Andrew Classen

Biography

Andrew Classen is Professor of Trumpet & Jazz Studies at Drake University. He is currently principal trumpet with the Orchestra Iowa. He has played with numerous Broadway shows including: Wicked, Spamalot, Book of Mormon, Hairspray, Annie, Little Shop of Horrors, The Producers, Chicago (solo trumpet), The Full Monty, 42^nd Street, and Thoroughly Modern Millie.

He is in much demand as a clinician/guest artist for recitals, masterclasses and seminars, regionally, nationally and internationally. He has perform in China, Mexico, England and much of continental Europe. His classical trumpet album, It’s About Time, is available through Amazon or the iTunes store.

He is the leader of the Turner Center Jazz Orchestra, which just released their first album, Class ‘n Jazz: The Music of Andy Classen.  

His is also and active jazz composer. He currently has six compositions published through C.L. Barnhouse Publishing.

Mr. Classen was drill designer and music writer for Minnesota Brass Drum Corps, and marching bands from all around the country.

His principal trumpet teachers were Vincent Cichowicz of Northwestern University, William Adam of Indiana University, Robert Baca at UW Eau Claire and Cathy Leach at University of Tennessee.

Andrew Classen became the inaugural holder of the Fred and Patty Turner Professorship in Jazz, thanks to a $1 million gift from Drake alumnus Fred Turner. Mr. Turner noted, "I am delighted to have the opportunity to support the future generations of musicians who will keep this art form alive. Creating a jazz professorship at my alma mater is a perfect fit. This is my own way of making sure the music plays on."

He received a Bachelor in Music Education degree from the University of Wisconsin Eau-Claire and a Master of Music degree in trumpet performance from the University of Tennessee.