The 911±¬ÁÏÍø College of Design, Art & Performance School of Music will host the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) regional conference, February 19-21. Expanding on its 2018 role as host institution, USF again brings together national leadership for a multi-day exchange of ideas, repertoire, and performances.
The conference is designed to attract wind band conductors at all levels, from K-12 to collegiate and retired band directors. It welcomes band directors, performers, and educators from across the southeastern United States. While CBDNA holds a national convention every two years, USF hosts regional conferences, inviting the National Band Association (NBA) to join us.
Matthew McCuthen
The USF Wind Ensemble will serve as a featured collegiate ensemble, conducted by Matthew McCuthen, Director of Bands. The ensemble comprises approximately 52 wind and percussion students, selected from the top performers in the School of Music. Under the direction of USF conductors, including McCutchen, Trevor Butts, and Suzanne Charney, the ensemble will anchor the conference's performances and educational sessions.
The Wind Ensemble has earned a national reputation through performances at state, regional, and national conferences. Its eclectic repertoire spans timeless classical pieces to the bold sounds of contemporary composers, offering audiences a chance not only to listen but to experience the music.
The conference will be shaped by featured performances by two middle school bands, two high school bands, six collegiate wind ensembles, and a community band from Atlanta. In addition, there will be several sessions devoted to wind band history, practices, repertoire, and collaboration. "Performing for your peers raises the bar," said McCutchen. "There is an added pressure that pushes everyone, faculty and students alike, to dig deep for excellence."
The conference will highlight José Valentino, a Grammy Award–winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, and USF alumnus. Valentino returns to campus as Guest Artist and Clinician, leading sessions on Latin percussion techniques, improvisation, and entrepreneurship skills.
"When the conference theme turned toward Latin music, José immediately came to mind," McCutchen said. "I was here when he was completing his doctorate, and I have followed his career ever since. When we invited him to headline the conference and perform a concerto with the Wind Ensemble, he leapt at the chance. He rehearsed with the ensemble, getting the students to dance, laugh, and play with great stylistic accuracy."
With multiple ensembles, conductors, and students, the conference creates an energized environment exploring repertoire, ideas, and connections. It reaches new, larger audiences, broadening comfort zones for gathering and sharing musical ideas.