A passionate educator and conductor, Kevin Varga loves leading students in discovering their personal connection with and love for music. After receiving his degree in music education from Syracuse University, Mr. Varga continued his education at Oklahoma State University where he received his master’s degree in Wind Conducting and served as a graduate assistant with the university bands. While at Syracuse University, Mr. Varga studied trumpet with John Raschella, the principal trumpet of Symphoria and former principal of the Pittsburgh Symphony and Syracuse Symphony Orchestras. During the course of his studies at Syracuse University, Mr. Varga also had the opportunity to study for a semester at the Conservatoire de Strasbourg in Strasbourg, France. At Oklahoma State University, Mr. Varga studied conducting with Dr. Joseph Missal whose ensembles have been showcased across the world including performances at the Japan Band Clinic, British Association for Symphonic Band, World Association for Symphonic Bands in Austria, and the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic. 

Mr. Varga’s experience as an educator covers a wide range from kindergarten through the university level while his versatility as a conductor has aided him in leading performances with chamber and large ensembles. Through his graduate teaching assistantship at Oklahoma State University, Mr. Varga served as a guest conductor for the Symphonic and Concert Bands. Mr. Varga also designed and wrote a complete show, drill and music, for the 350-member Cowboy Marching Band.  In addition to the university ensembles, Mr. Varga founded and conducted a chamber ensemble composed of dedicated undergraduate students seeking chamber ensemble playing opportunities. Outside of academia Mr. Varga has worked with and conducted the Liverpool High School Marching Band located in Liverpool, NY and the Skaneateles Community Band.

In addition to his role as the Philharmonic Assistant Conductor, Mr. Varga teaches middle school band at Dickson Preparatory STEAM Academy and works with the Woodland Hills Marching Band and Images Visual Ensemble as the Brass Caption Head. Mr. Varga is excited to make music with the talented students of the Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic Orchestra during the 2021-2022 season!