Biography

Dr. Birkner is Associate Professor of Music and Assistant Director of Bands at the University of Florida where he serves as Director of University Concert Bands, Associate Conductor of the Wind Symphony, Music Director of the New Music Ensemble, and Associate Director of the Gator Marching Band.  Additionally, he serves the UF School of Music teaching graduate and undergraduate courses in conducting, literature, and special projects.  Prior to his appointment at the University of Florida, Dr. Birkner taught middle school and high school band in the Texas public schools.

Dr. Birkner has appeared as conductor of honor bands, honor orchestras, professional bands, professional orchestras, and chamber ensembles across the United States, Europe, and South America.  As a clinician, Dr. Birkner has been invited to speak at national and international conferences including the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, Collegiate Band Directors Conferences, and numerous state music education conferences.  Additionally, Dr. Birkner served as Creator/Program Director/Instructor for the 2018 Vienna Summer Music Festival's Conducting Institute held in Vienna, Austria. 

Dr. Birkner received his PhD in Music Education/Instrumental Conducting, Master of Music in Percussion Performance, and Bachelor of Music Education with Performer’s Certificate from the University of Florida.  He holds professional memberships with the World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles, College Band Directors National Association, National Association for Music Education, Florida Music Educators Association, Florida Bandmasters Association, and Phi Mu Alpha Professional Music Fraternity.  Dr. Birkner is also proud to hold honorary memberships in Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma.