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Dr. Nicholas Valenziano is the Former Executive Director and Director of Education for Marching Bands of America and was instrumental in developing Bands of America’s presence in its early years.
In 1978, Dr. Nicholas Valenziano succeeded Gary Beckner, becoming (Marching) Bands of America’s second Executive Director. Nick came to Marching Bands of America in 1975 as its first Educational Director and served in that role until his elevation to Executive Director, a position he held until 1981. A childhood friend and band mate of BOA founder Larry McCormick, Nick “bought into” Larry’s dream that is Bands of America. His presence and engagement provided leadership, legitimacy and character to the vision, without which foundation might call into question Bands of America’s and Music for All’s survival and evolution through the years.
Dr. Nick Valenziano received his Bachelor of Music degree from DePaul University, a Master of Music degree from Northwestern University and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Missouri. In addition to his work at Bands of America, he spent more than 35 years as a music educator at the elementary, high school, and college levels and twelve years in the music industry, before he retired in 2001. A consummate musician, Nick remains active as a professional player and conductor in his “retirement” home of Grand Rapids, Michigan.