Andrew R. Wheeler, American saxophonist from Tomball, Texas, is recognized for his exceptional career and international artistic influence.
He currently serves as Executive Vice President of the Brazos Valley Symphony Board of Directors and as Principal Saxophonist of the Brazos Valley Symphony.
From 1999 to 2009, Andrew was a member of the prestigious United States Navy Band in Washington D.C., holding the position of concert saxophonist.
Recruited while still a music student at the University of Houston, he became one of the youngest musicians ever appointed to this renowned ensemble.
Career with the United States Navy Band
During his ten years of service, Andrew performed for five U.S. Presidents, numerous foreign heads of state, and thousands of spectators across 48 states during six national tours.
He performed in iconic venues such as:
➤ The White House
➤ The Pentagon
➤ Arlington National Cemetery
➤ The Smithsonian
➤ The Kennedy Center
An active member of the annual Navy Band Saxophone Symposium, he distinguished himself as both a soloist and chamber musician.
He held the baritone saxophone chair in the Navy Band Saxophone Quartet (2000–2007) and later the soprano saxophone chair (2008–2009).
Collaborations and Recordings
Andrew has shared the stage with internationally renowned artists, including:
➤ Patty Labelle
➤ Larry Gatlin
➤ Denise Graves
➤ Charlotte Church
➤ CeCe Winans
His discography includes recordings with Mark Records, Altissimo, Coker & McKree, and Omega Studios.
Award-Winning Chamber Musician
Before joining the Navy Band, Andrew received prestigious awards with the Catalyst Saxophone Quartet:
➤ Winner – Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition
➤ Winner – Coleman National Chamber Music Competition
➤ Angie Machado Prize – Carmel Chamber Music Association (1998)
➤ Finalist – MTNA National Chamber Music Competition (1997)
Simultaneously, he served as Principal Saxophonist of the Moores School of Music Wind Ensemble (1996–1999) and studied saxophone with Dr. Karen Wylie and conducting with Eddie Green.
Current Activities
Now based in Montgomery, Texas, Andrew lives with his wife Terri and their two daughters, Brooklyn and Charlotte.
In addition to his musical career, he is General Manager and Operating Partner of College Station Hyundai, and represents Texas on the Southern Region Dealer Council of Hyundai Motor of America.
In 2012, he graduated from the Mays Business School at Texas A&M University, earning Summa Cum Laude honors.
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