Dr. Gary Schallert is an Associate Professor of Music and Director of Bands at Western Kentucky University. Dr. Schallert's responsibilities at WKU include conducting the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, teaching graduate and undergraduate courses in conducting and music education, and supervision of student teachers.
Dr. Schallert earned his Bachelor of Music Education and Master of Music degrees from New Mexico State University, and Doctor of Arts degree in Wind Conducting from the University of Northern Colorado. Prior to this appointment at WKU, Dr. Schallert served as Associate Professor of Music and Wind Ensemble Conductor at Belmont University and as Associate Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music at the University of Missouri and the University of Tennessee. Dr. Schallert has also taught at several fine high schools including John Overton High School in Nashville, Tennessee and Manzano High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Dr. Schallert maintains an active schedule as guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator throughout the United States. He has conducted touring ensembles in Europe and Australia, including a performance with the University of Missouri Wind Ensemble at the famed Sydney Opera House. His professional affiliations include the College Band Director's National Association, Music Educators National Conference, Kentucky Music Educators Association, Middle Tennessee Band and Orchestra Association, and the World Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles. He is member of Phi Beta Mu, Phi Mu Alpha, and is an honorary member of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma. He and his wife, Amy reside in Bowling Green and have three sons; Ryan, Casey and Evan.