Dión Morales (pronounced: dee-oan) was born, raised, and lives in Chicago, Illinois, with his wife and two daughters. He began his orchestral studies as a high school student at Lane Tech College Prep High School in the Chicago Public School system. Dión received his undergraduate degree in music education from VanderCook College of Music in 2010 and returned to VanderCook for his Master’s degree, which he completed in 2021. He has taught elementary and middle school orchestra in Des Plaines District 62 since 2010. Additionally, as of 2024 he is an adjunct professor of String Arranging and String Music Education at VanderCook College of Music.

His journey as a composer and arranger started with the development of the “Composers of Color Project,” through which he arranged for school orchestra programs, music written by minority composers. The publication of the works from this project led to opportunities to add his own musical ideas to the orchestral repertoire, including original educational compositions and music for various media projects. In addition to writing for his own students, Dión has also been commissioned by schools ranging from elementary through college level repertoire for special events and performances.

Dión also has a passion for being on the podium. He has used his skills as a guest conductor and clinician for the NYSSMA Allstate Zone 3 HS Full Orchestra, Anne Arundel County HS Orchestra, Indiana Allstate Jr. Orchestra, John Hersey High School Orchestra Festival,  and more. He is also in demand as a clinician for his ability to give students a high quality, positive and memorable experience. His full catalog, resume, and contact information can be found on his website, dionmorales.com.

Devon Morales is the Orchestra Director and Music Department Chair at Lane Tech High School in Chicago, Illinois, a position she has held since 2012. She received her Bachelor of Music Education degree from VanderCook College of Music in 2012 and returned to VanderCook to complete her Master of Music Education degree in 2021.

Originally from Ohio, Devon has called Chicago home since 2008. She began studying violin at the age of nine, and her early experiences as a young musician helped shape her passion for teaching orchestra. At Lane Tech, Devon works with students of all levels and playing abilities, from students beginning their musical journey to highly advanced musicians selected for ILMEA All-State Orchestras.

Devon is committed to creating an orchestra program where students feel supported, challenged, and welcomed. Her teaching emphasizes strong fundamentals, musical growth, and a positive ensemble experience for every student. As Music Department Chair, she also plays an important leadership role in supporting the broader music program at Lane Tech, helping foster a department culture that values student growth, collaboration, and meaningful musical experiences.

Devon lives in Chicago with her husband, fellow orchestra director and composer Dión Morales, their two daughters, Arwen and Elara, and their dog, Cici. Outside of teaching, Devon loves spending time with her family and organizing fun outings around Chicago. She also enjoys Irish folk music, photography, and reading.