G. SCOTT
LITZENBERG
Area of Study: Music Education
Current City: Kennett Square, PA
Graduation Date: 1984
Current Occupation: Director, The Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps, Allentown, PA
Why did you choose WCU and/or the School of Music?
I chose the WCU school of music since I had come to the Marching Band Workshop in
the Summer of 1979. I loved the campus and the whole atmosphere and knew the music
program was top-notch!
How has the quality of education you received from WCU and/or School of Music prepared
you for life after graduation?
The realistic approach to music and teaching was a huge part of what I learned at
WCU. Joe Goebel, the percussion teacher, was so practical in his approach and the
quality of music Ed classes really helped to prepare me for my future as a band director.
What is a typical day like for you?
Well, I retired from being a HS band director this past June, after 34 years, to take
over running The Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps. My day now consists of many emails and
phone calls to help manage a team to run the corps and our operations. Evening staff
and design team calls, as well as volunteer planning and work, is all a part of my
new position. Many weekends as well as 12 weeks in the summer, are now a part of the
new normal for me.
What advice would you give to someone who would like to enter your field?
Know the commitment and know the effort it takes to be in this business. It is an
amazing career and you will effect many people in the course of your time. If it is
just about your time and money, you are in the wrong business. The rewards are way
more than that and always keep on giving.
What advice would you give to our graduating seniors?
Be passionate and dedicate yourself to always learning and getting better. Your students
will know if you are all in or not, and will respond likewise! Show them you get it,
and they will follow you through a wall.
What makes the WCU School of Music standout to you?
I love the passion of the faculty and staff. The quality and the effort to continue
to improve and expand the programs is very impressive. I am proud to have had a chance
to watch the SOM programs grow and improve for so many years. I am also proud to have
been a part of the programs at WCU!
When you were a student at WCU, did you do an internship and/or study abroad? If so,
describe those experiences.
I did not, but I did march in drum corps in the summer, which I think should be offered
as an internship or for credit for anyone who is planning on going into being a band
director. It is a huge asset to the SOM to have programs offered that help develop
and train band directors for their future.
What is your favorite memory of being a student at WCU and/or School of Music?
I loved the Percussion Ensemble and Concert Choir Tours. Those chances to perform
and share what we did were just amazing!!!
What's the most interesting thing about you that we wouldn't learn from your resume
alone?
One of my life goals is to get my private pilots license. I still want to pursue that
dream!