Brian Thacker is Professional Assistant Professor of Audio Technology at Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi. He has presented at both national and state music and teacher education conferences in the areas of technology instruction and trombone performance and pedagogical techniques. He has represented MakeMusic demonstrating both SmartMusic and Finale at various state conferences and at the International Trombone Festival. Dr. Thacker has performed as member of the New Mexico, North Carolina, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Jackson (TN), and Paducah Symphony Orchestras, the UNCG Trombone Ensemble—a featured ensemble at the 30th Annual International Trombone Festival in May 2001—and several jazz, rock, and ska bands. He holds the BM from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, the MM from the University of New Mexico and the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in trombone performance from UNCG.