Scott Boerma

Scott Boerma is the Director of Bands and Professor of Music at the Irving S. Gilmore School of Music, Western Michigan University. He conducts the University Wind Symphony and Western Winds. Previously, he held roles as Associate Director of Bands and Donald R. Shepherd Associate Professor of Conducting at the University of Michigan, and Director of Bands at Eastern Michigan University. Boerma earned a D.M.A. in Conducting from Michigan State University, an M.M. in Music Education from the University of Michigan, and a B.M. in Music Education from Western Michigan University.

• Education:
  • D.M.A., Conducting, Michigan State University
  • M.M., Music Education, University of Michigan
  • B.M., Music Education, Western Michigan University

His research interests focus on wind conducting, music education, and composition. He is renowned for his compositions and arrangements performed by ensembles like “The President’s Own” U.S. Marine Band, Dallas Wind Symphony, and Madison Scouts Drum & Bugle Corps. Boerma’s work spans Broadway (“Blast”), university marching bands, and international collaborations.

He actively serves as a guest conductor for honor bands and clinics, including the Interlochen World Youth Wind Symphony and Michigan All-State Bands. His compositions have been featured at Carnegie Hall and the Midwest Clinic.

• Awards/Honors:
  • Member, American Bandmasters Association
  • Drum Corps International Hall of Fame
  • Commissioned composer for high schools, universities, and international ensembles

Boerma leads the University Bands at WMU and oversees arrangements for multiple Big Ten institutions. His professional roles include Michigan state chair for the College Band Directors National Association and past president of the Mid-American Conference Band Directors Association.