Brenda E. Austin
Brenda E. Austin is a dynamic and energetic conductor, clinician, and composer connecting musicians through handbells. In 2023, she was named Music Director for Embellish Handbell Ensemble. Before joining Embellish, she served as the Artistic Director for the Detroit Handbell Ensemble since 2016. Under her baton, DHE was honored to open the Handbell Musicians of America National Seminar in 2018 and be the featured concert for HMA’s AREA 2 2019 Festival in Lancaster, PA. Additionally, she has served First United Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids, MI, as Director of Music since 2003. She is also active in the community directing children’s musical theatre.
Brenda graduated with a degree in Vocal Performance from Western Michigan University and a Master's of Music in Choral Conducting from the University of Missouri – Kansas City. She studied with Craig Arnold, Steve Zegree, and Eph Ehly.
Brenda is in demand as a handbell clinician throughout the year and has been the conductor and clinician at numerous festivals and workshops including HMA National Seminar and many area festivals. Additionally, she has had more than 85 titles published for handbells and sacred choral since 2015.
