Faculty Bio

Dr. Larry Griffin

Emeritus Professor of Performing Arts

Education

  • B.M.E., Virginia State University
  • D.M.A., M.M., University of Minnesota

About

Larry Griffin began studying trumpet under Paul Taylor, principal trumpet of the National Symphony Orchestra in Norfolk, Virginia. Griffin also studied trumpet performance with Charles Schlueter, principal trumpet of the Boston Symphony; Manny Laureano, principal trumpet of the Minnesota Orchestra; David Baldwin, professor of trumpet at the University of Minnesota and jazz trumpet with Thad Jones. Griffin was a professor of music. In addition to conducting the Symphonic Wind Ensemble (1986-2018), Brass Choir, Trumpet Ensemble, and Jazz combos, Griffin had an outstanding trumpet studio and taught Instrumental Conducting. Griffin has toured extensively as a soloist and clinician, including two solo China and three solo Switzerland tours. Griffin continues to teach and perform at the International Music Camp in Manitoba, Canada (1990–2019). In addition, Griffin is an active guest conductor throughout the United States, Canada, Australia, Europe, and China. Griffin is a freelance musician, clinician, and education specialist for the Conn/Selmer Instrument Company Inc., performing on Selmer, and Vintage One Trumpets. Griffin has performed with the Newark-Granville Symphony Orchestra as the principal trumpet - endowed chair, Central Ohio Symphony Orchestra, Columbus Symphony Orchestra, ProMusica Chamber Orchestra of Columbus, the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, Aretha Franklin's final public performance in New York on 7 November 2017 at a gala celebrating the 25th anniversary of Elton John's AIDS foundation, the Four Tops, (2018 Carnegie Hall performances with Hezekiah Walker, BeBe Winans, Shirley Caesar, Azi Schwartz, Kenny Lattimore, and Ray Chew). Aside from performing, Griffin maintains a private studio. He enjoys helping young trumpet players develop their talents and explore creativity through music. Griffin strives to provide students with an exciting environment to learn the fundamentals of music performance.

In the News

Recipient of the 2015-2017 Libuse L. Reed Endowed Professorship