Marching Arts Education Summit
July 20 - 23, 2026 @ West Chester University
FEatured experiences
Rehearsal Lab Integration
Participants observe and engage with live teaching in real time, including:
- Ensemble rehearsal strategies
- Communication and pacing techniques
- Translating design into performance
Clinician Highlights
Sessions led by nationally recognized educators and designers, including:
- Susie Harloff (Avon HS and Carolina Crown)
- Thom Hannum (DCI and WGI Hall of Fame)
- Bobby Lambert (Lambert Leadership, Dynamic Marching, Music for All, Director of Bands – Wando High School)
- Micki Ferguson and Greg Drane – Penn State University
- Mike Bishop (Sound Designer – Mike Bishop Design)
- Chris DeVona (James Madison University, Author “Small Band. Big Sound” GIA)
- Todd Marcocci (Under the Sun Productions, WCU)
- Marielle Chrupcala (Boston Crusaders, Director of Bands – Dartmouth Schools)
- Dr. Brooke Johnson (University of Delaware)
- Dr. Christopher Adams (President and CEO – 1st Light Leadership Consulting, Retired Superintendent)
- Field & Floor FX
- Ian Flint (Ian Flint Drill Design, Fine Arts Chair – Dartmouth Schools)
- Dr. Adam Gumble (Director – WCU INCOMPARABLE Golden Rams Marching Band, Director of Education – Vivace Productions)
- Dr. Andrew Yozviak (Director of Bands – WCU, Wind Arranger, National Band Association)
- Rachael Urquhart (Quakertown Schools, WBDI)
- Vaughan Sawdon (G2 Performance)
- Matthew Alosi (JW Pepper)
- Libby Ando (Rowan University, Crossmen)
- Sean Rode (West Chester University Front Ensemble)
- and more!!!!
FOR EDUCATORS, BY EDUCATORS!
The Vivace Education Summit is a 3-day immersive professional development experience designed for marching arts educators at all levels. Through a combination of clinics, rehearsal labs, and collaborative sessions, participants will explore leadership, pedagogy, design, and performance through direct application.
Who Should Attend
- Band directors (HS/MS/Collegiate)
- Marching arts staff (winds, percussion, color guard)
- Graduate students and aspiring educators
- Program coordinators and designers
Key Outcomes
Participants will leave with:
- Practical strategies for rehearsal design and efficiency
- Tools to develop student leadership and ownership
- A clearer approach to program design and visual coordination
- Actionable ideas for building culture and connection within ensembles
NOTE: 1-3 Graduate Credits through West Chester University are available – CONTACT US!
Registration Questions? See our Registration FAQs HERE!
PLEASE NOTE:
Marching Arts Education Summit attendees registering as residents (who will be staying in our hotel block) must register by June 20 to be guaranteed a room. Educators commuting to the workshop may register up to the start date.
2026 Workshop Fees
-
Commuter $375
Includes: All Workshop Sessions
-
Student $150
Includes: All Workshop Sessions (Full-Time College Students)
-
Resident (Single Occupancy) $850
Includes: All Workshop Sessions, Single Occupancy Hotel (Breakfast Included)
Early Arrival Available (+$150) -
Single-Day Tuition $150
Includes: Single-Day Workshop Attendance