Biography

SFC Matt Gaunitz holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance from Iowa State University, where he studied with Dr. James Bovinette. Gaunitz then went on to earn his Master of Music degree in Trumpet Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music. While at NEC, his principal teachers included Thomas Siders and Benjamin Wright, both of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Prior to joining The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own”, Gaunitz was a member of the U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps from 2017-2024. Before joining the Army, Gaunitz was an active freelancer in Iowa as well as an instructor at Loras College, The University of Dubuque, and Northeast Iowa Community College. Outside of the band, Gaunitz enjoys freelancing in the area, playing in local community ensembles, and enjoying the many recreational opportunities available in Northern Virginia, and the surrounding area. He currently resides in Reston, VA with his wife and their two pets.