Dickinson State University (DSU) has a vested interest in developing future musicians and instructors. This year DSU welcomes Adam Mitchell, M.M., to our music education program.
Born and raised in California, Mitchell earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music with a music education option from California State University-Chico. He spent the majority of his career teaching a wide range of grade levels across California and Idaho. While working as a full-time educator, Mitchell earned his Master of Music through Central Washington University. Mitchell gained experience teaching courses such as choir, classroom music, and music theory, but his passion is band. He has taught all levels of band from beginning band- fifth and sixth grade- to high school band. A trained tubist, Mitchell brings expertise with all band instruments.
Mitchell brings enthusiasm to DSU. He is ready to develop future musicians and educators. Mitchell stated that he hopes to “help students be the best musicians they can be.” After years teaching grade school, he is excited to use his experience in the higher education environment. Mitchell is Kodaly certified- a method for teaching music with an emphasis on kinesthetic, visual, and auditory techniques. He plans to teach his students this method but wishes them to choose a teaching style that they prefer.
Mitchell has set ambitious goals for the future of DSU’s music program. He hopes to improve recruitment and rebuild the music education program. While the university has a pep band for events, Mitchell hopes to restart the university marching band. Another goal is to expand concerts outside of the DSU. He is actively planning a concert series for the school year. The hope is to involve the community by collaborating with Dickinson High School and Dickinson Middle School to include members of their bands in the concerts. Another goal is to combine a concert with the choral department. Exciting things are in store for DSU’s music program.