master of Music Education degrees from Florida State University and a DMA in Conducting from The Ohio State University. Previously, he served as Associate Director of Bands for two years at the University of Northern Colorado where his teaching responsibilities included conducting the Symphonic Band, the undergraduate instrumental conducting track, the Marching Band Techniques course, serving on hiring and doctoral committees, overseeing student teachers, and directing the acclaimed “Pride of the Rockies” Marching Band. He studied conducting with Russel Mikkelson, Patrick Dunnigan, Richard Clary, and Alex Jimenez, and clarinet with Deborah Bish. Farr served as a high school band director in the public schools of Florida for 10 years before pursuing his doctorate. Under Farr's direction, ensembles have consistently earned Superior ratings at the Marching Music Performance Assessment, District and State Solo and Ensemble, and District and State Concert MPA.
“I was immediately interested in the Director of Bands position at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú because of the stellar reputation of both the Department of Music and the University,” Farr said. “The opportunity to provide guidance to future music educators while crafting powerful performances with the amazing ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Wind Ensemble is truly humbling. Professor Gary Speck has done absolutely incredible work during his 36 years here and I am so excited to continue his legacy of student-centered music-making.”
Research interests for Farr include commissioning new music for the wind band medium, pioneering performances of music by underrepresented composers, best practices for middle and high school bands, and mental health awareness for music educators. He is actively sought after as a concert clinician and clarinet pedagogue. Farr’s professional affiliations include Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity, the College Band Directors National Association, the Florida Music Educators Association, the Colorado Music Educators Association, the Colorado Bandmasters Association, and NAfME: the National Association for Music Education.
Department of Music Interim Chair and Fisher-Holoviak Endowed Professor Jeremy D. Jones, D.M.A. indicated, "Dr. Daniel Farr brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our Department of Music. His impressive background in music education and conducting, coupled with his dedication to student-centered music-making, makes him an invaluable addition to our faculty. We are thrilled to welcome him to ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University and look forward to the exceptional contributions he will make to our department, the Music Education program, and our distinguished ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Wind Ensemble."