Multiple movement methods have been used in the music classroom for educational and research purposes. Laban Movement Analysis (LMA) is a movement framework that has been used with conductors, but there is limited research using Laban movements with K-12 band ensemble students. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Laban instruction on the recognition and performance response to movement gestures among seventh- and eighth-grade band students (N = 44). I used a quantitative one-group pretest posttest design with Laban movement sessions as the treatment. The study took place during normal class time in the Fall of 2023 at a mid-Atlantic region public school. Data collected included an eight-question written assessment administered to all subjects in a group setting, an individual performance test completed one-on-one, and a group ensemble performance test administered to all subjects in a group setting. Each assessment was analyzed using a paired samples t-test to compare paired sample differences between pretest and posttest scores. The results of this study indicated significant effects of Laban movement instruction on middle school instrumentalists' gesture recognition, particularly evident in total scores in the written assessment (p = 0.016), individual performance assessment (p < 0.001), and group ensemble performance assessment (p = 0.001). The findings suggest that middle school students can recognize Laban movements when used by a conductor and respond appropriately to the gestures on their instruments. Given this study's findings, ensemble music educators, conductors, and preservice music teachers may find value in training with Laban Efforts, as this approach could support the development of ensemble performance skills and deepen students' comprehension of conducting gestures. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]