Evan Conroy
Doctorate of Musical Arts (Trombone Performance)
Indiana University (2018)
Master of Music (Trombone Performance)
Louisiana State University (2015)
Bachelor of Music (Trombone Performance)
Western Michigan University (2009)
Additional studies at The Juilliard School (2009-10)
Why did you choose to attend WMU?
Originally I chose Western Michigan University as an undecided major, knowing very little about the music program. After my freshman year I decided to audition for the trombone studio and, after taking a few lessons with Dr. Wolfinbarger, I realized a career in music was really what I wanted to do. Since then I've appreciated Dr. Wolfinbarger's devotion to his students and to teaching, and I've come to realized that I made the right decision. His door was always open and he was always willing to help in whatever way he could.
What do you consider to be your most important professional achievements to date?
Lately I've been doing relatively well in orchestral auditions. I recently won the audition to become the new bass trombonist of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, based in New Orleans. I was also chosen as one of three finalists for both the Milwaukee Symphony and the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra. I plan to continue taking auditions and trying to improve my craft!
What is your fondest memory of your time in the trombone studio (or music program) at WMU?
A few of my favorite memories during my five years at Western definitely include the Symphonic Band trip to China in 2006 and the numerous trips that the trombone studio took to hear either the Chicago or Detroit Symphony Orchestras. I always loved driving with Dr. Wolfinbarger, especially when he gets speeding tickets (editor's note: I only got ONE!).
General information
Evan Conroy is currently the bass trombonist with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, a position he has held since 2011. He is an in demand orchestral artist, performing with the Alabama Symphony, the Jacksonville Symphony, the Grand Rapids Symphony, and the Lucerne Festival Academy. As a soloist, Evan has had success in competitions winning the United States Army Band's National Bass Trombone Solo Competition, Division II in 2008. He was a runner up for that same competition in 2007. He was also a finalist for the prestigious International Trombone Association's Donald Yaxley Bass Trombone Competition. Evan has participated in music festival around the world, including the Lucerne Festival, the International Festival at Round Top, and the Bayview Music Festival. After receiving his B.M. degree at Western in 2009 he was the only bass trombonist admitted into the studio of New York Philharmonic bass trombonist Jim Markey at The Juilliard School. In addition to Professor Wolfinbarger and James Markey, he has had additional studies with Grand Rapids Symphony trombonist Dan Mattson and Detroit Symphony Orchestra bass trombonist Randy Hawes.