Brian Bettger

Brian Bettger

Brian Bettger is well into his fifth decade as a professional musician, educator, writer and clinician. He graduated summa cum laude from the University of Northern Colorado with Bachelor degrees in Trumpet Performance and Music Education. He received his Masters degree in Instrumental Conducting from California State University, Fullerton and his Administrative Services Credential from California State University, San Bernardino.

Mr. Bettger has taught music at all levels from elementary school through post-graduate studies: including public and private schools, Riverside City College (CA), and directing the Jazz Studies Programs at both Chaffey College (CA) from 1980-1984 and California State University, Fullerton from 1986-1994. He began his administrative career in 2001, serving as both a school principal and district director before retiring and moving to Texas in 2021.

A published author and composer, Mr. Bettger has written and arranged more than 300 works for professional, military, school and community ensembles. He has served as staff arranger for the Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards Gala since 2011. He collaborated with film and TV composer Neil Argo to arrange and orchestrate Neil’s themes from the popular nature show Wild America for an IMAX tribute film. Brian’s arrangements have been recorded by such artists as Michel Bell, Colin Salter, Madeline Vergari and Johnny ’Doc’ Anello.

As a trumpet player, Brian has worked extensively for the Walt Disney Corporation, Pasadena Tournament of Roses, Palm Springs International Film Festival, Riverside Civic Light Opera, R & B Swing Machine, the Harry James Tribute Band, the West Coast Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey Orchestras and freelance shows/events throughout southern California. He is currently leading his own group Texas Cool and working freelance in the Austin/San Antonio (TX) area.

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