John Gibson (b. 1946)

John Gibson was born in Dallas, Texas and began studying with Oakley Pittman, who was director of bands at Southern Methodist University and principal clarinetist of the Dallas Symphony. John and his family moved to Denver, Colorado where he studied with the retired principal clarinetist of the Denver Symphony, Val (Tiny) Henrich. Further studies with David Etheridge, Jerry Neil Smith, and John McGrosso completed his studies and resulted in a music education degree and masters of music performance degree from the University of Colorado. During his time at CU, John discovered his interest in arranging, taking classes in that topic whenever possible.

Although not always employed in the music business, John never stopped playing, particularly in orchestras. While clarinet has been his principal instrument, he also played oboe in orchestras for about 8 years, as well as flute, saxophone and penny whistles in other venues. John has recently retired after playing clarinet in the Vancouver, Washington Symphony and the Oregon Chamber Players in Portland, Oregon. He continues to play with the Southwest Washington Wind Symphony and as a substitute for various ensembles.