Dr. John Mcguire stands out as a highly accomplished horn player and dedicated educator, recognized for his extensive performance career and impactful teaching. His journey encompasses performances with numerous prestigious orchestras across the United States, showcasing his versatility and mastery of the horn. Notably, he has performed with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, the Dallas Opera, and the Fort Worth Symphony, among others. His orchestral experience also extends to the New World Symphony in Miami, Florida, the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, and the Illinois Symphony Orchestra, demonstrating a broad range of engagements with leading musical ensembles.
Beyond his orchestral work, John McGuire is a founding member of the acclaimed Fortress Brass Quintet, with whom he has toured internationally, further solidifying his reputation on a global stage. This international exposure highlights his collaborative spirit and ability to excel in chamber music settings as well.
As a celebrated soloist, John McGuire has garnered significant accolades. He was honored as a “Yamaha Young Artist,” a prestigious title recognizing emerging talent. Furthermore, he achieved finalist status in the American Horn Competition (now the International Horn Competition of America), underscoring his exceptional solo capabilities. His solo career also includes winning several regional competitions and numerous guest artist appearances at workshops, festivals, and institutions spanning the United States, United Kingdom, France, Brazil, Russia, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, and Japan. This extensive international presence as a soloist speaks to his global recognition and influence in the horn world.
Dr. McGuire is deeply committed to expanding the repertoire for solo horn. He is a passionate advocate for new music and has premiered numerous works, establishing himself as a sought-after performer of contemporary horn literature. This dedication to innovation culminated in the 2020 release of his debut solo album, Lines at Dusk, on the Navona Records label. Lines at Dusk, showcasing his artistry and modern approach, is readily available on all major streaming platforms.
In academia, John McGuire serves as the associate professor of horn at Colorado State University, a position he has held since 2012. At CSU, he imparts his expertise through applied horn instruction, chamber music coaching, and frequent solo and chamber performances. Prior to his tenure at CSU, he held adjunct instructor positions at the University of Alabama, Mississippi State University, Appalachian State University, Texas Women’s University, the Music Institute of Chicago, and Florida A&M University, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to higher education. Adding to his educational impact, he maintained a large private studio in the Dallas/Fort Worth area for many years, shaping young musicians in public schools as a respected clinician and adjudicator. Many of John McGuire’s former students have achieved success as music educators and performers in prominent ensembles across the nation, a testament to his effective mentorship.
Since joining Colorado State University, John McGuire has been instrumental in hosting significant events, including regional workshops and the International Horn Competition of America on multiple occasions (2017, 2019, and 2024). Notably, he played a key role in organizing the 56th International Horn Symposium in 2024, a collaborative event between IHCA and the International Horn Society, further cementing CSU as a hub for horn performance and education.
Dr. McGuire’s leadership extends beyond musical events. He was selected for the CSU Office of the President’s Leadership Fellow’s Program, a professional development initiative focused on leadership skills and higher education administration. During this fellowship, he contributed to employee health and wellness projects within CSU Human Resources. Building upon this leadership experience, John McGuire was appointed program head of the Music Department at CSU in 2024, demonstrating his growing influence and administrative capabilities within the university.
John McGuire’s formal education includes a D.M.A. and B.M. in Music Performance from the University of Alabama, an M.M. in Performance from Florida State University, and a Performer’s Certificate from the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University in Chicago. He studied with renowned horn professors Charles “Skip” Snead, William Capps, and Dale Clevenger, each contributing to his development as a leading horn player and educator.
In conclusion, Dr. John McGuire’s distinguished career encompasses significant achievements as a performer, soloist, educator, and leader. His dedication to the horn, commitment to new music, and impact on students solidify his position as a prominent figure in the music world. His ongoing work at Colorado State University and within the broader music community ensures his continued influence for years to come.
