About Mr. Joshua Buckrucker:

“I have been a Professor of Music and Director of Navarro College Bands since 2014. I also serve as the chair of the Music Department. I received my Master’s degree in Music Performance with a concentration in Instrumental Conducting from Washington State University, and my undergraduate degree from Methodist University in both Music Performance (Saxophone) and Music Education. I regularly am used as a clinician and adjudicator throughout the United States. I have directed numerous collegiate bands and have been a guest conductor for multiple performing ensembles within national conferences. I have been a guest conductor and/or performer in collegiate and professional venues including Benaroya Hall, the Myerson Symphony Center, and much more. I have also served as a member of the Fayetteville Jazz Orchestra, the Fayetteville Symphonic band, The United States Army Forceomm Band, and the Corsicana Swing Orchestra. I am originally from Abilene Texas so when I heard there was a position open at Navarro, it gave me a great avenue to return back home to Texas with my family. I now live in Corsicana, TX with my wife Jessica and our daughter, Isabella.

Every day, I am amazed by the students of Navarro College, especially the band students. These students are the most kind, loving, generous individuals I’ve ever had the privilege of knowing, and I can’t say enough about their overall character. I believe my favorite memory would be introducing Beauregard VI (our previous mascot) to my 2-year-old daughter. She was given a stuffed bulldog (that looked like Beau) and she was so excited to meet the real mascot! Once she walked up to him, Beau immediately took the stuffed animal, and took off running! The look on my daughter’s face was priceless! Love that dog!”

 

Accolades:

• Has been recognized as a featured artist in multiple venues

• Semper Fidelis Award for Music Excellence (at the age of 17)

• Willis C. Gates Award for Music Excellence (at the age of 18)

• Guest artist with 2016 IMEA Jazz Entertainer of the Year Award winner, Mr. Aaron Myers,

• Featured guest conductor for the Dallas Winds Summer Music Program

• Has served in organizations such as North Carolina Music Education Association, Washington Music Education Association, Texas Community College Band Directors Association, Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, Music Educators National Conference, National Association for Music Education, College Band Directors National Association, Phi Mu Alpha, and North American Saxophone Alliance

 

Favorite quote:

“All Commit, No Quit” (Navarro College Band Motto)