Elizabeth Peterson, D.M.A.

About Elizabeth

Dr. Elizabeth Peterson, Emeritus Professor, retired from her position as Associate Director of Bands at the University of Illinois School of Music in May of 2022. Peterson conducted the Illinois Wind Orchestra, served as the placement coordinator for student teachers and taught several courses in instrumental conducting. Prior to her appointment at the University of Illinois, Peterson was a tenured professor of music education at the Ithaca College School of Music. During the seventeen years she spent at Ithaca College, Peterson conducted numerous ensembles including the Symphonic Band, Brass Choir and All-Campus Band. She taught courses in conducting, undergraduate and graduate courses in music education, and supervised student teachers. Peterson was the co-conductor of the Ithaca Concert Band, an adult community band for fifteen years.

Dr. Peterson continues to be active as a guest conductor, adjudicator, and school music consultant. Peterson has served as interim conductor of the Penn State University Wind Ensemble and the Colorado State University Symphonic Band. She presents clinics at the local, state and national levels in the field of music education and has published two books: “The Music Teachers First Year: Tales of Challenge Joy and Triumph,” and “The Music Teacher’s Later Years: Reflection with Wisdom.”

Peterson is a graduate of the University of Michigan where she received a Bachelor of Music Education and Bachelor of Arts in English and studied trumpet with Armando Ghitalla. She received a Master of Music in Music Education and Trumpet Performance from Northwestern University, where she studied trumpet with Vincent Cichowicz. She earned a Doctor of Musical Arts in Music Education from Shenandoah Conservatory. Prior to her appointment at Ithaca College, Peterson was an arts administrator and director of bands in the public schools of Ohio and Illinois. She played trumpet in the North Shore Community Band under the direction of John P. Paynter. Dr. Peterson is a member of the American Bandmasters Association, College Band Directors National Association and serves on the Board of Directors for the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic. Beth currently lives in Fort Collins, Colorado with her husband, Steve and their Golden Retriever, Stanley.