About TCW

The Texas Conducting Workshop (TCW) at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is a specialized intensive program designed for music educators and aspiring conductors. the workshop focuses on refining baton technique, rehearsal strategies, and score study in a supportive, hands-on environment.

Why it’s unique in the region

Many conducting workshops are strictly academic or intended only for high-level conservatory students. TCW has survived and thrived for so long because it bridges the gap between professional artistry and the practical needs of a classroom teacher—focusing on things like "fixing the second violins" just as much as "artistic phrasing."

Workshop Highlights:

Target Audience: Primarily geared toward orchestra directors (middle school, high school, and collegiate), graduate students, and advanced undergraduates.
The Rehearsal Lab: A standout feature of the workshop is the "Rehearsal Lab," where participants conduct a live ensemble and receive immediate feedback from Dr. Huff and other expert faculty.
Tracks:
- Active Conducting Participant: Limited to a small number of people (usually around 20) to ensure significant podium time and one-on-one mentoring.
- Auditor/Observer: For those who wish to attend all sessions, lectures, and observations without the podium time, often at a reduced cost.

The Origins: Dr. Evans founded the workshop alongside the UTA string faculty to provide a "high-podium-time" experience that was missing for many public school directors in the DFW area.
A Decade of Growth: By the mid-2010s, it had solidified into the current format: a week-long intensive with a capped number of participants to ensure every conductor gets significant time with a live ensemble.
Evolution: Over the years, it has expanded from a local workshop into a regional draw, attracting conductors from across the Southern United States.