Dr. Brian Panetta - Conductor
Brian J. Panetta teaches music as the Director of Bands at Berkeley Preparatory School, an independent day school in Tampa, Florida, where he oversees the Conservatory of Music. In his time at Berkeley Preparatory School, Brian established and developed a comprehensive music program and founded the Marching Buccaneers, a jazz band program comprised of two complete ensembles, and is responsible for creating the Berkeley Conservatory of Music, which provides private lessons for students on campus. Dr. Panetta started his teaching career in 2009 as the Director and Coordinator of Music at Sandusky Central Catholic School in Ohio, where he taught middle and high school bands and choirs. Brian has developed a passion and skill for working with small and developing music programs throughout his career. Brian has been responsible for evolving dormant programs into stimulating, comprehensive, and inclusive music departments in both his positions at Sandusky Central Catholic School and Berkeley Preparatory School.
Dr. Panetta received his Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the University of Dayton. He studied music education with Dr. Linda Hartley, saxophone with Dr. Willie Morris III, and conducting with Dr. Patrick Reynolds. His Master of Music in Instrumental Music Education is from Bowling Green State University, where he also served as a graduate assistant for the University Bands, studying conducting with Dr. Carol Hayward, Dr. Ken Thompson, and Dr. Bruce Moss. At Bowling Green State University, Brian studied music education with Dr. Vincent Kantorski, Dr. Elizabeth Menard, and Dr. Lisa Gruenhagen. Brian recently completed his Ph.D. in Music Education with a cognate emphasis in conducting at the University of South Florida. His research interests include beginning band pedagogy, music performance assessment, conducting curriculum, cognitive benefits of instrumental music education, and inclusive practices in the music classroom. Brian’s work has been presented at national and international conferences and published in peer-reviewed music education journals.
