David Morrison composer

David Morrison built and maintained a nationally recognized band program at Prospect High School in Mt. Prospect, Illinois, for nearly three decades. Under his direction, both the Symphonic and Marching Bands consistently achieved top honors at state and national competitions, including as The Illinois SuperState Honor Band, Bands of America Regional Champions, and multiple-time Grand National Finalists. In addition to performances for both Presidents Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush, the bands also participated in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California. Following his tenure at Prospect, Mr. Morrison worked as an adjunct faculty member at several colleges and universities. He also served as interim conductor at Illinois Wesleyan University and director of bands at the University of Illinois, Chicago, thereby completing a cycle of teaching that encompassed every level of music student, from beginner through college graduate. Some of Mr. Morrison’s honors include the Citation of Excellence from the National Band Association, the John Paynter Lifetime Achievement Award, and the John Philip Sousa Foundation Legion of Honor Award. In 2003, Mr. Morrison was honored as the State of Illinois Teacher of the Year, and in 2005 he was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Bandmasters Hall of Fame at Northwestern University. He has been published in numerous music education periodicals and has presented at The Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference in Chicago, Illinois. Mr. Morrison remains active as a guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator both in the United States and abroad.