Brass Area of Study

Introduction to Brass Study

Low brass dudes

The study of brass instruments at Wheaton College is informed by an artist faculty that excels at the highest level of performing, teaching, and scholarly achievement. Whether as a member or former member of world-class symphony orchestras and concert bands, high-level freelance players in the Chicago area, experienced teachers at the high school, college, university, and conservatory of music levels, Grammy-award winning recording artists, acclaimed authors, and frequent guest artists around the world, Wheaton College’s experienced brass faculty understands the goals of each student and works to craft an individual program for young musicians to excel.

The faculty’s commitment to modeling and mentoring ensures that students are both encouraged and challenged as they explore God’s calling for them to serve Christ's kingdom through their artistry. A commitment to established and successful pedagogical and performance techniques is combined with forward-looking innovation that brings students in contact with a wide range of tools and creative strategies that inform their study.

Brass Faculty

James Davis Headshot

James Davis

Guest Lecturer (Jazz Trumpet)
Ignacio del Rey, M.M. Headshot

Ignacio del Rey, M.M.

Guest Lecturer, Trombone
Donté Ford, Ph.D. Headshot

Donté Ford, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Music and Associate Chaplain for Worship Arts
Matthew Gaunt Headshot

Matthew Gaunt

Guest Lecturer, Tuba and Euphonium
Sara Petokas  Headshot

Sara Petokas

Guest Lecturer (Horn)
Mark Ridenour Headshot

Mark Ridenour

Guest Lecturer (trumpet)

Take a Lesson With a Wheaton Professor

Are you interested in exploring the Conservatory of Music further and getting to know a professor one-on-one? Prospective high school students are invited to request a trial lesson to try out the Wheaton studio experience.