Amy M. Knopps

Amy M. Knopps is the Associate Teaching Professor, Associate Director of Bands, and Director of Athletic Bands at the University of Missouri. She leads Marching Mizzou, Mini Mizzou, and the Symphonic Band while teaching in the School of Music. Her tenure has expanded Marching Mizzou to 350 members, earning accolades like 'Best Overall Band' at the 2024 Dublin St. Patrick’s Festival and an invitation to London Band Week 2026.

Dr. Knopps holds a DMA from the University of Georgia, MM from the University of Kansas, and a BS.Ed. from the University of Missouri. Her research focuses on American-sponsored overseas secondary band programs and promoting diverse wind band repertoire. She has been a guest conductor with the Kansas City Wind Symphony and a clinician at the Smith-Walbridge Clinics.

• Education:
• Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA), University of Georgia, 2001
• Master of Music (MM), University of Kansas
• Bachelor of Science in Education (BS.Ed.), University of Missouri, 2001

Her awards include the William T. Kemper Fellowship for Teaching Excellence (2024), induction into the Marching Mizzou Hall of Fame (2023), and the Russell L. Wiley Graduate Conducting Award (University of Kansas). She is also the first woman to chair the CBDNA Athletic Bands Committee.

Dr. Knopps oversees bands, collaborates with professional organizations (CBDNA, NBA, NAfME), and supports initiatives like Jupiter Band Instruments’ endorsed artist program. Her career spans leadership roles in collegiate and secondary music education, emphasizing equity and innovation.