Associate Professor of Music Matthew Luttrell will present Midwestern State University’s next Faculty Forum talk at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 9, in Clark Student Center’s Comanche Suites South. His topic is “Great Conductors: Enhancing Interpersonal Communication through Physical Intelligence.”

Luttrell says there is little doubt that the rise of technology (social media, cell phones, email, Twitter, etc.) has been a double-edged sword. “On the one hand, we can reach people halfway around the world in a matter of seconds. On the other, we have seen a sharp decline in the ability to functionally communicate face-to-face with individuals and in group settings,” he said.

Luttrell’s presentation will provide examples, techniques, concepts, and real-world applications for audience members to strengthen their interpersonal communication and alleviate the awkwardness and fear of person-to-person communication.

In addition to serving as director of bands and orchestra and the wind ensemble and symphony orchestra, Luttrell teaches advanced conducting and secondary foundations of music education for all music majors. He is conductor and artistic director of the Wichita Falls Youth Symphony Orchestra, a community outreach organization for aspiring young musicians. As a performer, he serves as second trombonist in the Wichita Falls Symphony Orchestra.

Faculty Forum is a monthly showcase for the research and creative endeavors of the MSU Texas faculty. It is an opportunity for the campus and Wichita Falls communities to learn, engage, and sometimes discuss the novel ideas and explorations of the talented individuals who teach, discover, and create at MSU Texas. Admission is free and open to all. Contact Jonathan Price by email or call 940-397-4288 for more information.