Dr. Dennis Silkebakken

Dr. Dennis Silkebakken a music professional for over forty years, has conducted bands and orchestras at both high school and college levels in Florida and Oklahoma. Previously, he was Professor of Music, Director of Bands, and Department Chair at East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma where he directed the Tiger Marching Band, the Wind Ensemble and taught courses in Conducting, Band Literature and Music Education. Under his direction the East Central University Band performed at numerous NFL games and produced a number of compact disc recordings.

Dr. Silkebakken is highly active as a guest conductor, adjudicator and clinician, having adjudicated concert, jazz and marching festivals and contests throughout the country.

Prior to his appointment at ECU he was Director of Bands at Plantation High School in Fort Lauderdale where he directed two wind ensembles, two jazz ensembles and the Marching band. In addition to his work in the public schools, he played professionally with the Fort Lauderdale Symphony, The Miami Philharmonic Orchestra, the Miami Beach Symphony, Miami Ballet Company, and the Opera Guild of Greater Miami. Silkebakken holds a Ph.D. in Music Education from the University of Oklahoma and Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Music from Florida State University.