Dr. Pamela L. Klena serves as Visiting Assistant Professor of Music at Oakland University where she conducts the Oakland University Symphonic Band, teaches elementary and secondary instrumental music education methods courses, and supervises student teachers. Dr. Klena earned a BME from Lee University, a MM in Wind Conducting from Central Michigan University, and a DMA from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Prior to her graduate studies, Dr. Klena was the Director of Bands at Trinity Christian School in GA where she taught beginning, middle, and high school band, general music courses, and conducted school musicals. She has traveled extensively, promoting music education and leading masterclasses in countries such as Jordan, Brazil, and Kenya.
Dr. Klena’s primary research interest is gender inclusivity among conductors and is supported in her dissertation, “Toward a More Inclusive Profession: A Qualitative Study of Female Wind Band Conductors” that documents trends and life experiences of prominent female conductors. Other research interests include audience engagement and recruitment in the 21st century. She believes this continuing research will enhance the field of music and conducting while the existence of wind band music in the academic environment continues to flourish. Dr. Klena is honored to be a recipient of the CBDNA Mike Moss Study Grant in 2018. Additionally, she is a proud member of the College Band Directors National Association, National Association for Music Education, Women Band Directors International , College Music Society, Conductors Guild, Sigma Alpha Iota, Kappa Kappa Psi, and Pi Kappa Lambda.