Justin Mertz

Justin J. Mertz is Associate Director of Bands at UNI. He directs the Panther Marching Band, conducts the Symphonic Band, and teaches courses inmusic education. Prior to his appointment at UNI, he was Assistant Director of Bands and Director of Athletic Bands at Syracuse University, where he was co-conductor of the Wind Ensemble and conductor of the Symphony Band and Concert Band. A native of Massapequa, New York, he has held teaching positions in the Alief Independent School District in Houston, Texas, and the Westmoreland Central School District in Westmoreland, New York.  Under his direction, the Syracuse University Marching Band has performed for numerous postseason bowl games, NFL games, CFL games, the Heisman Trophy Gala in New York City, and Super Bowl XLVIII. Additionally, he writes drill for competitive high school marching bands in the Northeast and Midwest. He holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Syracuse University and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from at Boston University. 

Dr. Mertz has contributed to the educational series Teaching Music Through Performance in Band, produced and conducted on a number of SU Wind Ensemble recordings for Mark Records, His professional memberships include the College Band Directors National Association and the Iowa Bandmasters Association. Dr. Mertz is an active guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator throughout the United States, where he works with students at all levels.