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Warren Olfert

Director of Bands at North Dakota State University

Warren D. Olfert is a distinguished music educator and conductor, currently serving as the Director of Bands at North Dakota State University (NDSU). He holds the title of Professor Emeritus and has made significant contributions to the field of instrumental music education throughout his career.

Educational Background

  • Ph.D. in Instrumental Conducting/Music Education from Florida State University
  • M.M. in Instrumental Conducting from the University of Cincinnati
  • B.S. in Music Education from Bob Jones University

Professional Experience

Dr. Olfert joined NDSU in 1999, where he has been instrumental in developing the university's band program. His responsibilities include conducting the NDSU Wind Symphony, teaching courses in conducting and music education, and overseeing graduate studies in instrumental conducting. He has led various ensembles, including concert bands, marching bands, and chamber groups, and has conducted national tours for the Wind Symphony.12

Before his tenure at NDSU, Olfert held positions at several universities:

  • Bowling Green State University: Assistant Director of Bands
  • Pittsburg State University: Director of Bands
  • Cameron University: Director of Bands

His teaching experience also includes high school band directing in Louisiana and Georgia, where his bands received notable acclaim.24

Contributions and Achievements

Dr. Olfert has been active in commissioning new works for wind bands and has collaborated with renowned composers. Under his direction, the NDSU Wind Symphony performed at prestigious conferences and produced several recordings.23 He also initiated the Northern Ambassadors of Music, a European tour program for students from North Dakota and Montana that has grown significantly since its inception in 2001.2

In addition to his conducting duties, Dr. Olfert is involved with various professional organizations, including:

  • College Band Directors National Association
  • National Band Association
  • North Dakota Music Educators Association (past president)

He has presented workshops nationally and served as a clinician and adjudicator throughout the United States.24

As of 2024, Dr. Olfert announced his retirement after 25 years at NDSU, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in music education and performance.5

Highlights

Dr. Warren Olfert - NDSU Division of Performing Arts
Dr. Warren Olfert - NDSU Division of Performing Arts
Apr 22 · ndsu.edu
NDSU bands director to retire | North Dakota State University
NDSU bands director to retire | North Dakota State University
A Conversation with Warren Olfert, Director of Bands at North ...

Related Questions

What are some notable achievements of the NDSU Wind Symphony under Warren Olfert's direction?
How has Warren Olfert influenced the music education program at NDSU?
What are the main responsibilities of the Director of Bands at North Dakota State University?
Can you provide more details about the Northern Ambassadors of Music tour initiated by Warren Olfert?
What are some notable compositions that Warren Olfert has commissioned for the NDSU Wind Symphony?
Warren Olfert
Warren Olfert, photo 1
Warren Olfert, photo 2
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Location

Fargo, North Dakota Area