Huron Band Website

Huron Director of Bands Robert Ash, is an alumnus of Central Michigan University where he earned degrees in Music Education and Music Theory and Composition. While at CMU, he studied saxophone with Prof. John Nichol, composition with Dr. David Gillingham, and conducting with Prof. John Williamson. His work at CMU earned him the prestigious Presser Scholarship, which is the highest award given to an undergraduate music student at CMU School of Music. Mr. Ash furthered his studies at The Florida State University earning a Masters in Music Composition while studying with renowned composers Dr. Ladislav Kubik and Pulitzer Prize winner Dr. Ellen Zwillich. As a saxophonist, Mr. Ash has presented performances at the North American Saxophone Alliance’s National Convention, and was twice a semi-finalist at the National Fischoff Chamber Music Competition. His compositions for Wind Band have earned him national recognition from the Music Teacher’s National Association, the National Band Association Young Composer’s Mentoring Project, and publication from C.Alan Publication.

Mr. Ash is an active conductor of wind literature, having worked with many ensembles around the State of Michigan. His conducting studies have included instruction from Dr. Kevin Sedetole, Director of Bands at Michigan State University, Dr. Rodney Dorsey, Director of Bands at the University of Oregon, Dr. Scott Boerma, Director of Bands at Western Michigan University, Prof. Michael Haithcock, Director of Bands at the University of Michigan, Prof. Craig Kirchhoff, Director of Bands at the University of Minnesota, and Dr. John Pasquale, Director of the Michigan Marching Band. Mr. Ash’s past appointments have been as the Director of Bands at Forest Hills Central High School in Grand Rapids, MI., the Director of Bands and Choirs at the world renown and International Baccalaureate focused International Academy in Bloomfield Hills, MI., The Director of Bands and Choirs at Pinckney Community High School, an instructor at the 2 time Grammy Signature award winning Ann Arbor Pioneer Band Program, as well as an instructor at the East Bronx Academy for the Future in the Bronx, New York. Mr. Ash is also an active member of the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association having served as the District IV and District X representative for the Festival Improvement Committee. 

Mr. Ash enjoys spending time and traveling with his wife Camille and very active 3-year-old son Xander. Mr. and Mrs. Ash are both avid foodies, tennis players, skiers, readers and movie goers.