Merle Danielson holds a B.A. Degree in music education from Bethel College, St. Paul, MN. and a Masters Degree from the Institute of Contemporary Music Education at the University of St. Thomas.

In addition to serving as principal conductor for the Shoreview Northern Lights Variety Band, Mr. Danielson also teaches instrumental music at St. Joseph's School in West St. Paul. Band participation at St. Joseph's has grown steadily under Mr. Danielson's leadership and guidance. The band program has expanded from a nucleus of 8 students in 1971 to as many as 220 two decades later.

Along with teaching, Merle is also a performing trombonist. He is a regular performer with both the Classic Brass, Inc. brass quintet and the K.C. Gospel Orchestra, and is a substitute performer with the Encore Wind Ensemble.

Mr. Danielson has distinguished himself through a military career in music as well. He retired in 1996 after 27 years of world-wide performing and conducting assignments with the 451st Army Band, based at Ft. Snelling, MN.

His experience as a performer, conductor and educator give Mr. Danielson the expertise that also make him a highly respected and sought-after music clinician and performance adjudicator.