SGT James Van Zandt

SGT James Van Zandt serves as a trombonist in the 36th Infantry Division Band of the Texas Army National Guard, where he has proudly served since 2014. His military music career began in 1997 as a member of the United States Air Force Band in Washington, D.C., where he served on active duty until 2001.

In his civilian career, SGT Van Zandt is the Director of Orchestras at Texas A&M University and an accomplished trombonist and educator. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Trombone Performance from the University of Texas at Austin (2018), a Master of Music in Wind Conducting from the University of Michigan (2003), and a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from UT Austin (1997).

He previously served as Professor of Trombone and Director of Orchestras at Southwestern University (2018–2023). His performance experience includes roles as Principal Trombonist with the Central Texas Philharmonic (2012–2018) and trombonist with the San Antonio Opera (2007–2012).

A frequent soloist and clinician, SGT Van Zandt has led trombone masterclasses nationwide since 1997 and most recently performed as a soloist with the Texas A&M Wind Symphony during their 2024 tour of Spain.

A native of the Dallas–Fort Worth area and a former Texas All-State Orchestra trombonist (1988–1990), SGT Van Zandt is a proud graduate of Richland High School and continues to serve with distinction in both his military and civilian roles.