About Gerhard (Gary) Engels
Gary Engels was born in the Netherlands. His family immigrated to South Africa where he attended English schools until age 14 and in 1961 the family immigrated once again, this time to the United States.
He graduated with a B.A degree in Music from Cal State, Northridge, a Masters degree from Azusa Pacific University and Masters Certificate from Berklee School of Music. Gary studied orchestration with Gregory Stone, (film composer and founder/conductor Reno Philharmonic Orchestra He later studied filmscoring with Michael Rendish (PBS series "the City") and contemporary arranging with Jerry Gates (Bank of America, Log Cabin Syrup, Scope Mouthwash and Nestles). Gary has performed with the Circus Vargas Band and backup with the Batman and Robin Show with Burt Ward. Gary taught at the High School and College Level for over 33 years and lives with his wife and son in Oxnard, California.
Awards:
Outstanding Jazz Educator Award - 1984 NAJE (National Association of Jazz Educators)
Teacher of the Year - 1995
Service Award - 1990 Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association
Gary is a member of:
ASCAP (American Society of Composerts, Authors and Publishers)
IAJE (International Association of Jazz Educators)
FMI (Film Music Institute)
ASMAC (American Society of Music Arrangers and Composers)