Wayne Gallops

Focus and Philosophy: Dr. R. Wayne Gallops approaches his work as a conductor, educator, and composer‑arranger with a philosophy centered on musical excellence, versatility, and experiential learning. His career reflects a commitment to helping musicians grow through high‑level performance opportunities, stylistic breadth, and disciplined artistic practice. Whether working with wind ensembles, orchestras, jazz ensembles, or chamber groups, he emphasizes musical integrity, professional preparation, and transformative ensemble experiences that develop both the artistic and human potential of his students.

Background: Dr. Gallops’ path into the arts was shaped by diverse musical and educational experiences beginning in Florida, where he developed as both a performer and educator. His academic journey includes degrees from The University of Tampa (B.A.), Florida State University (M.A.), and the University of South Florida (Ph.D.), each contributing to his extensive training as a conductor, performer, and scholar. His early teaching and performing career in Tampa cultivated his passion for music education, ensemble leadership, and the artistic rigor that has defined his professional life.

Teaching: As Director of Bands and Instrumental Music Education at Radford University since 2004, Dr. Gallops teaches across undergraduate and graduate levels in conducting and instrumental music education. He leads the University Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Wind Symphony, and Chamber Winds while also instructing courses in conducting and music education. Prior to his tenure at Radford, he taught at The University of Tampa, The University of South Florida, Hillsborough Community College, and in the Hillsborough County Public Schools, where his high school ensembles earned superior ratings, toured internationally, and performed at major festivals. His teaching emphasizes ensemble excellence, musical versatility, and preparing future music educators and performers for successful careers.

Research/Scholarship/Creative Work: Dr. Gallops maintains a distinguished record as a conductor, performer, clinician, adjudicator, and recording artist, having performed and recorded internationally with classical, jazz, commercial, and theatrical ensembles. His work includes collaborations with major orchestras, opera and ballet companies, and renowned artists such as Jennifer Holliday, Bernadette Peters, Julie Andrews, Tito Puente, Nat Adderly, and The Funk Brothers of Motown. His 2008 solo album Jazzicale received international acclaim, and his classical organ recordings have been featured on NPR’s Pipe Dreams and With Good Reason. He has conducted and performed throughout the United States, Canada, Ireland, and Japan and has presented clinics, lectures, and performances at major music conferences. His service includes the Virginia Music Educators Association Executive Board, grant review panels, and numerous professional honors and citations recognizing his contributions to wind music and music education.

For more information about Wayne Gallops, please open the tabs below. If you would like a digital copy of his complete CV, please contact him at rgallops@radford.edu.