Roger Behrend

This post is part of a series called Know This Brass Player which features significant brass players from all over the world.

Name: Roger Behrend

Instrument: Euphonium

Location: USA

Significance: Roger Behrend began his musical studies at Robinson High School in Fairfax, Virginia. He studied with the legendary Leonard Falcone at Michigan State University, and then went on to perform in the U.S. Coast Guard. After a brief stint with the Coast Guard, Behrend went on become a soloist and Principal Euphonium with the U.S. Navy Band. While in the Navy Band, Behrend performed as a soloist on multiple tours throughout the U.S. as well as Europe and Japan.

He received a Master of Music degree in Performance at George Mason University and later was their Professor of Tuba and Euphonium. Upon his retirement in August of 2009, Behrend had served his country by giving 30 years of military service. He is the second member in a line of Behrends who have served the military through music. His father served 22 years with the U.S. Army Band and his son, Bobby, is a current member of the U.S. Navy Band.

As an advocate for the euphonium, Behrend has commissioned and premiered over 25 compositions written for the instrument. He has recorded numerous albums and currently maintains a private studio in Fairfax, Virginia.

Sources consulted for this article:
Leonard Falcone International Tuba and Euphonium Festival
Dynasty
Robert Behrend – Euphonium