Dr. Moore explained that music has been a part of humankind for more than 30,000 years, dating back to when early humans carved flutes from animal bones. Today, a conductor’s job is to evoke sound and keep the pulse of the band together. Music can be quick or sustained, a heavy punch or a soothing glide. Moore’s energy is always commanding. His teaching style is compelling.
While there was no live music, Dr. Moore was ‘making the music’ by producing different tones through his voice and mimicked the sound with his hand movements. He demonstrated the energy he put forth when conducting. His arm movements marked the tempo. The audience shared his excitement and sang along with the beats. The audience learned first-hand how physically demanding it is to conduct.
Dr. J. Steven Moore, DMA, is the conductor of the SWFL Concert Band and owner of the Yamaha Music School Fort Myers. He has held conducting and administrative positions at the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, University of Kentucky, Colorado State University, and the University of Central Missouri. Moore recently retired as Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies at the University of Miami and continues as a guest conductor and consultant.
Dr. J. Steven Moore’s experience includes 10 years as a music teacher in elementary, middle, and high schools and four years as music director and conductor of the Central Kentucky Youth Orchestras serving students in grades 5-12. The beat went on as he continued his career teaching music at four major universities. His experience also includes serving as a music camp director. His awards include being named Kentucky High School Teacher of the Year. Moore’s administrative experience also includes curriculum development through his role as Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies at the prestigious Frost School of Music at the University of Miami. He holds degrees in music, including a Bachelor of Music Education, Master of Music Education, and Doctor of Musical Arts in Conducting. As owner and operator of Yamaha Music School, Moore supervises teaching and is focused on the success and overall experience of students, parents, and clients.
Moore serves as conductor and Music Director for the Naples Concert Band and the SWFL Concert Band. The SWFL Concert Band’s mission statement is to bring music to the ears of our community, delivered in close collaboration with local musicians, talented students, guest artists, and partner organizations. Fifty musicians representing a wide range of ages are selected through auditions. The SWFL Concert Band is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. https://www.southwestfloridaconcertband.org
• Location & Venue: Concerts are held in the 900-seat auditorium at South Fort Myers High School, located at 14020 Plantation Rd, Fort Myers, FL 33912.
• Schedule: Monthly performances take place on Sunday afternoons at 2:00 PM from November through April.
• Music Director: Dr. J. Steven Moore.
• Repertoire: Show tunes, movie themes, dramatic overtures, big band, jazz, and marches.
• Cost: Admission is completely free and open to the public, though donations are welcome to support the band and their student music programs.
Moore also authored the book Play It from the Heart: What You Learn from Music About Success in Life. The book has received hundreds of positive reviews on Amazon. The core premise uses music education and band experience as a roadmap to personal and professional achievement. Key themes include leadership, excellence, cooperation and teamwork.
