Brooke Farrar
Music Educator
Pleasant Hill,CA
Summary
Brooke Farrar, a dedicated educator experienced in creating and fostering learning environments for students to raise confidence and expand knowledge base. Dedicated to monitoring students' progress and ensuring each meets goals within pre-determined timespan.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Head Band Director
Freedom High School Instrumental Music Program
Oakley, NC
07.2023 - 06.2025
- Taught Instrumental Music Classes including Percussion Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Band, and Beginning Guitar Classes, and directed the Spring Musicals as Pit Orchestra Conductor and Instrumental Coach.
- Led the Falcon Marching Arts Programs as Head Director, overseeing drill writing, music arranging, programming, staging, and instrumentation.
- Coordinated and trained Marching Arts Staff in professional development and education.
- Developed strong relationships with local music organizations to provide additional performance experiences for students.
- Created innovative rehearsal strategies targeting specific skill development areas which improved individual player technique throughout entire ensemble.
- Introduced Marching Band's Field Show performance to the School, both competitive and community performance.
- Utilized technology effectively recording evaluating performances providing individualized feedback opportunities growth improvement.
- Received numerous awards at regional competitions due to thorough preparation, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence in performance.
- Fostered positive learning environment encouraging team-building collaboration among ensemble members resulting in high levels of student satisfaction and commitment to the program.
- Collaborated with other school departments to create interdisciplinary performances and events, fostering a sense of community within the school.
- Maintained active involvement professional associations staying up-to-date industry trends developments best practices related field.
- Advised graduating seniors entering collegiate level music programs ensuring smooth transition into higher education institutions.
- Delivered engaging lectures on music theory history during rehearsals as part of ongoing musical development efforts among all band members.
- Organized annual trips for students to participate in national festivals or workshops, exposing them to new musical experiences and professional musicians.
- Led successful fundraising campaigns for instrument upgrades, travel expenses, and competition fees, strengthening the band''s resources and capabilities.
- Planned coordinated logistical aspects large-scale events including concerts parades competitions involving multiple staff members, volunteers, and students.
- Incorporated diverse repertoire selections representing various cultures periods music history broadening students'' understanding appreciation global sounds.
- Increased overall band program enrollment by actively recruiting and retaining students through engaging activities and events.
- Enhanced student musicianship by implementing comprehensive rehearsal techniques and performance opportunities.
- Monitored student progress based on detailed weekly lesson plans and assessments.
- Assessed musicians and assigned instruments and parts for songs and concerts.
- Designed impactful concert programs that showcased student talent while also educating audiences on various styles of music.
Educator
Blue Devils Performing Arts
Concord, CA
12.2018 - Current
- Blue Devils "C" Corps - Brass and Visual Technician 2023
- Blue Devils "C" Corps - Brass Co-Caption Head 2024
- Blue Devils "B" Corps - Brass Technician 2023-Present
- Monitored student progress and adjusted instruction to meet individual needs.
- Assessed student performance and provided feedback to facilitate student success.
- Created and implemented assessments to measure student progress.
- Built relationships and communicated with parents to provide best learning environment for children.
- Provided constructive feedback on assignments, empowering students to take ownership of their learning and academic growth.
- Developed and implemented differentiated instruction strategies for diverse learners, ensuring individualized attention and success.
- Met regularly with team of teachers to discuss best practices and develop innovative teaching strategies.
Utility Brass Consultant
Folsom Symphony Orchestra
Folsom, California
05.2023 - 06.2023
- Hired to perform 2023 Season's production of Igor Stravinsky's "Rite of Spring" on Bass Trombone and Bass Trumpet.
- Collaborated with cross-section musicians to successfully deliver successful and impactful performances for audiences.
Euphonium Soloist, Bass Trumpet, and Bass Trombone Alternate
San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra
San Francisco, California
05.2021 - 05.2023
- Performed The Planets by Gustav Holst for the 2022 Spring Concert Season.
- Hired to perform 2023 Season's production of Igor Stravinsky's "Rite of Spring" on Bass Trombone and Bass Trumpet.
- Called in as necessary to fill in for the Bass Trombone Spot in the Orchestra.
- Enhanced audience engagement by delivering captivating and emotive performances.
- Collaborated with composers on commissioned works, bringing new and exciting pieces to the organization''s repertoire.
- Contributed to increased ticket sales by consistently delivering high-quality performances and engaging showmanship.
- Continually honed skills through dedicated practice, maintaining a high standard of excellence in performance quality.
- Utilized strong sight-reading abilities to quickly learn new material, streamlining rehearsal processes for efficient preparation timeframes.
- Promoted concert series through social media channels, driving higher attendance rates at events.
- Collaborated with fellow musicians for seamless ensemble presentations, resulting in standing ovations.
- Read music and memorized parts for shows.
Marching Band Staff Member
Foothill High School
Pleasanton, CA
08.2022 - 05.2023
- Taught Visual and Music for the Foothill High School Marching Band.
- Mentored students of different ages and backgrounds in music theory, composition and performance.
- Taught Visual Marching Technique in straight-leg style and wrote choreography for performing groups.
- Lead instrumental music sectionals.
- Taught Woodwind and Brass Pedagogy at the High School Level.
- Mentored students in various ensembles, boosting their confidence and performance skills.
- Mentored struggling students with individualized approach to enhance learning.
- Improved student musicianship by incorporating a variety of teaching methods and techniques.
Member
Pacific Brass Society, University of the Pacific, Conservatory of Music
09.2021 - 05.2023
- Performed on Euphonium and Bass Trombone in high-profile, student-led large brass choir ensemble
- Elected Vice-President in April 2022
- Vice-President's responsibilities are to facilitate and schedule rehearsals for the group, collaborate with treasurer on how to spend approved budget on resources and music, and support decision making made by the Society's President.
- Elected Primary Artistic Director & Conductor in April 2022
- Responsible for deciding the Society's musical repertoire for the Spring and Fall Semesters, scheduling performances for the group, leading rehearsals, and collaborating with sub-sections for individual and small group rehearsals.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
Member
Sigma Alpha Iota - Eta Omega Chapter
05.2021 - 05.2023
- Participated in Philanthropic Musical Charity within the Greater Stockton Community
- Elected Fraternity Education Chair in the Spring of 2021
- Fraternity Education Chair is responsible for educating chapter members on conduct, etiquette and rules of the organization.
- Elected Music Director of the Eta Omega Chapter in Spring 2021
- Music Director is responsible for planning and rehearsal of chapter-affiliated music, and performance events on and off of campus.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Resolved problems, improved operations and provided exceptional service.
Member
NAfME Collegiate Chapter, University of the Pacific
08.2019 - 05.2023
- Acts as a member of the chapter, attending professional development and furthering education presentations.
- Elected as Treasurer for the 2020-2021 Academic Year
- Was in charge of operating funds for the chapter.
- Invited recurrently to present on Advanced Brass Pedagogy and Marching Arts to NAfME members at University of the Pacific.
- Attends CASMEC and CMEA Bay Section conferences as a member of the collegiate chapter.
Intern
Sayla Music Academy
06.2022 - 12.2022
- Completed Internship, 20 hours of lesson observations and teaching with certified teachers.
- Taught beginning and intermediate piano, flute, and beginning to advanced trumpet, and low brass.
- Supported staff members in their daily tasks, reducing workload burden and allowing for increased focus on higher-priority assignments.
- Gained valuable experience working within a specific industry, applying learned concepts directly into relevant work situations.
- Contributed to a positive team environment by collaborating with fellow interns on group projects and presentations.
- Participated in workshops and presentations related to projects to gain knowledge.
Visual and Music Coach
Liberty High School
07.2019 - 11.2022
- Worked as a Music and Marching and Visual Coach for the Liberty High School Band Program.
- Worked as a low brass pedagogy specialist
- Coached woodwinds as a secondary specialist
Visual and Music Coach
Lincoln High School
07.2022 - 10.2022
- Worked as an Instrumental Specialist, Visual Technician, and Choreographer for the Lincoln High School Marching Band.
- Enhanced student musicianship by incorporating individualized practice plans and performance assessments.
- Increased student retention in private music lessons through personalized instruction and goal setting.
- Elevated ensemble performances through effective rehearsal strategies and clear conducting techniques.
- Developed students'' music theory knowledge with engaging lesson plans and hands-on activities.
- Collaborated with colleagues to create interdisciplinary arts events showcasing student talent across various disciplines.
Visual Technician
Los Gatos High School
05.2021 - 05.2022
- Taught Visual technique for the Los Gatos High Wildcat Marching Band
- Taught Choreography and worked with the Design team and Visual Coordinator for the Show Production Process.
- Coached the woodwind and brass sections of the Marching Band in Music Pedagogy and rehearsals.
Performer
Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps
12.2018 - 08.2021
- Member for 2019 season, contracted for 2020, Member for the 2021 Season.
Member
209 Brass Quintet
01.2020 - 03.2020
- Recruited to join on-campus Brass Chamber Quintet to perform newly composed piece Song for Ursa by Katahj Copley to highlight African-American Composers
- Performed Euphonium Solo in-person and in video & audio recordings published for the composer and University of the Pacific's Conservatory of Music to be advertised.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
- Used strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for challenging situations.
Performer
Blue Devils Performing Arts
12.2015 - 05.2019
- Blue Devils Entertainment: Euphonium, Tenor and Bass Trombone, and Sousaphone DEC 2019 - Present
- Blue Devils "B" Corps: Euphonium 2017- 2018 Seasons
- Blue Devils "C" Corps: Baritone 2016 Season
- Maintained physical fitness and anatomical health to consistently deliver high-quality performances under demanding conditions.
- Utilized dance choreography expertise within performances leading to increased fluidity and synchronization among ensemble members.
- Enhanced audience engagement by incorporating dynamic performance techniques and innovative stage presence.
- Provided constructive feedback to peers during rehearsals, promoting growth as performers while strengthening group dynamics.
- Promoted productions through interviews, social media engagement, and public appearances, boosting ticket sales and visibility.
- Mastered diverse roles across various genres, showcasing versatility and adaptability as a performer.
- Mentored aspiring performers through workshops and one-on-one coaching sessions, sharing valuable insights from years of professional experience.
Principal Euphoniums
Diablo Wind Symphony
09.2016 - 04.2019
- Performed contemporary and classic Wind Ensemble works as the Principal euphonium player for 3 years.
- Worked in multiple masterclasses with professional low brass musicians in the Bay Area.
- Participated in team projects, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and effectively.
- Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
Education
M.M. - Wind Conducting
University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA 06.2025 - Current
Skills
Problem-solving
Performance tracking
Staff management
Strategic planning
Work Planning and Prioritization
Continuous improvement
Team leadership & development
Best practices implementation
Decision-making
Client relationships
Team collaboration
Time management
Problem-solving
Awards
- 2019, Heritage High School Band Director's Award
- 2019, John Philip Sousa Award
- 2019-Present, Conservatory Merit Scholarship
- 2019-Present, Pacific Scholarship II
- 2020, Dean's List Award
- 2022-2023, Carlos & Madeline Wood Scholarship Fund
Accomplishments
- Oversaw 20+ special performances each year.
- Increased student participation in the arts by engaging everyone in the process.
- Put on special community performance for students and parents.
- Supervised team of 13 staff members.
Affiliations
- National Association for Music Education
- Contra Costa County Honor Bands Adjudication Board
- Sigma Alpha Iota Alumni Association
- Blue Devils Alumni Association
- Blue Knights Alumni Association
Certification
California Teacher's Commission, Cleared Credential K-12 Single Subject Music
Timeline
M.M. - Wind Conducting
University of California, Los Angeles
06.2025 - Current
California Teacher's Commission, Cleared Credential K-12 Single Subject Music
05-2025
Head Band Director
Freedom High School Instrumental Music Program
07.2023 - 06.2025
Utility Brass Consultant
Folsom Symphony Orchestra
05.2023 - 06.2023
Marching Band Staff Member
Foothill High School
08.2022 - 05.2023
Visual and Music Coach
Lincoln High School
07.2022 - 10.2022
Intern
Sayla Music Academy
06.2022 - 12.2022
Member
Pacific Brass Society, University of the Pacific, Conservatory of Music
09.2021 - 05.2023
Euphonium Soloist, Bass Trumpet, and Bass Trombone Alternate
San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra
05.2021 - 05.2023
Member
Sigma Alpha Iota - Eta Omega Chapter
05.2021 - 05.2023
Visual Technician
Los Gatos High School
05.2021 - 05.2022
Member
209 Brass Quintet
01.2020 - 03.2020
Member
NAfME Collegiate Chapter, University of the Pacific
08.2019 - 05.2023
Visual and Music Coach
Liberty High School
07.2019 - 11.2022
Educator
Blue Devils Performing Arts
12.2018 - Current
Performer
Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps
12.2018 - 08.2021
Principal Euphoniums
Diablo Wind Symphony
09.2016 - 04.2019
Performer
Blue Devils Performing Arts
12.2015 - 05.2019
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