Todd J. Hastings, hailing from North Tonawanda, New York, holds the position of Professor of Trumpet at Pittsburg State University. Prior to his tenure there, he served as a visiting instructor at Texas A & M University in Kingsville, Texas. Dr. Hastings boasts an illustrious career as both a performer and clinician, excelling in both classical and commercial realms. His performance credits span a diverse array of ensembles, including the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, Louisville Orchestra, and Kansas City Symphony, as well as collaborations with renowned artists such as Aretha Franklin, Henry Mancini, and Doc Severinsen.

Notably, Todd served as soloist and principal trumpet with the Victoria Bach Festival Orchestra for over a decade and has graced prestigious festivals like Strings in the Mountains in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. His accolades include recognition at the National Trumpet Competition and being a finalist for the President's Own Marine Band in Washington, D.C.

In addition to his performance career, Todd is highly regarded as an educator, frequently appearing as a guest artist at brass and jazz festivals and conducting master classes across the United States. He founded the Midwest Trumpet Festival at Pittsburg State University, attracting esteemed guest artists and fostering a vibrant community of trumpet enthusiasts.

With degrees from SUNY Buffalo, The University of Kentucky, and The University of Texas at Austin, Todd's dedication to his craft extends beyond performance, with ongoing research and contributions to trumpet pedagogy. He was honored with induction into the North Tonawanda High School Arts and Sciences Wall of Fame and enjoys spending time with his two sons, Aiden and Daniel. Explore more about Dr. Hastings at toddjhastings.com.