Kathryn M. Niemasik
Kathryn M. Niemasik returns to the Windham Concert Band as Music Director for our 2024 season. In addition to having conducted WCB from 2005-2008, Ms. Niemasik has a wealth of conducting experience from her careers in education and in the United States Army.
Ms. Niemasik received her Bachelor of Music degree from The Pennsylvania State University, Master of Music degree from The University of Connecticut and a 6th Year Professional Certificate from Central Connecticut State University. She is also a graduate of the United States Armed Forces School of Music.
In public education, Ms. Niemasik taught musicians at all levels from grade 4 through high school as well as at the university level. She taught instrumental music in the Mansfield Schools where she built the band program to a record high number of students involved and was recognized as Mansfield’s Teacher of the Year. During her tenure at Eastern Connecticut State University, she received an Excellence in Teaching Award as the Director of the Eastern Concert Band. In addition, Ms. Niemasik served as a festival adjudicator and guest conductor of high school festivals in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
Ms. Niemasik is also a retired soldier/musician having served in the United States Army, both active and reserve components, for a total of 29 years. She served on active duty as a trumpet player and vocalist with the 19th Army Band and in the 76th Division Band of the Army Reserve. After studying advanced conducting with ranking officers in U.S. Army Bands and attending officer training, she was appointed commander and conductor of the 94th Army Band and achieved the rank of Chief Warrant Officer. Of note among her various military awards and decorations are the Meritorious Service Medal with 3 oak leaf clusters and the esteemed Legion of Merit Medal.