bio

Rusty Banks, Guitar/Composer/Conductor

Rusty Banks (b. 1974) is a composer, guitarist and conductor from Jasper, AL, now residing in Pennsylvania.  As a composer he has been commissioned by performers and groups across the country, such as the Third Chair Chamber Players (a group he went on to conduct afterwards), the Nebraska Wesleyan University Wind Ensemble, the Alabama Music Teacher's Association and the New Music Agency to name a few.  He may be heard on Living Artist Recordings as well as his website (rustybanks.org).  

As a guitarist he is an often called upon interpreter of new music, as well as a prolific chamber musician. He has also been a soloist with the Third Chair Chamber Players and guitarist for Lincoln Symphony's presentation of Vivaldi's Ring of Mystery.

 As a conductor he has directed the Third Chair Chamber Players on very new works, as well as classic modernist pieces such as Varese's Octandre, and Stravinsky's Octet.  He has also been guest-conductor of the Nebraska Wesleyan University Wind Ensemble, and served as the Interim Director of Jazz Ensemble at Doane College.  

Rusty Banks also speaks to the community on behalf of the progressive arts through public radio, educational outreach programs and roundtable discussions.  Recent accomplishments include moving to Mountville, PA where he plans to compose much more...and flyfish.

(see also) resume