DONALD HALE, JR., is a recent graduate of Texas Christian University, obtaining a Master of Music in Wind Band Conducting. A native of Laredo, Texas, he received a Bachelor of Music in Music Composition from the University of Texas at Austin, studying with Donald Grantham, Yevgeniy Sharlat, and Russell Podgorsek as well as conducting with Ryan Kelly, Scott Hanna, and Jerry Junkin. He was also actively involved with its ensembles as a member of the University of Texas Longhorn Band, Wind Ensemble, Wind Symphony, and the Symphony Band. Recent projects include Symphony No. 1 for large wind ensemble, transcriptions of John Tavener’s Song for Athene for wind symphony, as well as an upcoming wind transcription of Henry Purcell’s Music for the Funeral of Queen Mary. His music is self-published under Donald Hale Music. His professional affiliations include Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, Texas Orchestra Directors Association, College Band Directors National Association, National Band Association, and Mu Phi Epsilon. 

Mr. Hale was recently named the Finalist Honorable Mention in the 2022 American Prize in Conducting - Band/Wind Ensemble division!

A multidisciplinary composer, conductor, performer and educator, Seth Bedford creates musical experiences for orchestras, bands, chamber musicians and children.  His work often explores themes of mutual understanding, internationality, and community. 

He holds a degree in music composition from the University of Texas where he studied with Kevin Puts.  He has studied and taught guitar, harp, violin, viola, cello, bass, piano and voice.  His music is published by Carl Fischer Music and Vertical Music. 

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Seth is also active as a visual artist and fiction writer, and he's a long-time member of ASCAP.