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 his role as the Overture Band Director and Prelude Assistant Conductor, Mr. Varga teaches middle school band at Dickson Preparatory STEAM Academy in the Woodland Hills School District and works with the Woodland Hills Marching Band and Images Visual Ensemble as the Assistant Director.

 

In addition to his large ensemble experience, Mr. Varga founded and conducted a chamber ensemble composed of dedicated undergraduate students seeking chamber ensemble playing opportunities at Oklahoma State University. Outside of academia Mr. Varga plays with the East Winds Symphonic Band, is an avid rock climber, and enjoys visiting his local public library.