USF Band Directors' Symposium
The University of South Florida’s School of Music is proud to host the 5th annual Band Directors’ Symposium on June 2-3, 2026. This year's lead clinician will be Darcy Williams, who is the head band director at Stiles Middle School in Leander, Texas. Her musical education began in her father’s band hall in Harper, Texas where she spent her afternoons learning to play any instrument she could find in the storage closet while waiting to go home. Bands under her direction have performed at The Midwest Clinic twice (2015, 2021), the Western International Band Clinic in Seattle, and are consistently state finalists in the TMEA Honor Band contest.
She is the author of two books on education: Teaching Rhythm Logically and Pacing for Success: Beginner Band. She is also well-known for her podcast, After Sectionals, which many of you likely enjoy.
The symposium is open to active, future and retired middle and high school band directors. Participants will play in a lab band (no performance) led by a nationally-recognized director who will demonstrate the rehearsal techniques they use on a daily basis in their programs. In addition, there will be several sessions led by USF faculty, outstanding teachers, music supervisors, and other experts in the field. Specific clinics will vary year to year, but will typically include conducting, instrument techniques, arranging/composing, instrument repair, jazz, work/life balance, repertoire, and much more.
participant information
Fee = $150
clinician
Darcy Williams is the head band director at Stiles Middle School. Born to parents who met in their beginner trombone class, Darcy is 100% a product of the Texas music system. Her own musical education began in her father’s band hall in Harper, Texas where she spent her afternoons learning to play any instrument she could find in the storage closet while waiting to go home. Darcy received her Bachelor of Music in 2004 from West Texas A&M University.
Mrs. Williams bands have performed at The Midwest Clinic in Chicago twice (2015, 2021), the Western International Band Clinic in Seattle, and are consistently state finalists in the TMEA Honor Band contest.
In addition to teaching Mrs. Williams clinics both students and music educators across the United States. She is the author of two books on education: Teaching Rhythm Logically and Pacing for Success: Beginner Band.
Darcy is married to John Vogt, and together they have a future All-State Band member - their daughter Caroline - and 2 spoiled dachshunds, Lucy and Jack.
Hotels Close to USF
Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa USF Near Busch Gardens
3705 Spectrum Blvd, Tampa, FL 33612-9422
(813) 977-7066
*This is the most convenient option to the School of Music
La Quinta Inn & Suites USF Near Busch Gardens (0.8 miles)
3701 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33612-6489
(813) 910-7500
Home2 Suites by Hilton – Tampa USF (0.8 miles)
11606 Malcolm McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33620
(813) 750-8844
Holiday Inn Express Tampa North – Telecom Park (2.4 miles)
13294 Telecom Dr, Temple Terrace, FL 33637
(813) 972-9800
Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa – North (3.0 miles)
8210 Hidden River Pkwy, Tampa, FL 33637-2002
(813) 977-3343
Hyatt Place - Busch Gardens (1.67 miles)
11408 N 30th St, Tampa, FL, 33612
(813) 979-1922
Dining Close to USF
Acropolis – Greek
Babushka's – Russian
Mission BBQ
Mr. Dunderbak's – German
Stonewood Grill
World of Beer
Yuengling Draft Haus
Every fast food you can think of
Acclaimed Dining in Tampa
Armature Works
Bern’s Steakhouse
Columbia Restaurant
Ocean Prime
Rooster & the Till
Ulele
Things To Do
Busch Gardens Tampa
Dinner Cruises
Dinosaur World (My kid loved this when he was 4)
Florida Aquarium
Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park
MOSI (the Museum Of Science & Industry)
Tampa Beaches
Ybor City (Lots of History and Shops, Restaurants, Nightlife, and Entertainment) – Not recommended
for middle or high school students
More information at Visit Tampa Bay