Austin Pancner has a multifaceted career as a performer, educator, and health and wellness professional. As a performer, he holds the position of bass trombone at the Southwest Florida Symphony, and he has performed with ensembles such as the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. As a soloist, he won the IWBC Bass Trombone Division 2 Solo Competition in 2022, was named runner-up in the Indianapolis Musicale Matinee Solo Competition in 2020, and was an American Trombone Workshop Finalist in 2018.
As an educator, Austin regularly presents at festivals such as The International Trombone Festival and the International Women’s Brass Conference. He has also given over 30 masterclasses and workshops at various schools across the country including Vanderbilt University, Indiana University, DePaul University, and Rutgers University.
As an entrepreneur, Austin founded The Functional Musician, an online coaching company that helps musicians live and perform without pain through injury prevention and recovery programs. His recovery program has helped over 60 musicians worldwide and continues to impact the music community. He holds several health and wellness accreditations from the National Academy of Sports Medicine, Precision Nutrition, Functional Movement Systems, and The Ready State.
Austin is currently completing the final steps of his Doctoral Degree as a doctoral candidate with an expected graduation date of December 2023. He earned a Performers Diploma and Master’s Degree from Indiana University and a Bachelor’s Degree from Carthage College.
Austin is based in Cincinnati, OH where he spends his time with his piccolo-playing wife, Rebecca, and their mini goldendoodle Poochini.
“I’ve constantly searched for an instrument that is easy, fun, and capable of a wide spectrum of different timbres and colors, and I’ve found it! I’m grateful I’ve found a horn that makes me excited to play everyday and a company that cares about their customers. Thank you, Edwards!”