derek ganong
A California native, Derek is highly regarded as both a jazz and classical trumpeter, and has developed a reputation for professionalism and excellence in all areas of music. Dr. Ganong holds a Doctorate of music in Jazz and Classical trumpet from the University of Miami, as well as a Master of Music in studio music from NYU, and a Bachelor of Arts in Ethnomusicology from UCLA.
As assistant professor of music at Boise State University, Derek teaches courses in music technology as well as leading the jazz/commercial music area, directing the Boise State Jazz Orchestra, running the Gene Harris Jazz Festival, teaching jazz techniques, jazz improvisation, and teaching applied trumpet. He co-leads a progressive trumpet studio and is on the forefront of trumpet pedagogy, and performance practice.
As a performer, Dr. G has extensive experience in both the symphonic and commercial realms. While a freelancer in South Florida, Derek was top call for any orchestral, chamber, jazz, commercial, and musical theater work. You name it and he has played it! Dr. Ganong has built his career around being able to seamlessly adapt to any and all styles and settings. He can be heard playing the trumpet in all styles, genres, registers, and disciplines across the country.
As a member of Vice City Brass and the FredBrass Institute, Derek is constantly seeking to push the boundaries of brass performance, chamber music, and pedagogy. Derek is the foremost authority on the trumpet method of the late Laurie Frink, and authored a wildly successful DMA essay covering her groundbreaking system. Derek is in high demand as both a teacher and a performer on film scores, game soundtracks, contemporary solo music, jazz, and everything in-between.
Dr. Ganong is committed to the multifaceted nature of the trumpet, and to the ever-broadening scope of professional music. His career goals include becoming part of a diverse faculty pool, as well as becoming a successful performer, soloist, and chamber musician.
Derek is a Conn-Selmer performing artist and performs exclusively on Bach trumpets.