Dr. James Van Zandt

Dr. James Van Zandt serves as Director of Orchestras at Texas A&M University, where he conducts the university’s orchestral ensembles and teaches within the Department of Music Activities. A conductor, trombonist, and educator, he has maintained an active career spanning collegiate teaching, professional performance, and military music.

Prior to joining Texas A&M, Dr. Van Zandt served as Professor of Trombone and Director of Orchestras at Southwestern University from 2018 to 2023. His professional performing experience includes service as Principal Trombonist of the Central Texas Philharmonic, trombonist with the San Antonio Opera, and trombonist in The United States Air Force Band in Washington, D.C. He currently serves with the 36th Infantry Division Band of the Texas Army National Guard holding the rank of SSG, where his duties have included performing, conducting, and ensemble leadership.

An active soloist and clinician, Dr. Van Zandt has presented trombone masterclasses and clinics throughout his career. He has appeared as a featured soloist with the Texas A&M Wind Symphony on international tours to Spain in 2024 and Ireland in 2026.

Dr. Van Zandt earned the Doctor of Musical Arts in Trombone Performance from The University of Texas at Austin, the Master of Music in Wind Conducting from the University of Michigan, and the Bachelor of Music in Music Education from The University of Texas at Austin. A native of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, he is a graduate of Richland High School.