Naff, a former conductor of the Duke University Wind Symphony, is semi-retired as the Director of the Spirit of America National Honor Band and now works as a consultant with bands, orchestras, and choirs, and with groups traveling to Europe. An active arranger/composer and consultant for a number of high school and university bands, his music is published by Matrix Publications and Spirit of America Press. He is a frequent guest conductor and adjudicator for band, orchestral, and choral performances in the eastern United States. Dr. Naff has taught instrumental music on every level, and has served as a clinician for hundreds of groups across the country. A former member of the United States Air Force Band, he also served as a high school band director and as a former director of the Symphonic, Marching, and Stage Bands at East Carolina University and East Tennessee State University
"George Naff is one of the great music educators in our country. Those who have had the opportunity to work with George take music away with them not only in their heads, but in their hearts! The gifts George offered as my teacher remain with me today!"
Dr. Jack Stamp, Composer/Conductor, Professor and Chair of the Music Department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania
"The aural experience and its pedagogy is the most difficult of all music teaching, but is imperative for musical success. George Naff has a unique and superb approach to teaching students to hear and to discriminate pitch. I have observed Dr. Naff’s work, and it is amazingly effective. He combines his own approach with elements of the Kodaĺy system, and the results begin immediately." Francis McBeth, Composer/Conductor
"George Naff is one of the most knowledgeable, talented, creative, and compassionate people I have known. It is a highly rewarding experience to observe his unique approaches in conducting and teaching young musicians as well as seasoned educators. The results are fruitful and exciting!"
Dr. Jared Spears, Composer/Conductor
"Dr. George Naff warmly and eagerly shares his talent and immense wealth of musical knowledge with music students and music professionals of all ages. He challenges and inspires people to make beautiful music, to work with others to achieve a common purpose, to desire to know more, to try harder, and to pursue new levels of personal and musical excellence. My mentor, colleague, and friend, George Naff has profoundly impacted my life and the lives of countless thousands." Dr. Rod Harkins, Arranger/Composer/Music Educator/Director Spirit of America Press
"George Naff is an amazing music educator! He possesses a rare combination of outstanding musicianship with the ability to connect with students of all ages, and constantly challenges and motivates students to listen and perform passionately. George's compassionate nature and love of music is inspiring!"
Dr. Christopher Knighten, Director of Athletic Bands and Associate Professor of Music in the University of Arkansas Department of Music.
