Dr. Bradley Kent Joins Music Department
By Kate Y. Hector, Media Coordinator | Tuesday, October 02, 2012 9:10 AM
Dr. Bradley Kent
The music department has an energetic new member in Dr. Bradley Kent. Kent started as the new associate music director after Labor Day and is excited to put his years of experience to use here at the League.
“As a young teacher, I experienced what UIL did for me and my students,” Kent said. “I have always had a tremendous amount of respect for what UIL does for our music programs in this state.”
Kent started his career in music as a teacher at Lewisville High School, north of Dallas, but his musical interest started long before that.
“I have been a musician, played an instrument and been involved in music in some fashion since sixth grade,” he said.
Kent grew up in Louisiana, and played trombone throughout middle and high school. He attended Louisiana State University and received his bachelors of music education. Since then, he has earned a Masters of Music and a Doctor of Musical Arts from The University of Texas.
Before coming to work at the League he was the director of fine arts in Richardson ISD in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Kent and his wife Laurie have two daughters and are looking forward to relocating to the Austin area very soon.
Kent is a frequent guest conductor and clinician for high school music groups around the state, and he wants the hands-on experience he will get from working at the League.
“It is very important to me to stay as active as I can — still teaching when I have opportunities to do that,” he said. “I think it helps me stay connected with the teachers and students I am serving.”
Kent has jumped right into his duties and is preparing for the state marching band contest Nov. 5-6. He also is picking the brain of his predecessor and office neighbor, Richard Floyd. Floyd has been the music director since 1984. The two will be working side-by-side this year. Kent said this set up is helping the transition for him.
“Really, it is kind of a dream come true for me to have to be in this position,” he said. “Being on the other side of things and facilitating the UIL music experiences for directors and kids is truly an honor.”