Mark Knauss is an Alabama-based Music Educator, with a proven record of building relationships, innovative programming, promoting positive interaction & collaboration, and coaching programs to long-term success.

Work

Thompson High School (7A)

Alabaster, AL - Associate Director of Bands, Director of Athletic Bands

  • Founded WarrCorps, the collegiate style basketball band.

    • Music Arranger - Stand & Pep Band Tunes

  • Perfect scores in AL state assessment -

    • Superior with Distinction

  • Co-advisor: Tri-M Honor Society

  • Expanded Co-teaching with percussion director & other staff.

  • Collaboration & PD Learning with/from composers and world-class educators:

    • Dr. J. Noble, NYU

    • Dr. W. Petersen, USA

    • Dr. K. Bodiford, JSU

    • Dr. J. Moore, ETSU

    • Dr. T. Sexton, Tarpon Springs HS

    • Composers: K. Copley, S. Hazo, O. Thomas

  • Named as “one of the most influential and trusted” teachers by students.

    • The Wordsmith, THS Awards

Southwind Drum & Bugle Corps

Music and Ensemble Coordinator

Education

Doctorate of Arts in Music (Music Education)

Concentration: Wind Conducting - William Carey University (Current)

Dissertation: DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION IN SECONDARY WIND BAND CURRICULA:

Examining wind band curriculum practices; a Multi-dimensional Curriculum Proposal

Master of Arts, Instrumental Music Education

Jacksonville State University (2016-18)

Thesis: Evolution of the American Wind Band: an analysis of influences leading to the formation of the Eastman Wind Ensemble in 1952.

Mary G Montgomery High School (7A)

Director of Bands

  • Dunkin’ 100th Thanksgiving Day Parade - Philadelphia, PA

  • $15,000 City Grant for new percussion equipment

    • Worked with Principal, Administration, Mayor, and City Leadership to provide funds to replace 20+ year equipment

  • Worked with Middle School to establish recruiting plan

    • 100% increase in student participation

  • Festival Planning & Implementation (net of $20,000 in profit)

Bachelor of Arts, Instrumental Music Education

Jacksonville State University (2010-16)

  • Marching Southerners Leadership Staff

  • Downbeat Award for Jazz Album

  • Lead Trumpet for Jazz Ensemble One

    • 2 Albums Recorded

  • Principal Trumpet for JSU Chamber Winds

Highlights:

  • 5 Championships over the past two seasons.

  • 100th Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia, PA

  • 2 to 5/6; average growth of bands grade level

  • Innovative programming, utilizing diversity and inclusion in curriculum development.

“My philosophy is that we do not teach music, rather we teach people through music.”

William D Revelli