Simon Center, M145G
Education
- Ph.D. in Music Education and Orchestral Conducting, Florida State University, 2010
- M.F.A. in Instrumental Conducting, University of South Florida, 2003
- B.M.E., Florida State University, 1998
Biography
Frank M. Diaz is associate professor of music education and director of the Office of Wellness and Arts Health Initiatives (OWAHI) at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. He also serves as affiliate faculty for the IU Cognitive Science Program. His teaching focuses on string pedagogy, instrumental music education, and the integration of contemplative practices in musical training and performance.
Diaz’s research examines intersections between mindfulness, cognitive science, and music education, with particular attention to musicians’ wellness, performance psychology, and neurophenomenological approaches to understanding musical experience. His work has appeared in leading journals including the Journal of Research in Music Education, Psychology of Music, and Music Educators Journal. He is currently completing a book, Mindful Musicianship: Embracing Presence, Navigating Challenges, and Unleashing Creativity, forthcoming from GIA Publications.
As founding director of OWAHI, Diaz has developed comprehensive wellness programming for students at the Jacobs School, reaching over 2,000 participants annually through support services, educational workshops, and community outreach.
An active conductor and clinician, Diaz maintains a national presence through guest conducting engagements with honor orchestras, festival appearances, and teaching residencies, having worked with educators and performers in over 35 states.
He holds a Ph.D. in Music Education from Florida State University and serves as a Zen teacher in the Harada-Yasutani lineage, bringing contemplative perspectives to his scholarship on mindfulness, music education, and artistic development.