Michael Ver Voort is in his eighth year of teaching music at Middleton High School. As Co-Director of Bands, Mr. Ver Voort is actively involved in the concert and chamber ensembles, marching band, pep bands, jazz bands, and music production. He also was recognized by the University of Chicago for excellence in teaching and mentorship as an Outstanding Educator in 2018.
During his time at Middleton High School, the Band Department has seen many changes, including an overhaul of concert ensembles, jazz bands, pep bands, marching band, and general music instruction. The program has grown by several hundred members and has welcomed two new full-time band directors to the team.
In addition to four curricular band classes and an orchestra class, Mr. Ver Voort oversees the operations of the band department and is dedicated to the success of each student. During the fall semester, concert ensembles break out into chamber ensembles and spend a considerable amount of time focusing on individual and small group instruction taught by a team of artistic staff who specialize on a specific instrument. Members of MHS Bands participated in over 850 events at the WSMA Solo and Ensemble Festival in 2019 and will be sending many qualifying events to the state level festival this spring. Mr. Ver Voort instructs the award-winning clarinet choir as well as other chamber wind groups.
Outside of the high school, Mr.Ver Voort maintains a small trumpet studio, containing students that have been accepted into the National Trumpet Competition, earned scholarships for festivals, colleges, and summer music clinics. He also performs with several local ensembles on trumpet, tuba, trombone, and clarinet.
“Coach Mike” also serves as an assistant coach for the school’s men’s swim team. This past year the team took second place at the WIAA State Conference.
Email: mvervoort@mcpasd.k12.wi.us