Guest Composer/Conductor

Samuel R. Hazo Composer/Conductor for the 2008 Conference

Recipient of the National Band Association's 2001 Biennial Composition Award, Samuel R. Hazo has received commissions at the professional, university, and public school levels in addition to composing original scores for television, radio, and the stage. His original symphonic compositions include performances with actors Brooke Shields, James Earl Jones, David Conrad, and Richard Kiley. He has also written arrangements for three-time Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter Lucinda Williams.

His works have been premiered by professional, university, and all-state and honor bands at the Music Educators' National Conference (state and national), Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, National Band Association Convention, and Texas Bandmaster's Convention, as well as being featured in full-length programs on National Public Radio.

Mr. Hazo has served as a music teacher at every grade level, kindergarten through college, including tenure as a high school and university band director. He received his bachelor's and master's degrees from Duquesne University, where he has served on the Board of Governors and was named Duquesne's Outstanding Graduate in Music Education. He serves as a clinician and is currently on the music faculty in Pennsylvania's Upper St. Clair School District. His original compositions are published by Boosey & Hawkes (New York / London), FJH Music, and Wingert-Jones Publications. He resides in Pittsburgh with his wife and two children.

Western Michigan University is pleased to welcome guest composer/conductor Samuel R. Hazo as the School of Music celebrates its 40th annual Spring Conference on Wind and Percussion Music.