John P. LaCognata

John LaCognata was appointed director of bands at UNCW in 2010, where he conducts the Wind Symphony, Chamber Winds and Pep Band; teaches applied trumpet, conducting and instrumental techniques; directs the UNCW Honor Band Festival and Summer Band; and administers the band program. He also conducts the Wilmington Symphonic Winds, a regional professional-level wind ensemble, and the Wilmington New Horizons Concert Band in association with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. LaCognata received his Bachelor of Science in music education from the University of Illinois, Master of Music in trumpet performance from Auburn University ,and Ph.D. in music education with an emphasis in wind conducting from the University of Florida where he was awarded a Doctoral Teaching Fellowship. Prior to joining the faculty at UNCW, LaCognata served on the faculties of Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Louisiana State University, and Iowa State University. He held positions at Hillcrest High School (Ill.), Tavares High School (Fla.), Cypress Creek High School (Fla.), and Winter Park High School (Fla.). Concert bands under LaCognata’s direction have performed at the North Carolina Music Educators Association conference, Bands of America National Concert Band Festival, the Florida Music Educators Association conference, and the 60th Anniversary of the Midwest Clinic in Chicago. Marching bands under his leadership have been awarded Grand Champion at the Autozone Liberty Bowland the Sylvania Alamo Bowl, and performed at the Blue Cross Blue Shield Fiesta Bowl National Band Championship and Fiesta Bowl Parade. LaCognata’s professional affiliations include the College Band Directors National Association, the National Association for Music Education, the International Trumpet Guild, the North Carolina Music Educators Association, and the North Carolina Bandmasters Association.