Gary Niehaus has a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the American Conservatory of Music. He studied with James Dutton as well as Harold Jones in percussion. His Master of Science is from University of Illinois where he studied with Tom Siwe & Fred Fairchild. He was the band director of Athens Community Unit Schools for 25 years. Niehaus has been Principal as well as Timpanist with the Jacksonville (IL) Symphony and was the Principal Percussionist for the Illinois Symphony Orchestra from which he retired after 20 years. Currently, Niehaus has celebrated his 40th year with the Springfield Municipal Band. Niehaus is also active with the Heartland Brass Band, Illinois Volunteer 10th Calvary Band, Riverboat 5 plus 1 Dixieland Jazz Band, Thornebyrds Jazz Quintet, Ansar Shrine Jazz Band, Fritz and the Flying Dutchman German Band. As a longtime member of Percussive Arts Society, Niehaus has performed in the US and abroad. Niehaus remains a staple of music education by adjudicating for many Solo and Ensemble contests throughout the Illinois and the Midwest. A versatile musician, Niehaus enjoys playing dance music such as Foxtrot, Polkas, Waltzes, Latins, Schottisches, Landler Marches, and Gallops.