Todd Cranson

Dr. Todd Cranson is an Assistant Professor of Low Brass and Director of Athletic Bands at the University of South Dakota. He leads The SOUND of USD marching and pep bands, teaches applied low brass, and instructs on marching band techniques.

• Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA), University of Illinois
• Master of Music in Instrumental Conducting, University of Arkansas
• Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Music Education, Louisiana State University
• Postgraduate Diploma with Distinction in Performance, Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester, England

Cranson specializes in 19th Century American Music and low brass pedagogy. His research explores historical American brass bands and their cultural impact. He performs with the professional brass trio Trio di Velluto, commissioning works from composers like Corrado Maria Saglietti and Anna Segal.

His professional activities include frequent masterclasses and mock auditions collaborations with Dr. Amy Laursen, focusing on brass recruitment and retention. He has participated in events at institutions across the U.S. and internationally in Greece, Canada, and Italy.

A passionate home brewer, Cranson owns a brewery in Hot Springs National Park and frequently visits breweries during travels. He is married to Dr. Amy Laursen, a horn specialist, with whom he shares musical and brewing hobbies.