Gretchen McNamara

Dr. Gretchen McNamara is the trombone instructor at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio, a position she has held since 2007. In addition to her responsibilities with the trombone studio, she also teaches Instrumental Music Education and supervises Field Placements. Dr. McNamara has presented clinics and performed at the Ohio Music Education Association State Conference. She has been a featured artist/clinician at the International Trombone Festival, Midwest Trombone and Euphonium Conference, Big 12 Trombone Conference, and artist in residence at the BrassChix Festival at the University of St. Thomas. She has served as the guest conductor of several OMEA District Honor Ensembles, and has also been a featured soloist with various Wright State University, community, and high school ensembles. Dr. McNamara also maintains a private trombone studio with students from the greater Dayton area. Dr. McNamara's pedagogical interests include efficiency of movement and sound production as well as mental focus of attention. She has explored various systems including Alexander Technique, Body Mapping, Functional Movement, Physical Therapy, and Mindfulness practices and is currently investigating how the discipline of physics can inform brass pedagogy and instruction.

A native of Seattle, Washington Dr. McNamara has earned a Doctor of Musical Arts Degree from the University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music, a Master of Music degree from Kent State University, and a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Washington. Before beginning the DMA, Dr. McNamara was the director of bands at Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts in Baltimore, Maryland.