Derek Fenstermacher

Derek Fenstermacher serves as Adjunct Professor of Tuba at Manhattan School of Music. He concurrently holds principal tuba positions with the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra (since 2011), Albany Symphony Orchestra, and previously with the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra (2018-2020) and Chattanooga Symphony and Opera Orchestra (2006-2014). His orchestral credits include performances with the New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, Cincinnati Symphony, and Mariinsky Theater Orchestra.

His educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Music from the University of Alabama under Demondrae Thurman and James Michael Dunn
• Master's degree from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music with Timothy Northcut
• Advanced studies at the University of Houston with Mark Barton (Performer's Certificate pursuit)

Mr. Fenstermacher's expertise spans tuba performance techniques, brass pedagogy, and orchestral interpretation. His artistic focus emphasizes contemporary brass repertoire development and chamber music collaboration, particularly through his work with the internationally renowned Sotto Voce Quartet which tours nationally for masterclasses and performances. As an educator, he integrates professional orchestral experience into studio teaching across multiple institutions.

He maintains an active performance schedule while serving on the faculties of Bard College’s Conservatory of Music (since 2012), Montclair State University, and Kean University. Mr. Fenstermacher is a Buffet Crampon Performing Artist performing exclusively on B&S tubas, with recent interim principal appointments including the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra (2021-2022 season).