About LaSaundra
Dr. LaSaundra Belcher is a respected conductor, educator, and arts leader whose career spans more than two decades of service in public schools, higher education, and community music programs. She is the Founder and Executive Director of the Wake Forest Community Youth Orchestra (WFCYO), where she leads initiatives that make high-quality music instruction more widely available to students in North Carolina—many of whom reside in rural or economically challenged areas. Her leadership has helped hundreds of young musicians thrive through structured training, personal mentorship, and performance-based learning.
Dr. Belcher is in demand as a guest conductor and clinician for All-State and Honors Orchestras nationwide, with recent appearances in Montana, Georgia, California, Minnesota, Nevada, Florida and Texas. She is also a featured headliner at major music education conferences, including the Texas Music Educators Association, Michigan Music Conference, and NAfME Northwest Division Conference. In 2026, she will serve as adjudicator for the American String Teachers Association’s National Orchestra Festival
In addition to her guest conducting work, Dr. Belcher teaches at Shenandoah University, where she helps prepare future studio teachers and arts entrepreneurs for successful independent careers. She has also taught at UNC-Chapel Hill and Winston-Salem State University, where her mentorship of student teachers has consistently led to strong licensure and job placement outcomes.
Dr. Belcher is a project leader for the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), where she supports professional learning for K–12 music educators. Her focus is on equipping teachers with practical strategies that foster student growth, increase engagement, and support academic achievement through music.
A skilled cellist and performer, Dr. Belcher is principal cellist of Integrity Strings, a professional ensemble performing at special events and venues throughout the Southeast. She is also a former featured artist with the Color of Music Festival and has performed with the Durham Symphony, Greensboro Philharmonia, and others.
Dr. Belcher holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, a Master’s in Music Education, and a Bachelor’s in Cello Performance. Her work reflects a deep commitment to musical excellence, student development, and building strong, sustainable programs that serve the broader community.
Now booking: Youth Orchestra Conducting | Conference Keynotes | Educator Training | Virtual Events