Director

Dr. Joseph Parisi

Joseph Parisi the founder and Director of the Johnson County Parks and Recreation, New Horizons Band. Dr. Parisi a Curator’s Distinguished Professor at the UMKC Conservatory, where he passionately guides the Conservatory Wind Ensemble and contributes as a dedicated member of the conducting and music education faculty. Internationally acknowledged for his multifaceted roles as a conductor, clinician, performing artist, pedagogue, and scholar, Parisi's work resonates across the global music community.

With an enduring commitment to collaboration, Parisi actively engages with celebrated artists, fostering a dynamic environment that results in the creation of innovative compositions for wind bands, chamber winds, brass bands, symphonic brass, and soloists. His extensive recording portfolio, both as a performer and conductor, reflects a lifetime dedicated to musical excellence. 

Parisi serves as the principal conductor of Summit Brass at the Rafael Méndez Brass Institute (www.mendezbrassinstitute.com) and the Fountain City Brass Band (www.fcbb.net), roles that solidify his standing as a leading conductor within the United States. His ability to inspire musicians under his guidance has earned him acclaim as "a vibrant force on the podium, who inspires all of the musicians under his baton. He is a wonderfully collaborative person whose energy is infectious," as praised by David Hickman of Summit Brass.

Dr. Parisi earned a bachelor's degree in music education from the prestigious State University of New York at Potsdam's Crane School of Music, a master's degree in trumpet performance and a Ph.D. in instrumental conducting/music education, both from the Florida State University.

Throughout his tenure at the UMKC Conservatory, Parisi's contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including several teaching awards, awards for outstanding research, and numerous awards for his service to the profession. His enduring commitment to the world of music education and performance continues to inspire and enrich the musical landscape.