�ٰ�.��Micah��ǲ� named Assistant Professor of Trumpet and Brass Coordinator

kernh — Tue, 27 May 2025 14:46:45 +0000

The John J. Cali School of Music is proud to announce the appointment of �ٰ�.��Micah��ǲ� as Assistant Professor of Trumpet and Brass Coordinator.

A dynamic artist and educator, Dr. Killion brings to ��vlog a wealth of experience as a performer, scholar, and leader in music education. In his new role, he will oversee the brass area at the Cali School, guiding its artistic vision, coordinating faculty and student initiatives, and shaping the next generation of brass musicians.

Dr. Killion served as Principal Trumpet of the United States Air Force Band in Washington, D.C. from 2013 to 2018, where he recorded seven albums and performed as a soloist on John Mackey’s Antique Violences featured on the 2018 release Illuminations. His extensive recording credits include Du Yun’s Pulitzer Prize-winning opera Angel’s Bone and the Grammy-nominated trumpet ensemble piece Air Glow.

He has performed and recorded with a broad range of ensembles and artists, including The Knights Orchestra, Sigur Rós, Diana Ross, Shakira, The American Brass Quintet, NOVUS NY, the Colorado Symphony, and numerous Broadway productions. His versatility across genres and formats positions him as an exceptional leader for the brass area.

Dr. Killion has given workshops and master classes at premier institutions around the world, including The Juilliard School, Eastman School of Music, The Colburn School, Royal Academy of Music, and University of Oregon. His global impact includes educational collaborations with the Ramallah Orchestra in the West Bank and a brass instruction project in Kathmandu, Nepal, supported by a Rainwater Grant for American Music.

Most recently, Dr. Killion served as coordinator of the Musical Lives Initiative at the Center for Music Learning at the University of Texas at Austin. His research focuses on cognitive and perceptual-motor processes in music learning, including eye-tracking studies and expert practice analysis. He holds a PhD in Music and Human Learning from UT Austin, an MA in Music Education from Teachers College at Columbia University, and a BM in Trumpet Performance from The Juilliard School, where he studied under Philip Smith.

A Yamaha Performing Artist and Clinician, Dr. Killion brings a unique blend of performance excellence, scholarly insight, and leadership to his new role.

Please join us in welcoming �ٰ�.��Micah��ǲ� to the John J. Cali School of Music. We are thrilled to have him lead our brass area and contribute his vision, artistry, and mentorship to our community.

Dr. Marla Meissner

kernh — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 15:09:01 +0000

At the John J. Cali School of Music, we take pride in spotlighting the exceptional faculty whose dedication, artistry, and mentorship shape the heart of our community. These individuals bring a wealth of experience and inspiration to our students, both inside and outside the classroom.

One such faculty member is Dr. Marla Meissner, an adjunct professor of Theory and Composition whose contributions span far beyond her teaching. With degrees from Ithaca College (B.A.), ��vlog (M.A.), and New York University (Ph.D.), Dr. Meissner brings a deep and diverse knowledge of music theory, electronic and acoustic composition, and analysis to the Cali School.

For many students, she is their first point of contact—leading orientation sessions and teaching the Freshman Seminar for Music Majors. Her approachable presence and commitment to student success lay a strong foundation for their journey through the program.

In addition to her academic role, Dr. Meissner serves as the Cali School of Music’s Recruitment Coordinator. In this capacity, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of our student body. From organizing and leading visit days to meeting individually with prospective students and their families, she ensures that every visitor receives a warm welcome and an authentic introduction to life at Cali. Her work helps prospective students see themselves as part of our vibrant community before they even submit an application.

Dr. Meissner’s creative output is as dynamic as her teaching. Her 1999 release, Selections from the Kaleidoscope, showcases her skill in music production and her stylistic range. Her compositions—spanning electronic, acoustic, and traditional styles—have been performed in renowned venues such as New York City’s Angelika Film Center and Carnegie’s Weill Recital Hall.

With her multifaceted expertise and unwavering dedication, Dr. Marla Meissner continues to be a vital part of the Cali School’s mission and community.

We look forward to continuing our Faculty Spotlight series as a way to celebrate the talented educators who bring their knowledge, creativity, and dedication to the Cali School of Music. Check back here for more features highlighting the individuals who help shape our vibrant musical community.

Cali Faculty Spotlight – John J. Cali School of Music

�ٰ�.��Micah�������������ǲ� named Assistant Professor of Trumpet and Brass Coordinator

Dr. Marla Meissner

�ٰ�.��Micah��ǲ� named Assistant Professor of Trumpet and Brass Coordinator