Brian Zator

Dr. Brian Zator serves as Regents Professor of Percussion at East Texas A&M University's School of Music within the College of Humanities, Social Sciences and Arts, where he has taught since 2001. His responsibilities include directing the percussion program and teaching applied percussion courses at all levels.

His academic credentials feature a DMA in Percussion Performance from the University of North Texas (2008), MM from the University of Michigan (2001), and BA in Music Education from Baylor University (1998), supplemented by studies with marimba virtuoso Keiko Abe in Japan.

Zator's research manifests through performance practice and creative output, specializing in marimba literature, percussion ensemble innovation, and contemporary chamber works. His international career spans seven PASIC conventions, Carnegie Hall appearances, and performances across five continents, emphasizing cross-cultural collaborations and new music advocacy.

His 2015 recordings 'Zamiki' and 'Zoomorphs' demonstrate expertise in solo marimba repertoire and interdisciplinary chamber works, reflecting trends toward expanding percussion literature through commissioning and cross-genre experimentation.

Major honors include:

• 2010 PAS International Percussion Ensemble Competition victory with ETAMU ensemble
• Texas A&M University System Regents Professorship (2023-24)

Through PAS leadership roles including Board Presidency and competition adjudication, Zator mentors emerging musicians while advancing percussion education. His 'Marimba Minute' social media series and 'Keyboard Fundamentals' pedagogical book extend his instructional impact beyond campus.

As principal artist for Innovative Percussion, Sabian, and Black Swamp, he maintains active performance partnerships while directing ETAMU's award-winning percussion program.