Euphoniumist Robert Benton moves and entertains audiences with his clear musical communication, sublime lyricism, technical mastery, and a fun, engaging presence on stage. Robert’s musical personality is so effectively conveyed in performance that listeners often forget that there is an instrument between them. He has honed these skills over the years through myriad professional performing experiences all around the world, from recitals in Austria to concerts with the Detroit Symphony; from Brass Bands in Nebraska to Wind Bands in Beijing; from competitions in Korea to concerti in Madrid.

When not performing, Benton keeps busy commissioning and recording new pieces for the euphonium. He has commissioned over a dozen works by composers such as Joel Puckett, Ricardo Lorenz, Steven Bryant, and Peter Meechan. Robert has recorded two CDs which feature these composers and others. His other major creative activity is working on his vocalise project–which includes published editions of Rossini bel canto vocalises as well as 20th-century French and Italian vocalises.

Dr. Benton is currently associate professor of low brass and music theory at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, where he takes great joy in educating and inspiring the next generation of musicians with his infectious enthusiasm for all things musical. His students have won concerto competitions and places in prestigious graduate programs across the country. Benton is also a Staff Sergeant in the US Army. In his 20 year (plus) military career, he has served with the 82nd Airborne Division Band, the 108th Army Band, the 338th Army Band, and currently, the 312th Army Band.

Robert Benton holds degrees from Oakland University (BM), Michigan State University (MM), and the University of Michigan (DMA). Robert is a Besson-Buffet performing artist and clinician, and performs on a Besson Sovereign Hybrid euphonium.