About

American conductor, clarinetist, and arranger Dr. Luci Disano wields a dynamism as singular as it is fierce. Among a select few that have served as conductor, soloist, and ensemble member with “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, Luci’s versatility and experience has placed her in high demand across the United States. 

Known for her magnetic, commanding presence on the podium, Luci made her conducting debut in 2016 leading “The President’s Own” on the steps of the U.S. Capitol.  In 2021 Luci earned a doctorate of Conducting from the University of Maryland, and she is currently serving as the Director of the Washington College Symphonic Band.

In addition to her performing work, Luci is also passionate about growing the wind ensemble repertoire.  Her arrangements have been sought after by both professional and student ensembles, receiving high-profile performances at CBDNA, The Midwest Clinic, and most recently on the Marine Band’s national tour.

Trained as a clarinetist, she has been the featured soloist with military bands and university wind ensembles performing works including Artie Shaw’s Concerto for Clarinet and Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto; descriptions of her performances range from “effortlessly virtuosic” to “utterly delightful”. As a clinician and guest artist, she works with dozens of leading universities, secondary, and primary schools across the country.

A specialist in practice pedagogy and audition preparation, Luci teaches workshops to every age group. From elementary school students to musicians at the university level, her workshops have included chamber music collaboration, inspired musicianship, and advanced concepts like score study and audition recording preparation. In all, thousands of students have worked with Luci throughout the United States, including at universities such as Rutgers, Texas A&M, and Penn State; at advanced youth programs like the Saint Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra; and at dozens of schools across the country.

Luci holds degrees from the Eastman School of Music (B.M.), University of Northern Colorado (M.M.), and the University of Maryland (D.M.A.), with additional education from the New England Conservatory. Her research has been published in the WASBE Journal and presented at CBDNA Eastern Division. She draws creative inspiration from innovative contemporary composers such as Michael Gilbertson, Gareth Coker, and Caroline Shaw. Ever fascinated with nature, she maintains a garden and backyard apiary at her home in Washington, D.C..