Gary Poffenbarger, M.A.
Assistant Professor of Practice, Tuba and Euphonium, Music
Contact
Bio
Gary Poffenbarger, a distinguished music educator and performer, joined the faculty at The University of Texas at San Antonio School of Music in Fall 2017. Specializing in tuba and euphonium, he imparts his extensive knowledge and experience to music majors, conducts insightful weekly masterclasses, and directs the UTSA Tuba/Euphonium Ensemble, The Boom Squad.
Mr. Poffenbarger has had the privilege of being mentored by a host of eminent musicians, including Sam Pilafian, William Holmes, Wesley Branstein, Warren Deck, Gary Ofenloch, Ronald Romm, Roger Voisin, Timothy Morrison, David Ohanian, William Pfund, Allan Dean, and Arnold Jacobs.
Gary has enriched renowned ensembles such as The Boston Brass, Epic Brass, and The Boston Tuba Quartet with his musical prowess. He distinguished himself as the principal tubist with The United States Air Force Academy Band and excelled as the group leader/music director of The Stellar Brass, an ensemble that has been featured at esteemed events like The Midwest Clinic, Texas Music Educators Association Convention, and the International Trumpet Guild Conference.
While at the Academy, Gary was a pivotal member of the arranging staff, creating over 150 arrangements while also instructing the music notation software Finale for the Air Force. His leadership extended to his role as Chief of the Band Support Division for The Air Force Public Affairs Association, where he spearheaded initiatives in music composition, arranging, licensing, and social media management for all Air Force Bands and Public Affairs.
With a portfolio comprising over 32 video and audio recording projects, Gary has showcased his live performances to a global audience exceeding 50 million. He has made over 40 television appearances on networks such as PBS, Fox and Friends, and The Armed Forces Network.
Before joining UTSA, Gary served as Adjunct Professor of Tuba and Euphonium at Colorado State University-Pueblo and was a respected faculty member at The Rafael Mendez Brass Institute. He also contributed his leadership and expertise as the Director of Bands at Louise ISD.
Currently, Gary Poffenbarger collaborates as an artist/clinician with the Eastman Music Company. For more information, please visit [Eastman Music Company - Gary Poffenbarger](https://www.eastmanwinds.com/gary_poffenbarger).
Gary’s commitment to music education and his passion for performance continue to inspire students and audiences alike, fostering a deep appreciation for music and cultivating the next generation of musicians.
Teaching
Courses:
- Tuba and Euphonium Instruction
- Low Brass Performance Literature
- Tuba/Euphonium Ensemble
Degrees
- M.M. in Performance, Boston University (1988)
- B.M. in Education, Arkansas State University (1986)
