Music Educators Workshop: Creativity in the Instrumental Ensemble Classroom

Creativity in the Instrumental Ensemble Classroom
June 23-27, 2025 | 12:30-5:30PM | Wilson Hall Rm 107 

In this hands-on workshop course, you will explore strategies for cultivating creativity in the instrumental ensemble classroom. Come learn to select and utilize repertoire to better teach creative expression during rehearsal and communicate in ways that inspire artistry and encourage real-world connections. Encourage higher order thinking and build fundamental musicianship as you teach technical and ensemble skills while engaging student listening and imagination.

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About the Instructor: 
Joseph Higgins serves as Director of Bands at Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey, where he conducts the Wind Ensemble and teaches courses in conducting and literature. During his tenure, the program has grown to include multiple directors, three concert ensembles, and the new “Pride of the Profs” Marching Band; ensembles under his direction have premiered over forty new works and collaborated with many world-class artists, including a recent residency with contemporary chamber ensemble Eighth Blackbird. For his exceptional leadership in the classroom, Higgins was awarded the Frances S. Johnson Innovative Teaching Award. He also received the Rowan University Values Award for Inclusivity in recognition of curating a “Music of Social Justice” performance series. In addition to his work at Rowan University, Higgins serves as guest conductor-clinician with outstanding professional, community, and student ensembles throughout the country. His past season included performances in Georgia, Iowa, Massachusetts, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, as well as conducting the 2024 New Jersey All-State Band, Philadelphia Wind Symphony, and United States Air Force Band. He earned doctor and master of music degrees in conducting from Northwestern University, where his primary teacher was Mallory Thompson, and a bachelor of music degree in music education from the University of Georgia. Prior to graduate study, Higgins taught at North Gwinnett High School in Suwanee, Georgia.