leadership

SGM Craig Arnold

Upper Saddle River, NJ

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2001

Alum: The Eastman School of Music / The Manhattan School of Music

Prior to his position with "Pershing's Own", SGM Craig Arnold was a member of the Albany and Allentown Symphonies, The National Repertory Orchestra, The Metro Lyric Opera of New Jersey, The Monumental Brass Quintet, The Riverside Trombone Quartet, The Sonny Costanzo Big Band, Prince William Symphony and performed around the world with the European-based Philharmonic of the Nations from 1993-1996.He has performed with the Arlington, Annapolis, Maryland, Mid-Atlantic, Fairfax, Gettysburg, New World, Manassas Ballet Theatre Orchestra, and Chautauqua Symphonies, and the New Jersey Pops. He has spent summers at The Music Academy of the West, Pacific Music Festival, Grand Teton Orchestral Seminar, National Orchestral Institute, Waterloo Music Festival, Chautauqua School of Music, Eastern Music Festival, and the Tanglewood Empire Brass Seminar. His teachers include Stephen Norrell, Randall Campura, John Marcellus, Hal Janks, and David Fedderly. Arnold has dedicated much of his life outside of performing to music education. Before coming to the D.C. Area, he was a band director in the New Jersey Public Schools, and the New York City Arch Diocese. He currently maintains a very active private teaching schedule.

leadership

SGM Robert Moore

East Lansing, MI

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2003

Alum: Michigan State University / University of North Texas

SGM Rob Moore joined The US Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2003 as a section percussionist serving in The Ceremonial Band Element. Initially his duties included performing for Military Full Honor Funerals at Arlington National Cemetery as well as providing musical support for ceremonies at the White House, Pentagon, and throughout the Washington D.C. region. In 2006, Moore was selected as an associate Drum Major and began serving as an enlisted leader for Military Full Honor Funerals in Arlington Cemetery. Since then he has served in expanding Drum Major duties culminating as Unit Head Drum Major in 2019. SGM Moore now serves exclusively in this role, leading ceremonial missions throughout the DC area. Outside his Army Band commitments, Moore is a freelance percussionist in the Washington, D.C., area. He has also performed with the world renowned Brass Band of Battle Creek and the Baltimore Symphony. Moore graduated from the University of North Texas in 2003 with a Master of Music degree in Percussion Performance. While at North Texas, he enjoyed performing opportunities with the Wind Symphony and percussion ensemble and recording opportunities with musicians such as Keiko Abe, Christopher Deane, and Mark Ford. Moore also performed and toured with the UNT steel band and is a founding member of the Bain Percussion Group. While at UNT, Moore minored in wind ensemble conducting, studying with Eugene Corporon and Dennis Fisher. Moore also holds a BA in Music Education from Michigan State University where he studied percussion with Alison Shaw. Moore was an active marching percussionist at MSU, eventually serving as an assistant drum line instructor and arranger with the Spartan Marching Band and indoor drum line program. In 2000 and 2001 Moore served as a percussion instructor for the world champion Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps and performed with the Cavaliers front ensemble from 1996-1998. In 1999, Moore attended the Aspen Music Festival as a Zildjian scholar where he studied percussion with Doug Howard and Tom Stubbs.

leadership

SGM Benjamin Cadle

Crestview, FL

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2003

Alum: Louisiana State University / Louisiana State University

SGM Benjamin Cadle joined "Pershing's Own" in 2003. Cadle began playing horn at age 12. Upon graduating from Crestview High School in 1995, he attended Louisiana State University where in 1999 he received a bachelor's degree in music education. He also earned a master's degree in music performance in 2003. Cadle studied with Bruce Heim, professor of horn at the University of Louisville, and Seth Orgel, member of the Atlantic Brass Quintet and professor of horn at Louisiana State University. Prior to joining "Pershing's Own", Cadle performed with the Baton Rouge Symphony, the Boston Civic Orchestra, the Pensacola Symphony, the Tanglewood Music Center Orchestra, and the Atlantic Brass Quintet.

flute

MSG James Miller

Pontiac, MI

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2013

Alum: University of South Carolina-Columbia / University of NC at Greensboro

MSG James J. Miller is originally from Pontiac, Michigan. He joined Pershing’s Own in December 2013. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina - Columbia; a master’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where he was a graduate assistant and a Professional Artist Certificate from the North Carolina School of the Arts. Miller has been a prizewinner in numerous flute competitions including: MTNA Young Artist, SC Flute Society. He was the winner of the Concerto Competition at both the University of South Carolina and University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He has performed with the Western Piedmont Symphony, Fayetteville Symphony, Winston Salem Symphony, and Nova Chamber Orchestra. He has also been a featured soloist at the Piccolo Spoleto Festival in Charleston, SC and London International Poetry Festival in London, England. Miller joined the Army in July 2011. Before joining Pershing’s own he served in the 8th United States Army Band in Seoul, Korea and The United States Training and Doctrine Command band at Ft. Eustis, VA. MSG Miller is in active soloist, chamber musician and clinician. When not making music he enjoys volunteering, running, cooking, and traveling.

flute

SFC Sonia Dell'Omo

Alamogordo, NM

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2014

Alum: New Mexico State University / University of North Texas

Prior to joining “Pershing’s Own” in 2014, SFC Sonia C. Dell'Omo worked as an active freelancer and teacher in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. She performed regularly with ensembles including the Las Colinas Symphony Orchestra, the Dallas Wind Symphony, the Lone Star Wind Orchestra, the newly formed Avant Chamber Ballet, as well as the Las Cruces Symphony Orchestra in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Dell'Omo's teaching studio consisted of about 50 students in some of the most accomplished band programs in the state. She also worked as a clinician for the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra Wind Symphony, Lone Star Youth Winds, the Texas Flute Society, and several area band programs. Dell'Omo received a music education degree from New Mexico State University and a music performance degree at the University of North Texas. She served as the flute section leader in the UNT Wind Symphony and performed with the Symphony, Opera, New Music, and chamber ensembles.

clarinet

SGM Stacie Thompson

Springdale, AR

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2001

Alum: Arkansas Tech University / University of Arkansas / Michigan State University

MSG Stacie Thompson joined “Pershing’s Own” in 2001 as a clarinetist in the Ceremonial Band. Before joining the band, she was Assistant Professor of Clarinet at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. Additionally, Thompson performed with the Lansing, Jackson, Midland, and North Arkansas Symphony Orchestras, the Stone Fort Wind Quintet, and at the Vancouver and Belgium International Clarinet Association conferences. She earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in music and German from Arkansas Tech University, a Master of Music degree from the University of Arkansas - Fayetteville, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Michigan State University. Her clarinet teachers include Ed Abbott, Pat Ellison, Keith Koons, Barbara Rentschler, Robert Umiker, and Elsa Ludewig-Verdehr. Thompson lives with her husband and two kitties in Northern Virginia. When she’s not working for TUSAB, she enjoys home improvement, nature, photography, and walking on the beach.

clarinet

MSG Adrienne Hodges

Warrenville, IL

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2013

Alum: Eastman School of Music / Eastman School of Music

MSG Adrienne Hodges joined The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" in 2013. She began her military service in 2010 as a member of The U.S. Army Field Band. With The Army Field Band, she performed on national concert tours across the United States as a member of the concert band and woodwind quintet. Hodges received her Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from the Eastman School of Music, and her clarinet teachers include Jon Manasse, Susan Warner, Robert DiLutis, and Ken Grant.

clarinet

SFC David Mitchell

Nashville, TN

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2018

Alum: DePaul University

SSG Mitchell hails from Nashville, TN and joined the United States Army in 2009. Mitchell has proudly served in The United States Training and Doctrine Command Band, The United States Army Materiel Command Band, The United States Army Japan Band, and lastly The United States Army Ceremonial Band. SSG Mitchell has performed musical missions for the Army around the United States and the world including Kuwait, The United Arab Emirates, and Japan. After receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Performance from DePaul University in 1996, where he studied with Larry Combs and John Bruce Yeh of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Mitchell moved back to Nashville, TN. After arriving back in Nashville, he joined the faculty of Vanderbilt University and became a regular performer with the Nashville Symphony Orchestra. With the Nashville Symphony Orchestra, Mitchell routinely performed with the leading artists of the classical, pop, jazz, rock, and country genres and made numerous recordings. Mitchell performed at the grand opening of the Schermerhorn Symphony Center and joined the orchestra in their inaugural performance at Carnegie Hall.In addition to his work with the Nashville Symphony Orchestra, Mitchell was a member of the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra for 10 seasons and performed regularly with the Chattanooga Symphony Orchestra, the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, the Nashville Chamber Orchestra, and the Whitland Band of Renown.When not performing, Mitchell enjoys both analog and digital photography, writing letters, hiking, and spending time with his friends and family.

clarinet

SFC Christopher Reardon

Commack, NY

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2013

Alum: Indiana University / University of Maryland, College Park

SFC Christopher Reardon is a native of Long Island, NY. He received a Master of Music degree from University of Maryland, College Park and a Bachelor of Music degree from Indiana University studying with Eli Eban, David Jones and Chris Vadala. In 2010, Reardon accepted a position with The U.S Army Field Band at Fort Meade, MD, where he performed as clarinetist and saxophonist on concert tours throughout the United States. In 2013, he joined The U.S. Army Band’s Ceremonial Band as a member of the clarinet section. As a woodwind musician, Chris regularly performs with theater companies and orchestras around the Washington, D.C., and Baltimore areas and maintains a private studio for aspiring musicians.

clarinet

SSG Emily Kerski

Lakewood, CO

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2019

Alum: Colorado State University / DePaul University

SSG Emily Kerski joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2019. She earned her Master of Music with distinction at DePaul University and her Bachelor of Music summa cum laude at Colorado State University, studying with Julie DeRoche, Larry Combs, and Wesley Ferreira. She also studied with Angela Malsbury at the Royal Academy of Music. Prior to joining “Pershing’s Own”, Kerski was an active freelance performer and educator in Chicago, performing with Ensemble 20+, 5th Wave Collective, Noise Bias, and Chicago Symphonic Winds. A committed educator, Kerski was a faculty member of The People’s Music School and DePaul Community Music Division in Chicago, and a founding faculty member of the Junior Lift Clarinet Academy in Fort Collins, Colorado. During her year of study in London, she performed with the All Souls Orchestra at Royal Albert Hall and throughout the UK on their 2015 tour. An avid contemporary musician, Kerski performed as a Sinfonia Fellow at the 2017 soundSCAPE Composition and Performance Exchange in Maccagno, Italy, and co-founded the Modern Reeds contemporary recital series in Chicago, dedicated to the promotion and performance of chamber repertoire by emerging composers.

clarinet

SSG Rebecca J. McFarland

Fairfax, VA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2022

Alum: Virginia Tech / U of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music

SSG Rebecca J. McFarland is a native of Northern Virginia, and joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2022. She began her collegiate studies at Virginia Tech where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music with concentrations in clarinet performance and music education studying with Dr. David Widder. Following her undergraduate studies, McFarland pursued a Master of Music in clarinet performance at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music studying with Ron Aufmann of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. In addition to her collegiate studies, she has privately studied with Jennifer Trujillo, Rob Patterson, Kristen G. Sheridan, and Dr. Robert Little. Before joining “Pershing’s Own” McFarland worked as a freelance musician and music educator in the Washington D.C. area, and continues to maintain a private clarinet studio at her home in Ashburn, Virginia. Outside of teaching and playing the clarinet, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, baking, reading, and horseback riding.

clarinet

SSG Pavel Cislaru

Chisinău, Moldova,

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2023

Alum: Academy of Music, Theatre and Fine Arts- Moldova

SSG Pavel Cislaru was born and raised in Chisinău, Moldova. After receiving his bachelor's in Music and Clarinet performance in 2007, he moved to Italy where he was hired by the musical association, Caffe Concerto Strauss. In 2008, he performed at the famous Festival dei Due Mondi in Spoleto, Italy. Later in 2009, Cislaru started his career as a soloist in Venice at the prestigious Caffe Florian and Caffe Lavena. In 2015, he moved to the USA and after two years, joined the Army, serving in the 392nd Army Band and later Training and Doctrine Command Band. In his spare time, Cislaru enjoys cooking, exercising, singing in church, and spending time with family and friends.

clarinet

SSG Emory Freeman

Midlothian, VA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2024

Alum: Virginia Commonwealth University / University of Cincinatti-Conservatory of Music

SSG Emory Freeman joined the US Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2024. Prior to his enlistment, he worked on the administrative staff of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association, serving as the Operations Coordinator for the Civic Orchestra of Chicago. Freeman received his Bachelor of Music Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and his Master of Music Degree from the University of Cincinnati-College Conservatory of Music (CCM). During his time at CCM, he performed Leonard Bernstein’s Prelude, Fugue, and Riffs as a soloist with the CCM Wind Symphony. His past teachers include Dr. Charles West, Dr. Tiffany Valvo, Ixi Chen, and Chris Pell.

saxophone

MSG Matthew Carmichael

Bowling Green, KY

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2006

Alum: Western Kentucky University / Indiana University

MSG Matthew Carmichael was born in Winter Haven, Florida, and later settled with his family in Kentucky where he eventually attended Western Kentucky University. After receiving a bachelor's degree in Music Education from WKU, he completed a master's degree in Saxophone Performance at Indiana University. Carmichael’s primary saxophone teachers were Tod Kerstetter, John Cipolla, and Otis Murphy. In addition, he has received instruction from Eugene Rousseau, Clifford Leaman, Steve Stusek, Joseph Lulloff, and John Sampen. His collegiate achievements include performances with the Western Kentucky University faculty woodwind quintet and the Western Kentucky University wind ensemble, along with memberships in the following academic organizations: Golden Key, Pi Kappa Lambda and Phi Kappa Phi. He was also named a Yamaha Young Performing Artist in the summer of 2003. In June of 2006 Carmichael won an audition to join The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own."

saxophone

SFC Justin Polyblank

Scottdale, PA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2013

Alum: Indiana University of Pennsylvania / Indiana University

SFC Justin Polyblank hails from Scottdale, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science in Music Education. While there, he performed Claude T. Smith’s Fantasia with the IUP Wind Ensemble and Butler County Symphony Orchestra, and Pierre Max Dubois’ Concerto for Alto Saxophone and String Orchestra with the Johnstown Symphony Orchestra. He continued his studies at Indiana University Bloomington where he graduated from the Jacobs School of Music with a Master of Music in Jazz Studies and Saxophone Performance. While attending IUB, he performed in a variety of instrumental ensembles, including the David Baker Jazz Ensemble, Latin Jazz Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, New Music Ensemble, Philharmonic Orchestra, and several student jazz combos. During the 2011-12 academic year, Polyblank was Associate Instructor of Saxophone for the studio of Dr. Otis Murphy. Following graduation, Polyblank joined The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band in March 2013. Polyblank received Grand Prize & Gold Medal recognition at the 2012 Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition as a member of the Barkada Quartet. He was a member of The Disneyland Resort 2010 All-American College Band and has performed in concert alongside artists such as Wayne Bergeron, Chris Botti, Randy Brecker, John Clayton, Peter Erskine, Michael Feinstein, Gregg Field, Bob Mintzer, and The New York Standards Quartet. His teachers have included Otis Murphy, Tom Walsh, and Keith Young. Outside of his career in music, Polyblank enjoys cooking, exercising, and literature…and he is an avid fan of Pittsburgh professional sport teams.

saxophone

SFC Benjamin Bokor

Downers Grove, IL

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2017

Alum: Northwestern University / University of Maryland

SFC Benjamin Bokor grew up in Downers Grove, Illinois. In 2000, he earned a Bachelor of Music degree from Northwestern University, studying clarinet with Leslie Grimm and jazz saxophone with Michael Kocour. After teaching public school in Bergenfield, NJ and Chicago, IL, Bokor won a position with the Army Field Band in 2003. There he played clarinet in the concert band and was a featured jazz soloist and clinician. In 2008, Bokor accepted a position in the Naval Academy Band in Annapolis, Maryland. There he played clarinet in the concert band, bass clarinet in the clarinet quartet, lead alto saxophone in the Next Wave Jazz Ensemble, and saxophone in the Electric Brigade popular music group. While there he earned a Masters of Music in jazz saxophone at the University of Maryland, studying with Chris Vadala.In 2017, Bokor began his career in The United States Army Band as a ceremonial band saxophonist. In addition to his military duties, Bokor enjoys playing woodwinds for local musical theatre productions. He performs regularly at Signature Theater, the Kennedy Center, and Ford's Theatre. He currently is Instructor of clarinet at Catholic University of America.

saxophone

SFC Doug O'Connor

Potomac, MD

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2016

Alum: University of Maryland / Eastman School of Music / Eastman School of Music

SFC Doug O’Connor hails from Potomac, MD, where he began playing the saxophone at the age of 14, and joined The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" in April of 2016 as a member of the Ceremonial Band. He previously served with the U.S. Naval Academy Band, recently toured with the Airmen of Note, and taught saxophone and music theory at the University of Wisconsin in Eau Claire. O'Connor is an enthusiastic jazz and concert soloist, chamber musician, and supporter of new music: he has been a featured soloist with many orchestras, including the National Symphony Orchestra and the Thailand Philharmonic, he helped win many competitions and record new works with the Red Line Sax Quartet, and is the cofounder of Global Première, an online platform for funding and media support of new music commissions. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland, and Master’s and Doctoral degrees from the Eastman School of Music. When he isn't practicing or performing, O'Connor loves photography, running, adventure travel, and listening to all of the things on NPR.

saxophone

SSG Chance Stine

Madison, WI

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2022

Alum: University of Michigan / University of Texas at Austin

SSG Chance Stine comes from Madison, WI, where he grew up in a very musical home. An active performer and teacher, Stine keeps a diverse career which finds him employed on both the classical and jazz fronts, in addition to multiple woodwind work. Stine earned a BM in Instrumental Music Education from the University of Michigan, where he studied classical saxophone with Dr. Timothy McAllister and jazz with Dr. Andrew Bishop, and an MM in Saxophone Performance at the University of Texas at Austin, where he studied classical saxophone with Dr. Stephen Page and jazz with Dr. John Mills. Stine has performed with many orchestras, bands, classical ensembles, and jazz artists across America, such as the New World Symphony, Academy Festival Orchestra at the Music Academy of the West, Austin Symphony Orchestra, Jackson Symphony Orchestra, Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra, University of Michigan Symphony Band, University of Texas Wind Ensemble, Allen Vizzutti, The Glenn Miller Orchestra, and Manhattan Transfer. Stine has received many awards for his playing, including 1st prize in the Vandoren Emerging Artist Competition, national MTNA finalist, and others. When not working, Stine can be found reading, hiking, and avidly supporting Wisconsin sports.

saxophone

SSG Salvador Flores

Houston, TX

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2023

Alum: University of Michigan - Ann Arbor / University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

SSG Salvador Flores grew up in Houston, TX, where he started playing the saxophone at the age of 11. He is a musician of many colors, performing in a variety of styles including Classical, Mexican, R&B, and Jazz. Some of his most notable achievements include being named a 2020 Yamaha Young Performing Artist, the 1st Prize Winner of the 2020 North American Saxophone Alliance Solo Competition, a 2017 U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts, and a 2022 Performance Today Young Artist in Residence. An active chamber musician, he also serves as the soprano saxophone chair of the Aero Quartet. The group was named a 2021 Fischoff International Chamber Music Competition Gold Medalist and has gone on to perform and teach at a variety of locations across the United States. Salvador has completed both a B.M. and M.M. in Saxophone Performance, as well as an M.M. in Improvisation, at the University of Michigan under the direction of Dr. Timothy McAllister and Dr. Andrew Bishop. When he doesn’t have a saxophone in his hands, you can find him wandering the woods, learning random facts, cooking crispy skin salmon, or watching funny animal videos.

trumpet

SGM Matthew Byrne

Ronkonkoma, NY

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2004

Alum: Ithaca College / University of Louisville

SGM Matthew Byrne, trumpet, is currently a member of The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” and performs with the ceremonial band element of the unit. His primary duties include performing for ceremonies in Arlington National Ceremony and at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as military functions in and around Washington, D.C. Byrne began playing the trumpet in the fourth grade and after graduating from High School in 1991, attended Ithaca College on a viola scholarship, studied trumpet with Dr. Kim Dunnick, and earned a bachelor’s degree in Music Performance and Education. He then went on to teach strings in the public school systems of Long Island, NY and Guilford, CT. In 2002, Byrne returned to school as a teacher’s assistant at the University of Louisville. He graduated Phi Kappa Phi and earned his master’s degree in Music Performance studying with Dr. Michael Tunnell. While at the University of Louisville, he auditioned for and won a position with The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” and joined the unit upon completion of basic training in 2004. When not performing with the U.S. Army band, Byrne is active as a freelance musician in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, performing as a soloist and in chamber ensemble settings on both trumpet and viola.

trumpet

MSG Daniel Lindgren

Newton, KS

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2000

Alum: Wichita State University

MSG Dan Lindgren joined The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" in September of 2000. Prior to joining the Army, Lindgren graduated from Wichita State University with a bachelor's degree in trumpet performance. He then started a master's degree program at the University of North Texas.

trumpet

MSG Robert Goodner

Midwest City, OK

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2002

Alum: University of Oklahoma / Yale University / University of Maryland

trumpet

MSG Jeffrey Northman

Mt. Clemens, MI

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2012

Alum: Grand Valley State University / Rice University

MSG Jeffrey Northman began playing the trumpet at the age of 10, and by the time he had graduated high school knew that music would be his career. He attended Grand Valley State University for his Bachelor’s Degree and performed regularly in the area. In 2008 his picture and story were used for university recruitment on pamphlets and city buses, and he also took second place in the 2008 Trumpet Guild Mock Orchestra Competition. In 2010 he graduated from the Colburn Conservatory in Los Angeles, CA where he received his Artist’s Diploma. During the two year program he performed under world-renowned conductors such as Sir Neville Mariner, James Conlon, and Jahja Ling. In May of 2012 Jeffrey completed a Master’s Degree program from Rice University and moved directly into Basic Training in August to join The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” Ceremonial Band. Jeffrey currently resides in Alexandria, VA with his wife Chelsea, a high school history teacher, and their dog Morgan. During the summer Jeffrey can be found at the International Trumpet Seminar in Allendale, MI where he has been the Managing Director since 2010. His teachers include Jean Moorehead Libs, Richard Stoelzel, Jim Wilt, and Marie Speziale.

trumpet

MSG Kevin Gebo

Tallahassee, FL

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2007

Alum: University of Michigan / University of California-Los Angeles / Catholic University of America

MSG Kevin Gebo is an international prizewinning trumpeter as well as an active freelancer and soloist in the Washington Metropolitan Area. Gebo received a Bachelor's Degree in Trumpet Performance from the University of Michigan, Master's Degree from the University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) and a Doctorate degree from The Catholic University of America. Gebo frequently travels as a guest performer and clinician to universities and festivals and has been on faculty at The University of Arkansas, Fort Smith's "Brass Camp", California State University, Fresno's "Trumpet Festival", Grand Valley State University's "Trumpet Seminar", Northern Arizona University's "Curry Summer Music Camp" and Virginia Commonwealth University as Adjunct Professor of Trumpet. His performances have taken him all across the country as well as Canada, Austria, Australia and Germany. He was the principal trumpet on the Naxos recording of William Bolcom's "Songs of Innocence and Experience" which won four Grammy awards in 2006, including "Best Classical Album." Some of Gebo's most memorable experiences have been performing in the Inaugural Parade for President Barack Obama and on several live television and radio broadcasts. In December, 2010, Gebo was invited by Julia Fordham and Paul Reiser to perform as a featured guest on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" on their hit single "UnSung Hero".

trumpet

SFC Kevin Maloney

Burke, VA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2012

Alum: East Carolina University / Boston University / University of Michigan

SFC Kevin Maloney is an award winning soloist and chamber musician who has performed in Europe, Asia, Canada, and throughout the United States. Awards and recognition from national and international competitions include the Jeju International Brass Competition (2010); Ellsworth Smith International Solo Competition (2008); Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition (2007); North American Brass Band Association Championships (2006/2007); National Trumpet Competition (2005/2007); and the International Trumpet Guild Solo Competition (2005). Additionally in 2007, Maloney became the first trumpeter in over a decade to be named a winner in the Boston University Soloists Competition. As a chamber musician, Maloney has performed with some of today’s leading brass players and ensembles, including Boston Brass and the Brass Band of Battle Creek.A native of Burke, Virginia, Maloney attended East Carolina University (B.M.), Boston University (M.M./P.D.), and began doctoral studies at the University of Michigan. Primary teachers are Bill Siegfried, Britt Theurer, Terry Everson, Stephen Burns, William Campbell, and Bill Lucas. Additional studies with Laurie Frink, Gabrielle Cassone, and Jens Lindemann. Prior to joining “Pershing’s Own”, Maloney taught trumpet from 2007-2012 at Grand Valley State University in Allendale, MI. Currently, Kevin lives in Arlington, VA with his wife, Jamie, and their son, Maxon.

trumpet

SFC Christopher Watkins

Marietta, GA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2013

Alum: Louisiana State University / Manhattan School of Music

SFC Christopher Watkins, trumpeter for The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band, joined "Pershing's Own" in April of 2013. A native of Marietta, Georgia, he began playing trumpet at the age of 11. Watkins received a Bachelor of Music degree from Louisiana State University and completed his Master of Music degree at the Manhattan School of Music. His teachers include Mark Gould, David Bilger, Brian McWhorter, Brian Shaw, and his father, Alfred Watkins. Watkins was awarded fellowships with the International Lyric Academy and the Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival as part of the resident quintet. He has performed with the Tuscia Opera Festival, Ochestra Sinfonica del Progetto, One World Symphony, Cobb Wind Symphony, and Baton Rouge Symphony. When not making music, Watkins enjoys watching sporting events and rooting for his LSU Tigers football team.

trumpet

SFC Marty Bishop

Jonesboro, AR

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2013

Alum: University of Memphis / University of North Texas / University of North Texas

SFC Marty Bishop is a native of Jonesboro, Arkansas, and has been a member of the trumpet section in The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" Ceremonial Band since August of 2013. He received a bachelor's degree in music education from the University of Memphis in 2007 as a Clement Santi Scholar. In 2009, he earned a master's degree in trumpet performance from the University of North Texas where he was given the Outstanding Graduate Brass Student award. He then gained a Doctorate of Musical Arts in 2013 from the University of North Texas where he served as a Graduate Teaching Fellow. During his time at North Texas, Bishop was appointed trumpet section leader of the renowned North Texas Wind Symphony. He has performed with many other well-known ensembles such as Memphis Symphony, Ft. Worth Symphony, Dallas Opera, Lone Star Wind Orchestra, Texas Star Brass Band, and Orquesta Sinfonica UANL in Monterey, Mexico. His primary teachers include Keith Johnson, John Holt, Dr. David Spencer, and Richard Jorgensen.

trumpet

SFC Adrienne Doctor

Pittsburgh, PA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2014

Alum: University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music / U of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music

SFC Adrienne Doctor joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2014. Doctor grew up in Pittsburgh, PA. In 2011, she completed her undergraduate in music education at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music where she also finished her master's degree in trumpet performance. An active freelance musician and teacher, she has performed with Monarch Brass, Seraph Brass, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra, and the Dayton Philharmonic. She has also been a judge for military band mock auditions and competitions at various conferences to include the International Trumpet Guild, the National Trumpet Competition, and the International Women's Brass Conference. An active clinician, she has performed at and given masterclasses at dozens of universities around the country. Her primary teachers include Philip Collins, Alan Siebert, Roger Sherman, and Chris Gekker. Her husband is a bugle musician with the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps and they have a young daughter who thinks that everyone plays the trumpet.

trumpet

SFC Alicia Eisenstadt

St. Cloud, MN

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2014

Alum: St. Cloud State University / Roosevelt University

SFC Alicia Eisenstadt, a native from St. Cloud, Minnesota, began playing trumpet at the age of 12. She attended St. Cloud State University for her bachelor’s degree and performed regularly in the area. During this time, Eisenstadt performed as a featured soloist with the St. Cloud Symphony Orchestra and the St. Cloud State University Wind Ensemble. In 2013 Eisenstadt graduated from Roosevelt University in Chicago with her master’s degree. Eisenstadt performed with the Chicago Civic Orchestra, Evanston Symphony, and freelanced regularly in the area. Eisenstadt won the Chicago College of Performing Arts Concerto Competition in 2013, premiering the Plog Triple Concerto for trumpet, horn and piano. Eisendstadt’s teachers include Channing Philbrick, Mark Ridenour and Albert Moore.

trumpet

SFC John Powlison

Harrisburg, PA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2014

Alum: Indiana University of Pennsylvania / The Florida State University

SFC John Powlison has been playing the trumpet since the age of 10. A graduate of Cumberland Valley High School in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, he holds a bachelor's degree in Music Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a master's degree from The Florida State University, where he served as a graduate assistant. Prior to joining "Pershing's Own," Powlison was pursuing post-master's degree credits at the University of Michigan, while working as a graduate teaching assistant and playing second trumpet with the Michigan Faculty Brass Quintet. His principal teachers are William Stowman, Kevin Eisensmith, Christopher Moore, and William Campbell.

trumpet

SFC Kevin Paul

Los Angeles, CA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2018

Alum: Mannes College of Music / Manhattan School of Music

SFC Kevin Paul grew up in Los Angeles, California, and is currently a member of The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in Washington, D.C. He performs with the Ceremonial Band and Herald Trumpets. In 2018, Paul became a founding member of the U.S. Army Trumpet Ensemble, a group comprised of trumpeters from all factions of Army Music: Premier Bands, Regional Bands, and the U.S. Army School of Music. From 2013 to 2018, Kevin served with The United States Army Field Band and Federal Brass quintet. As a soloist, Kevin Paul has been featured with The U.S. Army Field Band on several concert tours, including performances of George Gershwin’s Preludes (arranged for trumpet) and John William’s With Malice Toward None from the motion picture “Lincoln.” Before joining the Army, Kevin served as Acting Principal Trumpet of the China National Symphony in 2013. Kevin attended the Manhattan School of Music in New York City where he earned a master's degree in music. He also holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the Mannes College of Music. Kevin studied with many current and former members of the New York Philharmonic including Vincent Penzarella, Tom Smith, Phil Smith and former principal trumpet of the Metropolitan Opera, Mark Gould.

trumpet

SFC Matthew Gaunitz

Lansing, IA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2024

Alum: Iowa State University / New England Conservatory of Music

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.

trumpet

SSG Jeff Lewandowski

Livonia, MI

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2024

Alum: Grand Valley State University / San Francisco Conservatory

SSG Jeff Lewandowski, a native of Livonia Michigan, joined “Pershing’s Own” in 2024. He was previously the principal trumpet of the United States Army Field Band Concert Band. He holds degrees from Grand Valley State University and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. His primary teachers include Mark Inouye, Philip Collins and Richard Stoelzel. As a freelance musician he has performed with a variety of ensembles including the San Francisco Symphony, San Francisco Opera, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, New World Symphony, Jacksonville Symphony, Alabama Symphony Orchestra, Grand Rapids Symphony, Brass Band of Battle Creek and many others. He was a member of the Lansing Symphony Orchestra, Flint Symphony Orchestra, Saginaw Bay Symphony Orchestra and the Midland Symphony Orchestra. He has attended the Texas Music Festival, New York String Orchestra Seminar, Chautauqua Music Festival, National Repertory Orchestra and the Weimar Bach Academy. SSG Lewandowski won first place in the International Trumpet Guild Orchestral Excerpts Competition, two first place prizes in the National Trumpet Competition Trumpet Ensemble Division, and was a three-time finalist for the NTC Solo Division.

trumpet

SSG Daniel Venora

West Hartford, CT

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2018

Alum: Ithaca College / Yale School of Music

SSG Daniel Venora joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” Ceremonial Band in August, 2018. Venora grew up in West Hartford, CT, and attended William H. Hall High School. Prior to joining “Pershing’s Own,” he graduated from Ithaca College in 2013 with a degree in music education and trumpet performance, and went on to complete a master’s degree in trumpet performance at the Yale School of Music. While at Ithaca, Venora performed as a finalist with the Ithaca College Trumpet Ensemble at the National Trumpet Competition in 2013. At Yale, he performed as a member of the resident brass quintet at the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival in 2015. In May, 2016, Venora moved to Massachusetts, where he worked for two years at S.E. Shires Company, a custom brass instrument manufacturer, and freelanced in the greater Boston area. Venora’s primary teachers include Allan Dean, Dr. Kim Dunnick, Larry Gareau, John Jeski, and Ray Torns.

trumpet

SSG Craig Basarich

Gurnee, IL

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2018

Alum: University of Northern Colorado / University of Maryland

SSG Craig Basarich joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” CeremonialBand in November 2018. A native of the Chicago area, Basarich grew up inGurnee, Illinois, and graduated from Warren Township High School. In 2013,Basarich graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with anundergraduate degree in music education. He went on to complete a master’sdegree in music performance at the University of Maryland. Prior to joining“Pershing’s Own,” Basarich was interim principal and third trumpet of the CapeSymphony Orchestra in Cape Cod, MA.Professionally, Craig has shared the stage with trumpet legends John Faddis,Greg Gisbert, and Terrell Stafford, pianist Cyrus Chestnut, folk musician MarkO’Connor, pianist Lise de la Salle, acoustic guitarist and YouTube star TraceBundy, and many more. Craig was a founding member of the Colorado-basedfunk and soul band “The Burroughs.” His primary teachers include Chris Gekker,Dr. John Adler, and Dr. Kevin Whalen.

trumpet

SSG Andrew Boylan

Houston, TX

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2020

Alum: Centre College / Ohio University / Indiana University Jacobs School of Music

SSG Andrew Boylan holds a Doctor of Music in Trumpet Performance from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, a Master of Music in Trumpet Performance from Ohio University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Centre College. He has performed with orchestras throughout the United States and has been on tour with chamber groups to South Korea, Mexico, and Greece. His teachers include John Rommel, John Schlabach, and Vince DiMartino. When not performing with the B5, Andrew enjoys spending time with his girlfriend and their cat, hiking, and cycling.

trumpet

SSG Chelsea Orr

Dallas, TX

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2020

Alum: Baylor University / Southern Methodist University

SSG Chelsea Orr joined "Pershing's Own" in July 2020. A native Texan, Orr holds degrees from Baylor University and Southern Methodist University and is currently finishing a DMA at the University of Texas at Austin. Orr is an award-winning soloist and chamber musician, competing in the Eric Aubier Competition in Rouen, France (2017), being selected a finalist numerous times as a soloist/ensemble member at the National Trumpet Competition (2009-2015), as well as competing in the prestigious Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition (2015). As an active performer and freelancer, she has played with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, Colorado Symphony Orchestra, and Austin Symphony Orchestra, in addition to sharing the stage with recording artists Adele, Ben Folds, and Idina Menzel. Orr has also held teaching/performing residencies at the Shanghai American School in Shanghai, China (December 2015) and the Aspen Music School and Festival (2016-2017). Her primary teachers include Wiff Rudd, Tom Booth, Ryan Anthony, Ray Sasaki, Marie Speziale, Billy Hunter, Michael Martin, and David Hickman.

trumpet

SSG Anthony Sadlon

Plainfield, IL

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2020

Alum: Indiana University / University of New Mexico

SSG Anthony Sadlon joined The U.S. Army Band "Pershing’s Own” in September 2020. Sadlon is a versatile performer and avid brass pedagog. He has traveled the world performing for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, played various national Broadway tours, and served as guest principal trumpet for the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, Phoenix Symphony, New Mexico Philharmonic, Santa Fe Symphony, Opera Southwest, and True Concord Voices & Orchestra. Anthony comes from Plainfield, Illinois. He marched with the Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps in 2002 and was a soloist in 2005. Anthony received a bachelor’s degree in music education from Indiana University in 2008 and a master’s degree in music performance from the University of New Mexico in 2012. His mentors include Daniel Zehringer, Stephen Burns, Joey Tartell, Edmund Cord, John Marchiando, JD Shaw, Bill Williams, and Chuck Berginc. Though performing is an integral part of Anthony’s career, his passion is passing on all he has learned along the way to students across the country. Teaching has been an integral part of his life since high school. Anthony served as lead teacher for the Young Musicians Initiative (an El Sistema program for the underprivileged youth in New Mexico) and a brass technician for numerous successful high school marching band programs in addition to developing a brass course at Mountain Ridge High School in Glendale, Arizona. He currently resides in Arlington, Virginia where he operates his own private studio.

trumpet

SSG Ryan Brewer

North Richland Hills, TX

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2020

Alum: University of North Texas / Stephen F. Austin State University

SSG Ryan Brewer is a native of North Richland Hills, Texas and has been a member of The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in Washington, D.C. since October 2020 where he performs with the Ceremonial Band and Herald Trumpets. From 2016 to 2020, Ryan served with The United States Army Field Band as co-principal trumpet and commercial/lead trumpet player of the Concert Band and Chamber Brass quintet. He is also a founding member of the U.S. Army Trumpet Ensemble, the Army’s first musical recruitment group that includes representatives of both premier and regional bands. Before joining the Army, Ryan was a fellow at National Repertory Orchestra and Texas Music Festival, as well as a freelance performer and music educator in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Ryan received a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of North Texas and a Master of Music degree from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX where he served as the graduate trumpet assistant. Ryan’s principal teachers were Keith Johnson and Dr. Gary Wurtz.

trumpet

SSG Aaron Ney

Danielson, CT

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2021

Alum: University of Texas at Austin / University of Miami

SSG Aaron Ney joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2021. Growing up in Danielson, Connecticut, he started playing piano and then switched to trumpet in the third grade. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Austin under the instruction of Ray Sasaki. He went on to pursue graduate studies with Craig Morris at the University of Miami, where he served as a teaching assistant and Henry Mancini Institute Fellow. During his time at UM, he attended the Aspen Music Festival, including one summer as the Aspen Conducting Academy Fellow. Prior to joining TUSAB, he was a trumpet fellow at the New World Symphony in Miami Beach, Florida under Michael Tilson Thomas. During that time, he was able to share the stage with conductors such as Miguel Harth-Bedoya, Carlos Miguel Prieto, Matthias Pintscher, and John Williams in addition to many soloists including Emanuel Ax, James Ehnes, Augustin Hadelich, Itzhak Perlman, Daniil Trifonov, and Yuja Wang. Other significant teachers throughout his studies include David Bilger, Michael Sachs, Barbara Butler, and Ray Mase.

trumpet

SSG Francis LaPorte

Holland, MI

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2023

Alum: McGill University / Rice University / Colburn School of Music

SSG Francis LaPorte has been a member of "Pershing's Own" since 2023. He has earned degrees from the Colburn School of Music, Rice University, and McGill University. He was principal trumpet of the Austin Symphony Orchestra during the 2021-2022 season while studying at Rice. Francis was a Music Academy of the West Fellow '17 '18 and '19, and a winner of the Music Academy of the West Keston-MAX 2018 exchange program. He has performed with the London Symphony Orchestra, the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, the Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra, and the Austin Symphony Orchestra. His principal teachers include Barbara Butler, Charlie Geyer, Jim Wilt, Jim Pandolfi, Paul Merkelo, and Richard Stoelzel.

trumpet

SSG Julia Gill

Plantation, FL

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2024

Alum: Florida State University / University of Colorado-Boulder

SSG Julia Gill is a native of Plantation, Florida, and joined the U.S Army “Pershing’s Own” Ceremonial Band in 2024. Gill earned her Bachelor’s of Music Education from the Florida State University in 2022, and went on to complete a Master’s degree in Trumpet Performance from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2024 prior to joining TUSAB. Throughout her career, Gill has performed in a variety of professional and semi-professional ensembles including symphony orchestras, wind ensembles, brass quintets, and trumpet ensembles. As a soloist, Gill is a three-time finalist of the National Trumpet Competition’s Military Excerpt Division, and has placed in the Graduate Solo Division. She is also a two-time finalist of the International Trumpet Guild Ryan Anthony Memorial Competition in the Wind Band Excerpts Division, winning first-prize in 2022. Her primary teachers include Mr. John Laing, Dr. Christopher Moore, and Dr. Ryan Gardner. Outside of playing the trumpet, Gill enjoys watching sports, reading books, listening to music, playing video games, and spending time with her family and friends.

french horn

SGM Rick Lee

Columbus, GA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 1999

Alum: University of Georgia / Yale University

SGM Tommy Richard Lee (“Rick”) entered the U.S. Army Band in 1999 after completing his B.M. at the University of Georgia; M.M. and Artist’s Diplomas from Yale University. A frequent performer in New York City, Rick played in numerous Broadway productions. He was chosen as principal horn for the Hofer Symphoniker in Hof, Germany, until his entry into Pershing’s Own. Lee plays horn in the U.S. Army Brass Quintet, giving performances at the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Pentagon and countless other venues throughout the National Capitol Region. The Brass Quintet has performed internationally in Moscow and St. Petersburg with the Russian National Orchestra and their own elite brass quintet and most recently provided musical support for the reopening of the U.S. Embassy in Havana, Cuba. Lee serves as Section Leader for the French horn section of the U.S. Army Ceremonial Band. Lee also performs regularly at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Washington National Cathedral, Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, the National Gallery of Art, and numerous other venues in the greater Washington area. He has performed musicals at the National Theater, Ford’s Theater, Arena Stage, and Signature Theater since his move to Washington. In addition, he frequently joins the Washington Concert Opera, Choral Arts Society of Washington, and countless other regional orchestras.

french horn

MSG Aaron Cockson

Foley, AL

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2001

Alum: Florida State University / Florida State University

MSG Aaron Cockson is a native of Foley, Alabama. After completing his undergraduate degree in music education at Florida State University in 1995, he taught elementary, middle, and high school music for several years before returning to FSU for his master's degree. He also found time between degrees to attend basic training and join the 151st Army Band in Montgomery, Alabama, where he served as principal horn. After completing his master's degree in horn performance, Cockson auditioned and won a position with The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" in 2001. In addition to being a member of the Ceremonial Band, he is the hornist in The U.S. Army Wind Quintet, and also serves as an Equal Opportunity Leader, a Voting Assistance Officer, and a Suicide Prevention team member.

french horn

SFC Shane Clare

McKinney, TX

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2007

Alum: University of Texas / U of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music

SFC Shane Clare has been a member of The U.S. Army Band "Pershing’s Own" since 2007. Originally from McKinney, Texas, he studied the horn under Wayne Barrington and Patrick Hughes at the University of Texas at Austin before attaining his graduate degree under Randy Gardner at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music.Clare has performed with several orchestras in Texas and Ohio, as well as at many large venues in the D.C. metro area. He also enjoys performing as a recitalist at Brucker Hall and has been featured as a soloist on the Capitol steps. He lives in northern Virginia with his wife and two children.

french horn

SFC Evan Geiger

Simi Valley, CA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2011

Alum: University of California Los Angeles / Manhattan School of Music / Manhattan School of Music

SFC Evan Geiger joined the "Pershing's Own" in 2011, the Pittsburgh Opera Orchestra as Principal horn in 2009 and also plays Principal with the Lyrica Chamber Orchestra, New York Chamber Virtuosi and the Artosphere Festival Orchestra. The 2010 holiday season marked his second year winning positions with the Radio City Christmas Spectacular in New York City. He also plays regularly around the New York area with Dicapo Opera, the New York Camerata, the Metro Chamber Orchestra, and the Riverside Symphonia, with which he won a section position in 2009. Many other reputed orchestras have sought his talents including the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Wheeling Symphony, Pacific Orchestra of the Americas, the International Contemporary Ensemble and the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra. While in New York, Geiger has premiered several contemporary works with the Tactus Contemporary Ensemble as well as the New York Chamber Virtuosi. A frequent Broadway musician, he has played on shows such as The Lion King, Shrek, The Little Mermaid, Wicked, and South Pacific to name a few. He holds a Masters degree from the Manhattan School of Music where he is also done doctoral work. Geiger has recorded several albums and soundtracks including Elevation by Patrick Williams, nominated for two Grammys.

french horn

SSG Claire Bradley

Cypress, TX

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2022

Alum: Eastman School of Music / University of North Texas

Hailing from Cypress, TX, SSG Claire Bradley joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2022. Before joining the band, Claire earned a Bachelor of Music in horn performance from the Eastman School of Music and a Master of Music in horn performance from the University of North Texas. Claire has worked as a freelance musician in Rochester, NY, and DFW metroplex, performing with groups such as the McKinney Philharmonic. While at the University of North Texas, Claire worked as a teaching assistant for chamber music studies and member of the Center Woodwind Quintet. Throughout her career, Claire has performed in a variety of ensembles ranging from standards such as wind ensemble, orchestra, and chamber groups to the more obscure such as baroque chamber music, jazz, and film recording orchestra. Claire has gone out of her way to explore the French horn in all forms both physically and stylistically by performing in several jazz groups, baroque chamber music on natural horn, and a chamber group on Wagner tuba.

french horn

SSG Emerson Miller

Silver Spring, MD

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2022

Alum: University of Maryland / University of Maryland

A native of Silver Spring, Maryland, Emerson Miller joined The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" in 2022 after completing the first year of his master’s degree at The University of Maryland where he is currently a member of the graduate fellowship brass quintet, “Terrapin Brass.” He also earned his bachelor’s degree in music performance from The University of Maryland where he studied with Philip Munds and Gregory Miller. He has attended The National Orchestral Institute + Festival and The Santiago de Querétaro Music Festival in Mexico. In his free time, Miller is an avid Washington sports fan and enjoys playing basketball and tennis. Miller is also a graduate of John F. Kennedy High School in Silver Spring.

trombone

MSG C. Dale Moore II

Anniston, AL

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2004

Alum: Florida State University / Florida State University / University of Minnesota

MSG Dale Moore, trombonist with The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band, joined The U.S. Army Band in 2004. Prior to his enlistment, Moore completed his BM and MM Degrees at The Florida State University and his DMA at The University of Minnesota. His past teachers include Teddy Arnold (bass trombonist with the Jazz Knights – USMA West Point Band), Dr. James Roberts (Jacksonville State University), Dr. John Drew (Florida State University), and Thomas Ashworth (University of Minnesota).Moore also performs with The U.S. Army Band Herald Trumpets, becoming a full time member in 2009. A variety of performance opportunities within the U.S. Army Band have taken him across the United States and Canada, ranging from The Atlantic Brass Quintet seminar in Sonoma, CA, to a U.S. Army Herald Trumpet performance celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway.

trombone

SFC Gregory Hammond

Fairport, NY

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2015

Alum: Eastman School of Music / Rice University

SFC Gregory Hammond joined The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" in November of 2015. He was born in Lancaster, PA, but grew up in Fairport, NY, where he started playing trombone at the age of 10. Hammond graduated from the Eastman School of Music with a bachelor’s degree in Music Education and Trombone Performance, including the Performers Certificate. After spending some time as a substitute music teacher in the Rochester, NY area, he moved to Houston, TX to pursue a master's degree in Trombone Performance at the Shepherd School of music at Rice University. While in Houston, Hammond worked as a teacher and freelance musician including several performances with the Houston Symphony Orchestra. He was also a member of the 2014 Disneyland All American College Band in Anaheim, CA. You can hear Hammond playing bass trombone on Colossus Big Band’s first album “Colossus”. His teachers include Allen Barnhill (Rice), Mark Kellogg and John Marcellus (Eastman School), and Larry Poole.

trombone

SFC Alfred Currey II

Grahamsville, NY

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2017

Alum: Ithaca College / University of Miami

SFC Hank Currey grew up in Grahamsville, NY, a very small town in the Catskill Mountains. He began his official musical training in 2005 at Ithaca College, majoring in Music Performance and Education. At Ithaca he placed in the 2008 International Trombone Association Quartet competition, played in the 50th tour of the American Wind Symphony Orchestra, and performed with many local orchestras. Also while at Ithaca he met his absolutely amazing wife, Lori Roy. In 2012 Hank completed his Master's Degree at the University of Miami (in Florida, not Ohio), and then moved to Reno, Nevada. Over the next 5 years he played with the Reno Philharmonic, Reno Chamber Orchestra, Reno Jazz Orchestra, Reno Opera Company, Toccata Symphony, and the Great Basin Brass Quintet, to name a few groups. He was also an Assistant Band Director at Depoali Middle School and was the Adjunct Professor of Trombone at the University of Nevada, Reno from 2014-2016. Aside from performing, Currey enjoys biking, disc golf, archery, riding motorcycles, and spending time with his amazing, one a kind, wonderful wife Lori Roy, who is a French Horn player in the United States Army Field Band.

trombone

SFC Katie Thigpen

Mt. Pleasant, SC

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2017

Alum: University of South Carolina / U of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music / U of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music

SSG Katie Thigpen, native of Mount Pleasant, SC, began playing trombone at age 10 and graduated from Wando High School. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of South Carolina and completed her Master's and Doctoral degrees at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music in performance. Prior to joining “Pershing’s Own”, Thigpen was working as an educator and freelancer in the Washington, D.C., area, teaching privately in several schools and local music organizations. An advocate of music education, she continues to maintain a private studio and has spent ten summers on staff and faculty at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Twin Lake, MI. Active as a performer, Thigpen has played with the National Philharmonic, Roanoke Symphony Orchestra, Lancaster Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, West Virginia Symphony, and York Symphony Orchestra. As a fellowship recipient she spent two summers at the Aspen Music Festival and School and in 2013 she won the Eastern Trombone Workshop National Solo Competition. Her primary teachers include Brad Edwards, Tim Anderson, Per Brevig, and Craig Mulcahy. Aside from music Thigpen enjoys baking, spending time outdoors, and cheering for the Carolina Gamecocks.

trombone

SSG Austin Westjohn

Conway, AR

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2018

Alum: Harding University / Baylor University

SSG Austin Westjohn joined The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2018. He is a graduate of Harding University (BME) and Baylor University (MM). SSG Westjohn is also the principal trombone of the Delaware Symphony, a position he has held since 2019. He has performed with several orchestras across the United States, including the National Symphony, Kennedy Center Opera Orchestra, National Philharmonic, Nashville Symphony, Harrisburg Symphony, and Arkansas Symphony, among others. As a member of The United States Army Band, “Pershing’s Own”, Austin has played for events of the highest international significance. Career highlights include the state funeral service for former President George H.W. Bush, the National Tree Lighting, PBS Broadcasts of “A Capitol Fourth”, with the U.S. Army Herald Trumpets on the White House Truman Balcony, the 2023 Veteran’s Day Parade in NYC, and in thousands of national ceremonies including full-honors funerals in Arlington National Cemetery. Versatile across many genres, he is a regular performer with the Army Blues, Concert Band, Army Brass Quintet, and has presented solo recitals and masterclasses across the United States. SSG Westjohn also serves as the coordinator for the American Trombone Workshop National Trombone Quartet Competition. Outside of performing or teaching music, he enjoys being involved with his church and in ministry, exploring and enjoying the nature of the national capital region, and spending time with his wife and their golden retriever, Tiger.

trombone

SSG Ethan Scholl

Owatonna, MN

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2018

Alum: Luther College

SSG Ethan Scholl joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in October of 2018. He was born in Fairmont, MN, but grew up in Owatonna, MN. In the spring of 2013, he graduated from Luther College in Decorah, IA with a bachelor’s degree in music. He then moved to Champaign, Illinois to pursue a master’s degree in performance and pedagogy from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, receiving his degree in the summer of 2016. He has also studied at the University of North Texas. His primary teachers include Steve Menard (University of North Texas), Elliot Chasanov (University of Illinois) and Michael K. Smith (Luther College).

trombone

SSG Kyle Price

Lexington, SC

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2019

Alum: New England Conservatory of Music

SSG Kyle Price, native of Lexington, SC, joined The U.S. Army Band in April of 2019. He spent his later two years of high school at the South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities where he studied trombone under Dr. David Hamilton. He then moved to Boston, MA where he spent his undergraduate years at the New England Conservatory studying with Toby Oft, Principal Trombone of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and also studying with James Markey, Steve Lange, and Norman Bolter of the BSO. It was there that he began participating in various competitions and festivals, as well as playing with the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra, and eventually winning his position with The U.S. Army Band. In his spare time Price enjoys working on new musical projects, biking and exercising, and woodworking, which led to the founding of his small business “Peck Custom Designs” where he creates trombone triggers, batons, and other woodturning projects.

trombone

SSG Michael Burner

Rogers, AR

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2020

Alum: University of Arkansas

SSG Michael Burner joined the United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in April 2020. A native of Rogers, AR, he was the 2010 Arkansas Governor’s Award for musical excellence winner, and studied at the University of Arkansas and the Mannes School of Music. Prior to his position with Pershing’s Own, Burner was a freelance musician in New York City, where he performed with the Metropolitan Opera, New England Symphonic Ensemble, and performances of Broadway and off Broadway musicals. He currently performs as a trombonist with the Chamber Orchestra of New York, with whom he has recorded several albums and commercials. A dedicated international educator, Burner’s students have been admitted to some of the finest schools, universities, and conservatories around the world, including the Juilliard School, Manhattan School of Music, Interlochen, and FH Laguardia High School. SSG Burner has performed solo and chamber music across the United States, notably at the Midwest Clinic. His teachers and mentors have included Weston Sprott, Demian Austin, Nicholas Schwartz, Gerald Sloan, Cory Mixdorf, and Douglas Blevins.

trombone

SSG Jonathan Kraft

Pearland, TX

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2021

Alum: Indiana University / Northwestern University

SSG Jonathan Kraft, originally from Pearland, TX, joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in March 2021. He completed his bachelor’s degree in Music Performance at Indiana University in May 2018. While at IU, Kraft was a participant at a handful of summer trombone seminars and workshops including the 2016 Southeast Trombone Symposium, where he was a finalist in the S.E. Shires Solo Competition. Kraft won the IU brass concerto competition and performed the Gordon Jacob Trombone Concerto with the IU Symphonic band in April 2018. After graduating from IU, Kraft went on to earn his master’s degree in Music Performance at Northwestern University in December 2020. Outside of his schooling, Kraft freelanced and subbed with multiple ensembles including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra on concerts at the Ravinia Festival and at the Symphony Center. In the summers of 2017 and 2019, he was a participant at the National Orchestral Institute Festival at The Clarice in College Park, Maryland. His past teachers include Michael Mulcahy, Douglas Wright, Timothy Higgins, Christopher Davis, Randall Hawes, Peter Ellefson and Brian Logan. Along with the trombone, Kraft enjoys disc golf, exploring nature, Houston sports, and spending time with his family.

trombone

SSG Conor Wilson

El Paso, TX

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2024

Alum: Baylor University

SSG Conor Wilson, a native of El Paso, TX, joined The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in August of 2024. He began his undergraduate studies at Baylor University in 2020, where he studied under Brent Phillips. While studying at Baylor, Wilson was the winner of the 2022 Southeast Trombone Symposium Orchestral Excerpts competition and a finalist in the solo competition, as well as a finalist in the 2022 International Trombone Association George Roberts solo competition and Edward Kleinhammer Orchestral bass trombone competition. In 2023, he was the winner of the Edward Kleinhammer Orchestral bass trombone competition. Outside of his duties with The “Pershing’s Own,” Wilson enjoys cooking, watching football, and is an avid gym-goer. His mentors and teachers include Brent Phillips, Steve Wilson, Barry Hearn, and Richard Harris.

euphonium

MSG Daniel Ord

Warner Robins, GA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2014

Alum: Columbus State University / University of North Texas

MSG Daniel Ord enlisted in the Army in 2007 and quickly was appointed to prestigious assignments within the band field. Within a year of joining, he was selected to be the euphonium instructor at the Armed Forces School of Music in Norfolk, VA, where he taught incoming Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines as they entered the service bands. He was then assigned to the United States Army Europe Band in Sembach, Germany where he served as the Team Leader and trombone player for the award-winning ensemble "Kaiser Brass." He became a member of the U.S. Army Ceremonial Band in 2014.Through his Army career, Ord has earned numerous awards including Distinguished Honor Graduate and the Distinguished Leadership Award at the Army Advanced Leader Course. He is also a two-time recipient of the Colonel Finley Hamilton award. Ord enjoys cycling, practicing, and spending time with his wife, son, and two pups.

euphonium

MSG Jeremy Mcbride

San Antonio, TX

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2013

Alum: Baylor University

In 2013, SFC Jeremy McBride, a native of San Antonio, Texas, fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a member of The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band. Prior to joining “Pershing’s Own,” McBride was an active freelance musician in the Dallas/Fort Worth area and a highly sought after private euphonium instructor. At any given time, his private studio held 70 talented middle school and high school euphonium students. As an ensemble performer, McBride performed regularly with notable organizations such as the Dallas Wind Symphony, the Lone Star Wind Orchestra, The Imperial Brass, the Texas Star Brass Band, and the Dallas Civic Wind Ensemble.Throughout his musical career, McBride has successfully competed in numerous major euphonium competitions. In 2005, he took first place in the Euphonium Artist Division of the International Leonard Falcone Euphonium Competition in Twin Lake, Michigan.

euphonium

SFC Christopher Buckley

Laredo, TX

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2011

Alum: West Texas A&M University / The University of North Texas / The University of North Texas

SFC Christopher Buckley is one of the newest members of the United States Army Band. He grew up in a large family on the South Texas border. While in Texas he competed in several international euphonium solo competitions, including the Leonard Falcone International Solo Competition where he won 1st place in 2009. While at the University of North Texas he played in many professional ensembles including the Dallas Wind Symphony, Lone Star Wind Ensemble, and the Dallas Civic Wind Ensemble. He also performs on tuba and trombone in many jazz ensembles. He lives in Arlington, Virginia, with his wife Leah where they are constantly searching for Mexican food as good as the food in Texas. They live with two crazy cats named Oscar and Battle Cat.

euphonium

SSG Irving Ray

Houston, TX

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2016

Alum: Sam Houston State University / University of North Texas

SSG Irving Ray grew up in a large musical family in Houston, TX. Five of his eight siblings chose to play euphonium, with exception to his youngest brother who chose trumpet. As a former member of the highly acclaimed North Texas Euphonium Quartet, Ray performed at some of the top colleges and conservatories across the United States. In addition, Ray is an internationally known soloist and teacher, having been invited each year to Singapore since 2013 with the Wind Bands Association of Singapore, performing as a guest soloist with the Monterrey Symphony Orchestra in Monterrey, Mexico, and serving as a guest soloist and brass lecturer with the Field Band Foundation in Durban, South Africa. Prior to joining “Pershing’s Own,” Ray was Dr. Brian Bowman’s teaching fellow at the University of North Texas and was Adjunct Professor of Tuba and Euphonium at Brookhaven College. Some of his greatest musical influences include Frank Troyka, Matthew McInturf, Rex Martin, Demondrae Thurman, and Dr. Brian Bowman.

tuba

MSG Jon Voth

Hutchinson, KS

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 1997

Alum: The Wichita State University / The University of New Mexico

MSG Jon Voth has been a member of The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" since1997. He plays in Concert Band and has been a member of The U.S. Army Brass Quintet since 2004. Voth married to a clarinetist in The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" and enjoys spending time with his three children.

tuba

MSG Sean Chisham

Lawson, MO

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2000

Alum: University of Kansas / Northwestern University

MSG Sean Chisham hails from the great state of Missouri where he grew up in the small farm community of Lawson. From his earliest days of taking up the tuba, one of his goals was to some day play in one of the premier service bands way off in Washington, D.C. He received his formal training from The University of Kansas where he studied with Scott Watson and from Northwestern University under the watchful ears of Rex Martin. Between his work at these two schools, he played with The American Wind Symphony Orchestra where he met his dear wife MU1 Farah Chisham who currently plays horn with The United States Navy Band. The couple moved to Bloomington, IN, to allow Farah to finish her degree. There Chisham began private studies with the great master Dan Perantoni. During this time of private studies he auditioned for and won a position with The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” where he has played in the Ceremonial Band since 2000. When not honoring the heroes of this nation through his music on the parade field or in Arlington National Cemetery, Chisham enjoys spending time with his wife and 2 sons or bicycle racing with a local amateur cycling team.

tuba

SFC Zachary Bridges

Rowlett, TX

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2016

Alum: Baylor University / Rice University

SFC Zach Bridges received his bachelor’s degree from Baylor University where he studied with Dr. Kent Eshelman. He received his master’s degree from Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music, where he studied with David Kirk, Principal Tuba of the Houston Symphony.Prior to joining “Pershing’s Own,” Bridges performed with the Houston Ballet, East Texas Symphony and the Waco Symphony, as well as the festival orchestras of Lake George, Brevard Music Center, National Music Festival, Texas Music Festival, and the Sewanee Music Festival.In addition, Bridges has performed in several solo competitions including the Artist Tuba solo competition at the 2014 International Tuba Euphonium Conference in Bloomington, Indiana, where he was a semi-finalist. He was also named winner of the 2011 Young Artist Tuba division at the International Leonard Falcone solo competition.In his free time, he enjoys swing dancing with his wife Rebekah and playing with their cat, Lafayette.

tuba

SSG Andrew Dougherty

Gainesville, VA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2020

Alum: George Mason University / University of Maryland

SSG Andrew Dougherty is a native of Gainesville, Virginia, and joined the tuba section of The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in December of 2020. He previously was a member of the West Point Band, which he joined in November of 2017. He holds a Bachelor of Music from George Mason University, where he studied under Andrew Hitz, and a Master of Music from the University of Maryland, where he studied under David Fedderly. Dougherty formerly played with Brass of the Potomac, the ITEA winning tuba and euphonium quartet, NOVATEQ, and other band, orchestral, and chamber ensembles around the Washington, D.C. area. As an educator, Dougherty has taught masterclasses at the Bard Conservatory of Music, Eastman School of Music, and at the Tanglewood Institute, while maintaining a private studio of dedicated students. Prior to joining the military music field, he was selected to perform as principal tuba with the Disney All-American College Band of 2014 in Anaheim, California, under the direction of Ron McCurdy. As a student, he won The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” Mock Band Audition, and was selected for the United States Air Force Band’s Collegiate Symposium.

tuba

SSG Marc Placencia

Glendale, AZ

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2022

Alum: Arizona State University

SSG Marc Placencia grew up in sunny Glendale, AZ, and won his position with The U.S. Army Band “Pershing's Own” in 2022. He received his bachelor's degree from Arizona State University where he studied with Sam Pilafian and Dr. Deanna Swoboda. His other primary mentors are international tuba soloist Patrick Sheridan and Los Angeles-based tubist Gabriel Sears. Prior to joining “Pershing's Own,” he served in the U.S. Navy Fleet Bands at Navy Band Northwest. Outside of the military, he has performed with the Seattle Symphony, Phoenix Symphony, Tucson Symphony, AZMusicFest Orchestra, West Valley Symphony and was selected to participate in the Disneyland All-American College Band in the summer of 2017. When not playing his tuba, he likes to spend time with his wife and his two amazing children.

tuba

SSG Brandon Benson

Missouri City, TX

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2022

Alum: University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music

SSG Brandon Benson, a native of Missouri City, TX, joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in October of 2022. Benson began studying music at the age of 11 with his mentor, Ali Jackson, and went on to study music performance at University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, under Timothy Northcut. Benson was selected to attend the Rafael Mendez Brass Institute in 2019, where he won the mock audition competition at the age of only 17. Furthering his ambition to become a professional musician, Benson was a finalist for 5 premier military band auditions, while only in his first two years of university study. As a music educator, he has taught lessons and masterclasses in his native Texas region, while actively pursuing educational pursuits in the DC metro area. Outside of music, Benson enjoys going to the movie theater, exercising, and playing video games with his friends.

percussion

MSG Sidonie Mccray

Melbourne, FL

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2013

Alum: Florida State University / Eastman School of Music

SFC Sidonie McCray holds a bachelor's degree in Music Performance from the Florida State University where she studied with Dr. John Parks IV. During her time at FSU she was also a member of the Big 8 drum line in the Marching Chiefs. McCray received her Master of Music degree in Performance and Literature and Performer‘s Certificate from the Eastman School of Music where she had the privilege of studying with Michael Burritt, John Beck, Bill Cahn, Chip Ross and Rich Thompson. She resides in northern Virginia with her husband and daughter and coaches CrossFit in her spare time.

percussion

SFC Michael Dillman

Canton, OH

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2020

Alum: Ohio State University / U of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music

SFC Mike Dillman holds a bachelor’s degree in Music Performance from Ohio State University, where he studied with Dr. Susan Powell and Joseph Krygier. Dillman earned his Master of Music degree in Percussion Performance from the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music. He studied at CCM under Percussive Arts Society Hall-of-Famers Rusty Burge, James Culley and Allen Otte. From 2015-2020, Dillman was a member of the US Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps. As an Army Musician SFC Dillman has performed for Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II and members of the British Royal Family; heads of state of Canada, Rome, China and others; US Presidents, Gold Star Families, and American citizens from Oregon to Florida, and Ottawa, Ontario to San Antonio, Texas.

percussion

SFC Donald Palmire

Montclair, VA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2013

Alum: Florida State University / Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary

SFC DJ Palmire began playing percussion in elementary school and grew up around the United States Army Band knowing one day that he wanted to one day be a member of the organization. Palmire holds a Bachelors degree in Music Performance from the Florida State University where he studied with Dr. John Parks IV. Palmire has also studied with Jay Brown, Mario Ramsey, Scott Pollard, and Matthew Strauss.Following his time at Florida State University, Palmire decided to join the United States Marine Corps as a musician and went through boot camp at Parris Island, SC. Upon graduation, Palmire completed Marine Combat Training at Camp Geiger, NC and was sent to the Naval School of Music in Little Creek, VA. Palmire then was given his first duty assignment to the Marine Forces Pacific Band stationed at Marine Corps Base Hawaii-Kaneohe Bay. While attached to the MarForPac Band, Palmire was a featured soloist with the MarForPac Concert Band as well as a guest soloist with the Hawaii Pacific University Symphonic Band.Palmire is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary and spends his time studying the Bible, running, teaching the drumline at Woodbridge High School, and conducting the orchestra at Grace Baptist Church (Woodbridge, VA).

percussion

SSG Brian Blume

Logansport, IN

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2020

Alum: Indiana University / Indiana University

As a performer, composer, and educator, SSG Brian Blume’s passion is to connect with audiences and students through the art of percussion. In 2020, Blume joined The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in Washington, DC. In his role with the Ceremonial Band, he serves his country through supporting high-profile ceremonies and events in the National Capital Region. Blume performs regularly as a soloist, chamber musician, orchestral player, and studio percussionist, and has performed with groups such as the Orlando Philharmonic, Imperial Symphony Orchestra, Terre Haute Symphony Orchestra, BluHill Percussion Duo, the Indianapolis Colts drumline, and Glassmen Drum and Bugle Corps. Blume served as assistant professor of percussion at Southeastern University (Lakeland, FL), where he founded the school’s first drumline, created a world music course, and established a percussion studio. He is a sought after adjudicator and clinician and has presented at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention, state PAS Day of Percussion events, and several universities and high schools around the country. His compositions for percussion are performed regularly across the country and abroad and are published by Tapspace Publications and drop6 media.

percussion

SSG Mike Glaze

Pensacola, FL

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2022

Alum: Florida State University / The University of Iowa

SSG Mike Glaze is a percussionist with The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" Ceremonial Band, doctoral candidate at Florida State University, and an active freelance musician and educator in the Washington D.C. area. With more than a decade of professional experience, he has held leadership positions in the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra, the Rome Symphony Orchestra, Carolina Crown Drum Corps, Kell High School, Holy Innocents' Episcopal School, and the Georgia Governor's Honors Program to name a few. As a performer, Glaze's diverse background allows him the ability to fit comfortably in any setting. He has performed with orchestras throughout the United States, toured the Midwest with the Pan American Steel Band, performed and recorded with multiple percussion ensembles, as well as embarked on repeated tours with Carolina Crown Drum Corps. His membership with North Star Percussion (an Atlanta based percussion trio) provides opportunity to play jazz vibraphone, and he is regularly called to play drum set for groups of many shapes, sizes, and instrumentations. In his free time, and as a self proclaimed coffee nerd, SSG Glaze likes to research, study, and experiment with craft coffee.

percussion

SSG William Kan

Cleveland, OH

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2022

Alum: Wright State University / University of Georgia

SSG William Kan, a native of Cleveland, Ohio, holds bachelor's and master's degrees in Percussion Performance from Wright State University and University of Georgia. SSG Kan studied with Mell Csicsila (Freelancer), Jerry Noble (Dayton Philharmonic), Tom Freer (Cleveland Orchestra), and Tim Adams (Pittsburgh Symphony). In addition, SSG Kan has received additional instruction from many notable performers/teachers such as Gwen Dease (Michigan State), Leo Soto (Houston Symphony), Matt Strauss (Houston Symphony/Rice University), Robert Van Sice (Yale/Peabody), Todd Meehan (Baylor University), and many others. Prior to joining “Pershing’s Own,” SSG Kan was an active freelancer and teacher, having played with orchestras such as the Buffalo Philharmonic, Canton Symphony, Augusta Symphony, Columbus Indiana Philharmonic, Terre Haute Symphony, Carmel Symphony, Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, Youngstown Symphony, Lansing Symphony and many more. In 2021, Kan began his Army career as a 42R, Army Musician, with the 1st Cavalry Division Band at Fort Hood, Texas. In his free time, he enjoys eating great food, watching sports, and spending quality time with his wife.

percussion

SSG Henry Eichman

Harrisburg, PA

Group: The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

Joined the Band: 2023

Alum: University of Minnesota Duluth / Michigan State University

SSG Henry Eichman is a native of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and joined the percussion section of “Pershing’s Own” Ceremonial Band in November of 2023. Prior to joining The U.S. Army Band, Eichman was Assistant Professor of Percussion at the University of Minnesota Duluth. Eichman has acted as both Principal Percussionist and Timpanist with the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra, and has performed with the Lyric Opera of the North, Minnesota Ballet, Northern Lights Music Festival, and in various jazz and latin music settings. Outside the concert hall, Eichman was a member of Hersheypark’s energetic “streetmosphere” ensembles The Chocolate Covered Band and The Cocoa Rhythm Factory, and entertained audiences around the east coast with found-sound percussion group, JUNK ROCK. He also performs regularly as a drummer with Catholic singer-songwriter Aly Aleigha at regional worship conferences, concerts, and other events. Eichman holds degrees from West Chester University (BM Music Education & Performance), the University of Minnesota Duluth (MM Performance), and Michigan State University (DMA Performance). His primary teachers include David Knott, Bob Novak, Ralph Sorrentino, Chris Hanning, Marc Jacoby, Gene Koshinski, and Gwendolyn Dease. Eichman resides in northern Virginia with his wife, and their two boys.