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)
- Mike Bishop (Sound Designer – Carolina Crown, Mike Bishop Design)
- Chris DeVona (James Madison University, Author “Small Band. Big Sound” GIA)
- Todd Marcocci (Under the Sun Productions, WCU)
- Field & Floor FX
- Ian Flint (WCU Drill Designer, 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)
- Dr. Lauren Ryals (Delaware Valley University, WCU)
- Dr. Christopher Adams (President and CEO – 1st Light Leadership Consulting, Retired Superintendent)
- 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!
Susie Harloff - Avon HS and Carolina Crown
Thom Hannum - DCI & WGI HoF
Bobby Lambert - Wando HS
Todd Marcocci - WCU
Dr. Adam Gumble - WCU
Dr. Lauren Ryals - Rutgers
Mike Bishop - Crown, WCU
Prof. Chris DeVona - JMU
Dr. Chris Adams - 1st Light Consulting
Ian Flint - Dartmouth
Dr. Andrew Yozviak - WCU
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