53rd annual Ohio Band Directors Conference

The University of Akron Bands invite you to attend the 53rd annual Ohio Band Directors Conference. All concert performances will be presented in the Student Union Ballroom (3rd Floor) on the campus of The University of Akron. Parking is available in Lot 37 – off of Carroll Street (See on campus map).

Register for the OBDC Conference

No Pre-Registration is required for attendance - all events are FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

The OBDC Hall of Fame Luncheon is open to all directors, but availability is limited. Register here.

Performances & Presentations

The 2024 OBDC Conference will feature performances by:

• UA Wind Symphony - Galen S. Karriker, conductor
• UA Symphony Band - Michelle Bell, conductor
• UA Concert Band - Galen S. Karriker & Michelle Bell, conductors
• 2024 OBDC All-Star "Director Recommended" High School Honor Band - Jonathan Helmick, conductor
• 2024 OBDC High School Honor Band
  Alfred Watkins, conductor

Featured ensembles will include:

• Orange High School Wind Ensemble, Brandon Duvall, conductor
• Strongsville High School Wind Ensemble, Brian King, conductor
• Westlake High School Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Hilary Patriok, conductor

Guests will include:

• Guest Composer: Julie Giroux
• All-Star Band Guest Conductor: Jonathan Helmick
• Honor Band Guest Conductor: Alfred Watkins

Highlights of the event will include the recognition of the OBDC Hall of Fame members and the 2024 Inductee. This award is given to an outstanding retired public school band director who has promoted excellence in music education throughout his or her career. This award is presented during the OBDC Honor Band concert, comprised of musicians representing high schools from throughout the state of Ohio.

We hope you join us for an exciting and rewarding day and please encourage your colleagues and students to attend the annual Ohio Band Directors Conference!