Biography

Desmond Armentrout, Ph.D.

Home Town: Atlantic, Iowa

Education: Morningside University,
University of South Florida,
University of Massachusetts Amherst

Desmond Armentrout is an experienced music educator, researcher, and advocate specializing in instrumental music education, technology integration, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity. He holds a Ph.D. in Music Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where his research focused on creating safe, inclusive learning environments for LGBTQ+ students in music education and leveraging technology to enhance student engagement and creativity. He currently serves as an adjunct professor at Des Moines Area Community College, where he teaches Arts Humanities, and as an ACT Project Reliability Scoring Supervisor with Pearson.

Desmond has a rich teaching background that spans both K-12 and higher education. He has supported the music education department at UMass Amherst by teaching courses in music appreciation, introductory music education, and elementary/secondary music methods. His work in K-12 education includes his role as the 5-12 Instrumental Music Instructor for the Elk Horn-Kimballton Community School District, where he directed marching and jazz ensembles, pep bands, and various instrumental groups. His contributions to Elk Horn-Kimballton extended beyond music as he led the development of the district's website, co-directed technology initiatives, and taught technology classes to middle school students.

As an active presenter, Desmond has shared his research on LGBTQ+ inclusivity and technology in music education at national and international conferences, including the International Society for Music Education, the Association for Technology in Music Instruction, and the College Music Society National Conference. His presentations and workshops highlight his dedication to fostering inclusive, engaging music classrooms and supporting educators in integrating technology effectively.

Desmond has been a member of several professional organizations, including the Iowa Bandmasters Association, the Southwest Iowa Bandmasters Association (where he served as Chair of Research and Development from 2004-2007), and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia fraternity. Additionally, he is a founding member of the Cass County Community Band, Atlantic Eight Jazz Combo, and Cass County Community Dance Band. His performance history includes participation in the Morningside College World Music Ensemble, the Singing Men of Morningside, and collaboration with the Sioux City Symphony Orchestra.

In addition to his academic and professional endeavors, Desmond is passionate about community engagement. He has worked with various LGBTQ+ organizations to support education and advocacy initiatives and enjoys sharing his love for music as a DJ at events in the Atlantic and Des Moines areas. In his spare time, he enjoys landscaping, cooking, storm chasing, and traveling.