Denis Colwell

Denis Colwell is an Associate Professor of Music at Carnegie Mellon University's School of Music, where he has served on the faculty since 1993. He was Head of the School from 2012 to 2022 and Assistant Head from 1988 to 1995. Colwell holds the Jack G. Buncher Chair since 2017. He has led the Carnegie Mellon Wind Ensemble as Music Director from 1993 to 2011 and the River City Brass Band from 1994 to 2009, performing over 1,400 concerts. A renowned brass musician, he was also the Assistant Principal Solo Cornetist and Associate Conductor of the River City Brass Band.

His educational background includes trumpet performance studies under Anthony L. Pasquarelli at Carnegie Mellon. Colwell founded and conducted both the Carnegie Mellon Youth Brass Band and River City Youth Brass Band, emphasizing music education and ensemble development. His recordings, such as the acclaimed 1996 Wind Ensemble album, have been praised in the American Record Guide.

Colwell's work spans professional ensemble direction, academic leadership, and youth music education, reflecting his dedication to brass music and institutional growth.