Dr. David Vroman
While not every student or alumni may be able to say that they had Dr. Vroman as a professor, or could even tell you what department he is under, most could probably recognize him upon sight. He’s been standing behind the goal post at Carver Arena for just over 22 years now as the Director of Bands (including the basketball band)and Chairperson of the Music Department. But there is a lot more to Dr. Vroman and Faculty Q & A takes a look at Bradley’s most “visible” faculty member
Tell us a little bit about your personal background—where did you grow-up, go to college, etc.
I was born in Princeton, IL and have spent all my life here in Central Illinois including Princeton, Oregon, Peoria, Metamora and eventually East Peoria. My mom taught grade school in District #86 in East Peoria and my dad was the band director at East Peoria Community High School for many years. I graduated from East Peoria and then went on to Western Illinois University to major in music education. I student taught in Mendota, IL with a terrific man, Robert Baile. My first job was in Pinckneyville, IL as the high school band and choir director. I stayed in Pinckneyville for 5 years and then moved on to graduate school at the University of Illinois. My timing was great because my mentors at the U. of I. were outstanding; Dr. Harry Begian, Director of Bands; James Curnow, Composer and Assistant Director of Bands; and Gary Smith, Director of the Marching Illini; and many others. These individuals were leaders in the band world and they unselfishly provided me with some tremendous opportunities to gain teaching experience at the collegiate level. From Illinois it was on to Bradley.
How long have you been at Bradley University?
This is my 22nd year.
What is your official title and what are you involved with on campus?
Director of Bands and Chairperson for the Department of Music.
In that capacity I conduct three bands: Symphonic Winds, Symphonic Band and the Basketball Band. I teach courses including Marching Band Techniques, Brass Techniques, Advanced Instrumental Conducting and Music Appreciation. I also teach French Horn lessons to five horn majors. As the Department Chairperson I work with the faculty to ensure a strong academic program for our students and I coordinate things like budgets, facilities, equipment and more.
Why did you choose to work at Bradley?
I was very fortunate to interview for several positions after I left Illinois. I had gone to graduate school with the intention of pursuing another position as a high school band director but I enjoyed my time at Illinois so much that I began to think about college teaching. When I interviewed at a couple universities that had well-established music programs they were really hesitant about making any changes. But at the Bradley interview there was a really different viewpoint – their attitude was that if I could make it work the door was open to any ideas I might have that would impact the band and music program in a positive manner. To this day that is something that I have always enjoyed at Bradley, a willingness to allow creativity and imagination at work.
What’s your favorite class or organization that you are involved with on campus? The one I am standing in front of at the time – I really enjoy all I do.
What has been the biggest change that you have seen on campus since you have been working here?
The growth of our Music Department has been very significant – we have gone from about 25 majors to over 100 and from 100 students in our ensembles to over 400. And, believe it or not, I think the aesthetics of the campus have improved in the last 20 years. When I arrived the grass was mostly just dirt and it was tough to find a flower anywhere. I also think the housing available to our students across University has been a great step in the right direction and I am looking forward the recently announced 15 year building plan.
What would you like to see changed or improved on campus?
Most people who know me and are familiar with our program at Bradley know that I believe it is time for new rehearsal and performance facilities on campus. In our college we refer to this future site as the Renaissance Center for Creativity and the Arts. Structured correctly this building will impact all of our students, faculty, alumni and the entire Central Illinois community.
What is something that you think all new students at Bradley seem to have in common?
An interest in new experiences. Many students take advantage of concerts, plays, lectures, clubs, organizations, athletic events and other events that are available to them on the Bradley campus. There is no reason for a student to spend all their time in their dorm room.
What advice, if any, have you ever given to graduating seniors?
Today the individual who not only puts in the time, but puts in the effort is rewarded in whatever career they have chosen. Those who think ahead and do more than what is required in the professional world will undoubtedly experience great success. That said, each of us need to make decisions daily that will provide a satisfactory quality of life for ourselves as well as those around us who we care for.
What interaction have you had with alumni while working at Bradley?
It is always fun to receive an email, card or letter from alumni. In my position I have worked with many, many students who majored in something other than music and I enjoy hearing about their careers which are so different from mine. We have had alumni return to campus to perform recitals and master classes for our current students. Each year we continue to put together a Friends and Family Band that performs for basketball games while the students are gone on semester break. This group involves a number of alumni who dust off their horns to play “Charge On, Charge On Bradley” one more time.
On a personal note—your son just started at Bradley this year, do you think you understand his situations more because of all of your years around college students?
Michael is a freshman here at Bradley and he is enjoying it immensely. As a faculty member here, I think I do know what he is going through as he makes decisions in and out of the classroom.
Does he look at you as a “college expert?”
Not really, while he is not afraid to ask me a question he was ready for college and readily makes his own decisions.
What’s one thing you would like to pass on to alumni of Bradley?
Bradley is all about people. Continue to support us when you can and stay in touch. If you had a teacher or mentor who influenced you during your time here – take a minute and send them an email or a card and let them know. What you are doing now is important to us here today.
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