Caroline Hand is Associate Director of Bands and Assistant Professor at the University of Oklahoma. She believes in the ability of ensemble music making to create connections among students and audiences alike, and searches for ways to enhance these bonds. Dr. Hand has the opportunity to facilitate these connections by conducting the Symphony Band, teaching conducting courses, and visiting schools in the region.
Dr. Hand is in demand as a guest conductor across the region and nation with numerous honor band appearances, most recently as the guest conductor for Athena Music and Leadership Camp in Minnesota. She is pursuing research and study of works for wind band by female composers, and is dedicated to programming works by diverse composers with her ensembles. Dr. Hand is also an avid supporter of community engagement through music. She has been an advisor for United Sound and presented on disability inclusion in numerous settings. Alongside colleagues Amy Hourigan and Douglas Droste, her work on a Sensory Friendly Concert Series was presented at the 2021 Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic.
Dr. Hand previously held the position of associate director of bands at Ball State University and taught public school in Mountain Home, AR and Tyler, TX ISD. She earned degrees from the University of Minnesota (DMA conducting), Baylor University (MM band conducting), and Oklahoma State University (BME). Her wind conducting teachers include Craig Kirchhoff, Eric Wilson, and Joseph Missal.
