Faculty & Staff

Daniel J. Farris is Director of Athletic Bands at Northwestern University, where he is responsible for conducting the “Wildcat” Marching Band and Concert Band, and teaching courses in conducting and music education. He has been the Assistant Conductor of the Northshore Concert Band since 2006. Mr. Farris holds degrees in Music Education from James Madison University and the University of Illinois.

Prior to moving to Northwestern, Mr. Farris served as Assistant Director of Bands at Illinois State University and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He was also the Director of the Walt Disney World Collegiate All-Star Band in Orlando, FL, and taught in the public schools of Minnesota and Wisconsin. Bands under his direction have performed at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Bands of America Regional and National Championships, the Dublin, Ireland St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and numerous bowl games.

Mr. Farris has been an active clinician, adjudicator and guest conductor throughout the United States and Canada. He is a member of the National Band Association, College Band Directors National Association, an honorary member of Tau Beta Sigma/Kappa Kappa Psi, and serves as a faculty adviser of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Iota Chapter.