Biography

SSG Nathaniel Penven, from Blacksburg, VA, joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” as a Staff Librarian in 2026. Prior to his appointment, he earned his Bachelor of Music Education and Master of Music Performance degrees from West Virginia University, studying saxophone principally with Dr. Jeff Siegfried. SSG Penven joins the unit from the 249th Army Band of the West Virginia National Guard, where he enlisted and served in since 2021. A performer of diverse genres, Nate has played with a wide range of groups including the United States Army Field Band, the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra, and a multitude of university and community groups throughout West Virginia and Pennsylvania. His accolades include being named as a winner of the WVU 2022 Young Artist Competition for his performance of “Rhapsody for Baritone Saxophone and Orchestra” by Mark Watters. As a librarian, SSG Penven brings a unique skillset developed and informed by positions in West Virginia University Libraries, Penn State University Libraries, the American Philatelic Research Library, and performance organizations including the WVU Bands and the 249th Army Band. When not in the library or playing the sax, Penven enjoys reading, going to the gym, playing video games with far-flung friends, and exploring Washington D.C.