People Directory

Chris Dessent is a music educator, conductor, composer, and arranger. He currently serves as Assistant Band Director and Assistant Professor of Practice at Purdue University Fort Wayne. Prior to this position, Chris was an Associate Band Director at Fishers High School in Fishers, Indiana. His responsibilities included work with the school’s award-winning concert bands, marching band, and jazz bands. Under his direction, the FHS bands consistently received top ratings at state and national contests and festivals. Chris’ other responsibilities included work with the school’s pep band, pit orchestra, and chamber ensemble program. From 2015-2021, he served as a Band Director at Fishers Junior High School and Sand Creek Intermediate School. From 2012-2015, Chris taught K-8 general music, band, and choir in Cincinnati Public Schools.

Chris is also a highly sought-after clinician, adjudicator, and performer. He is on faculty with the Indiana Clarinet Experience, and frequently adjudicates for Bands of America events across the country. Chris is a woodwind specialist, maintaining a private studio of clarinet and saxophone students in his community. As a composer and arranger, his works for wind ensemble and other mediums reflect Chris' diverse musical experiences and interests.

A 2012 graduate of the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, Chris received a Bachelor of Music Education degree with High Distinction, studying clarinet with Howard Klug. In May of 2023, Chris received a Master of Music Education degree from Butler University in Indianapolis.