Synopsis
Connor Self is a versatile percussionist whose experience spans orchestral, chamber, solo, jazz, and marching performance. He began studying percussion in 2018 with Christopher Lennox and Mai Hessel and has since trained under educators including John Bingaman, David Cavazos, Houston Youngman, Michael Moore, Rothman Tafel, Lauren Teel, Brian Zator, Brad Meyer, Bryce Turner, Patrick Tierney, Tyler Primeaux, Matthew Estrada. As a member of the TCU Percussion Studio, Connor studies with Dr. Brian West and Jeffrey Hodge, continuing to refine his artistry through advanced performance and research. He has performed as principal percussionist with the Greater Dallas Youth Symphony and Philharmonic Orchestras and appeared with the TCU Jazz Studio at the Biennial Latin American Music Festival. His chamber and solo work emphasize composition, collaboration, and contemporary repertoire. Connor’s marching experience includes performing with the Guardians (2024) and Troopers (2025) Drum and Bugle Corps, the Byron Nelson High School Drumline, and the TCU Horned Frog Marching Band. He currently performs with the North Texas Symphony Orchestra, TCU Percussion Ensemble and TCU Horned Frog Marching Band.
Orchestral Studies
Connor Self's orchestral journey began with his role as Principal Percussionist for the Greater Dallas Youth Philharmonic Orchestra (2023-2024) and continued with his appointment as Principal Percussionist for the Greater Dallas Youth Symphony Orchestra (2024-2025). Throughout his high school years, Connor has served as Principal Percussionist for both the Byron Nelson High School Philharmonic Orchestra and the Symphonic Wind Orchestra. His performances have been shaped by his studies under renowned educators such as Richard Giangiolio, James Frank, and George Nickson, allowing him to develop a deep expertise in orchestral percussion across a wide range of repertoire. Connor currently performs with the North Texas Symphony Orchestra as a subsitute timpanist and percussionist.
Chamber Performance
Connor Self’s chamber experience began with his involvement in the Byron Nelson High School Percussion Orchestra and Percussion Ensemble, where he refined his skills in both group performance and individual expression. His ability to collaborate in smaller, more intimate settings expanded through his participation in various chamber groups, including his work as a composer and arranger for percussion and mixed ensembles. Connor currently performs with the TCU Percussion Ensemble.
Soloist Performance
Connor Self’s soloistic journey began with his focus on both performance and composition, showcasing his versatility in a wide range of solo works. His development as a solo performer has been shaped by influential educators like David Cavazos, Lauren Teel, and Patrick Tierney, who have guided his technical and expressive growth. Through recitals, compositions, and performances, Connor has expanded his solo repertoire across contemporary and classical percussion, solidifying his voice as a distinct and dynamic soloist.
Jazz Journeys
Beginning in his collegiate years, Connor Self began performing in jazz ensembles such as the renowned TCU Jazz Studio, where he appeared in performances such as the Biennial Latin American Music Festival alongside noted figures such as Pacho Flores, Paquito D'Rivera, and Daniel Freiberg.
Marching Experience
Connor Self’s marching experience spans several prestigious drum corps and high school programs. He has performed with the Troopers (2025) and Guardians (2024) Drum and Bugle Corps in the front ensemble, where his contributions in the Troopers percussion section helped earn a record season-ending percussion score for the corps, as well as the highest score in Troopers DCI history. His performances have contributed to awards such as Best Front Ensemble and Best Percussion at various competitions. Additionally, Connor has been a key member of the Byron Nelson High School Drumline, which received accolades including Best Front Ensemble at the HEB and Lonestar Percussion Contests, as well as Best Percussion at the USBands Southwestern Championship Open Class. Connor currently performs with the TCU Horned Frog Marching Band.