The Wilbert & Ellen Hackman Ziegler Chair

Brian Buerkle currently serves as Principal Trumpet of the Kentucky Symphony Orchestra and the Sinfonia Gulf Coast. As an active freelance musician, Brian has traveled the world performing and recording with some of America's finest orchestras; including the Pittsburgh Symphony, Detroit Symphony, Cincinnati Symphony and Pops, Columbus Symphony, Colorado Symphony, Seattle Symphony, Grand Rapids Symphony, Indianapolis Symphony, and Louisville Orchestra.

He is also a member of several innovative chamber ensembles, including the Spectrum Brass, Canterbury Brass, Sinfonia Chamber Brass, and the Pittsburgh Brass. Brian is currently an Artist-in-Residence at the Bay View Music Festival and is a former faculty member of the prestigious Boston University Tanglewood Institute. 

Brian is also an accomplished conductor and arranger. His publications have been performed and recorded by groups worldwide. Brian received a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Performance from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music and a Master’s Degree in Music Performance from Duquesne University. He is a music critic for the American Record Guide, and the Owner/President of the Southern Ohio Music Company. Brian resides in Cincinnati, OH, where he enjoys an active and diverse musical career.

Will and Ellen have enjoyed the Kentucky Symphony for many years. “We appreciate the wonderful music, friendly and informative atmosphere and a place to see many local friends and acquaintances.”