Ben Gerrard

About Ben

Benjamin Gerrard is a conductor, music educator, and flutist currently pursuing doctoral studies in conducting at the University of Missouri–Kansas City Conservatory, where he also serves as a teaching assistant in the band area and is completing a Master of Music in Musicology. He additionally serves as a Teaching Artist for Harmony Project KC and as an Administrative Assistant, cover conductor, and chamber coach for the Youth Symphony of Kansas City.

Previously, he served as Director of Bands at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts in Jacksonville, Florida, where he conducted the Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, Chamber Winds, and Symphony Orchestra. Ensembles under his leadership earned national recognition and performed at the Music for All National Concert Band Festival and the Western International Band Clinic. He also appeared as guest conductor with DA Jazz Ensemble I at The Midwest Clinic and conducted the DA Symphony Orchestra at the FMEA President’s Concert.

Prior to his work at Douglas Anderson, Gerrard served as Director of Bands at Merritt Island High School in Brevard County, Florida, where he cultivated a culture of musical excellence, leadership, and community engagement.

He earned a Master of Music in Conducting from Baylor University, studying with Dr. J. Eric Wilson, and a Bachelor of Music Education from Florida State University.