World-Renowned Conductor Leads Ensemble
May 28, 2015
Frank Battisti visited Central in February.
Wind ensemble conductor and music educator Frank L. Battisti was in residence at Central from Feb. 23 – March 1. On his last day, Battisti conducted Central’s Symphonic Wind Ensemble in a collaborative concert with the Central Iowa Wind Ensemble.
Battisti is the director and founder of the New England Conservatory Wind Ensemble. Battisti has also conducted bands all over the world for more than 60 years. He has also presented at clinics and lectures, and served as an adjudicator in all-state festivals throughout the U.S. He served as the president of the College Band Directors National Association from 1979 – 1981, and was presented the association’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
Mitchell Lutch, associate professor of music and director of bands, said Battisti’s visit inspired students and faculty alike. “Coming into the week, we were well aware of his legendary status,” Lutch said. “When he rehearsed with Central’s wind ensemble, there was no doubt to everyone in the group that he is an expert conductor.”
During his stay, Battisti also spent an evening at Grinnell College and Feb. 24 led a question-and-answer session for music educators and students in Des Moines.