Stephen Williams
Orchestra Director
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EDUCATION
-Bachelors. of Music, Coastal Carolina -Masters in Music Education, Coastal Carolina University EXPERIENCE / SKILLS
Mr. Stephen Williams is an accomplished educator and musician, dedicated to advancing the field of music education in South Carolina. He holds a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Coastal Carolina University and a Bachelors of Music in Music Education. Mr. Williams has been the Orchestra Director at Carolina Forest High School since 2014 and has crafted a program with a reputation for excellence in teaching and mentorship. His previous roles include Orchestra Director at Black Water Middle School and Orchestra Director for Georgetown County Strings. Additionally, he contributes his expertise as a Sectional Violin/Viola Coach for the Long Bay Symphony Youth Orchestra, Long Bay Youth String Ensemble, and guest coach/director of the Salt Water Chamber Orchestra in Myrtle Beach, SC. Williams also conducted a staff development for Horry County schools, geared towards helping educators without a string background teach orchestra more efficiently. Mr. Williams' orchestras have consistently achieved high honors in competitions. On top of having been an adjudicator for music festivals, his high school orchestra received Superior ratings at the SC Concert Performance Assessment for the last 11 years, culminating in a Superior with Distinction in 2023. His middle school orchestras have also excelled, receiving Superior ratings at both the SC Concert Performance Assessment and the Carowinds Music Festival. In addition to his teaching accomplishments, Mr. Williams has an extensive conducting background. He served as the Assistant Director for Coastal Carolina University's Concert Choir and has been a guest conductor for various ensembles, including the Trinity Choir. He directed the Florence All City Honors Orchestra, and his involvement in music education extends to participating in the Wichita Kansas Summer Music Camp as well. As a vocalist and violinist, Williams has showcased his talents both in South and North Carolina. He performed in Don Bowen’s God With Us at the Palace Theatre and has been an active member of the Florence Symphony. He is also a longstanding member of the Long Bay Symphony in Myrtle Beach, contributing to the region's vibrant music scene since 2007. Mr. Williams' contributions to music education have not gone unnoticed, as he has been nominated for several prestigious awards, including the All County Director Nominee for Horry County Schools and the SC Music Educator Nominee in 2015. He directed the Florence, SC All City Orchestra in 2018, further establishing his leadership in the field. He is a proud member of the SC Music Educators Association, reflecting his commitment to professional development and advocacy for string education. Through his dedication to teaching, conducting, and performing, Mr. Stephen Williams continues to inspire students and foster a love for music in his community. |
