ENMU Director of Bands Elected to American Bandmasters Association
PORTALES, NM – March 16, 2023 – Dustin Siefert, Director of Bands at Eastern New Mexico University, was inducted into the American Bandmasters Association (ABA) during its convention March 1-5 in Lawrence, Kansas.
Election to the ABA is the culmination of a year-long process involving nomination and sponsorship by current members, the submission of performance recordings, and a review of his musical works. Other historical names associated with this association are John Phillip Sousa and famed film composer John Williams. The organization honors outstanding achievements in music direction and strives to enhance wind music by example and leadership.
“I am thrilled to be elected to membership in the ABA, a first for an ENMU Director of Bands,” Seifert said. “My election illustrates the achievement and success of our fantastic students and my exceptional colleagues in the Department of Music.”
In addition to his induction, Seifert also conducted a special performance of the University of Iowa Symphony Band, performing English Dances Set II by Sir Malcolm Arnold.
Seifert has been with ENMU’s Department of Music since 2000, leading the band program to numerous accolades and guiding ENMU graduates to successful music careers.
“While election to the ABA is the highest professional honor in my field, to me, it’s the starting point for even more extraordinary learning opportunities,” Seifert said. “Being chosen to sit amongst approximately 300 esteemed conductors in our profession opens doors to growth, service, and learning opportunities for all in my small sphere of influence.”
