116. Directing, Composing, Inspiring: A Conversation with Dr. Perry Holbrook

Episode 116 – Directing, Composing, Inspiring: A
Conversation with Dr. Perry Holbrook





In this episode, we welcome Dr. Perry Holbrook,
Artistic Director of Orchestras at Walton High School in Cobb
County, Georgia. Over his 25-year tenure, Dr. Holbrook has grown
the Walton Orchestra program from 130 to over 300 students,
leading ensembles to perform at The Midwest Clinic, the ASTA
National Conference, and GMEA, as well as on multiple European
tours.





Charles and Dr. Holbrook discuss his unique journey from trumpet
major to acclaimed orchestra director, the traditions and culture
of the Walton program, and his approaches to student leadership,
rehearsal strategies, and creating meaningful musical
experiences. They also dive into his flourishing career as a
composer, exploring how pieces like Someday,
Never Summer Mountain, and Acadian Solstice came to life and
continue to inspire student ensembles across the country.





Whether you’re interested in program-building, rehearsal
philosophy, or composing for young orchestras, this conversation
is full of valuable insights from one of the most respected
voices in our field.








— BIOGRAPHY —


Perry Holbrook serves as the Artistic Director of Orchestras at
Walton High School. Over the past 25 years he has guided the
program’s growth from 130 to more than 300 students. Under his
leadership, Walton ensembles have earned multiple invitations to
perform at The Midwest Clinic, the ASTA National Conference, and
the Georgia Music Educators Association In-Service Conference, as
well as completing several European concert tours.





Beyond his own program, Dr. Holbrook is a sought-after guest
conductor and clinician. He has led state, regional, and national
honor orchestras and has presented sessions at major professional
gatherings, including The Midwest Clinic, ASTA, the Georgia Music
Educators Association, and the Texas Music Educators Association.
He also teaches AP Music Theory at Walton.





In addition to his teaching and conducting, Dr. Holbrook is an
accomplished composer. His original works, including Someday,
Never Summer Mountain, Acadian Solstice, and Bear on the Square,
have been recognized as JW Pepper Editor’s Choice selections and
are performed by ensembles nationwide. Notably, Someday has been
featured by all-state orchestras and at state music educator
conventions, reflecting his commitment to creating music that is
both pedagogically meaningful and artistically engaging for
developing orchestra students. Dr. Holbrook is looking forward to
four new releases in 2026.





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