About Green Baton

Experience, perspective, and a continued purpose.

Meet Desiree Overree, the educator and conductor behind Green Baton, who brings decades of experience to helping music educators lead and grow.

Cellists performing together in an orchestra

Our Mission

Backed by experience, built for today.

Practical toolsResources and strategies ready for the work educators do every day.
Insightful guidanceExperience and perspective for the decisions in front of you.
Meaningful supportProfessional learning and mentorship that continue beyond one session.

About Desiree

A Career Built Around Music Educators

Throughout more than 30 years in music education, I have worked to build strong programs, create meaningful musical experiences, and support fellow educators. I spent 21 years developing the orchestra program at Seven Lakes High School from the school’s opening into a community of more than 280 string players across seven ensembles. After retiring from public education, I founded Green Baton in 2026 to continue serving music educators as a conductor, clinician, adjudicator, presenter, consultant, and mentor.

Desiree Overree conducting an orchestra
Desiree Overree Founder, Green Baton

Program Leadership

Built the Seven Lakes orchestra program to more than 280 string players performing in seven ensembles.

State & National Recognition

Led ensembles to TMEA Honor Full Orchestra titles in 2016 and 2020, the 2024 TMEA Honor String Orchestra title, Mark of Excellence National Orchestra recognition, five American Prize wins by the Symphony Orchestra, and a Music for All National Festival appearance.

Educator Honors

Recognized with the Yale Distinguished Music Educator Award, University of Chicago Outstanding Educator Award, NSHSS Educator of Distinction, The American Prize Honored Artist designation, and Mu Omicron’s Kathy Fishburn “Excellence in Orchestra” Award.

Professional Leadership

Serves as Vice-President of Mu Omicron and an Educational Consultant for Music for All, with professional memberships in ASTA, TMAA, TMEA, TODA, and Mu Omicron.