Dr. David Bilger

Professor

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Biography

David Bilger is a Trumpet Professor at Northwestern University's Bienen School of Music, where he was appointed in February 2022. He has received acclaim from major publications such as The New York Times, noted for his 'easy brilliance,' and the Washington Post, highlighting his 'engaging legato touch.' Before his role at Northwestern, Bilger served as the principal trumpet of the Philadelphia Orchestra from 1995 to 2022 and previously held a position with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. He has performed as a soloist with orchestras across the United States, including the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, participating in significant performances and premieres of various works. In addition to his performing career, Bilger has a robust teaching background, having been a faculty member at the Curtis Institute of Music and other prestigious institutions. He has taught master classes at numerous renowned schools and festivals, sharing his expertise with aspiring musicians. Bilger holds a Master of Music degree from the Juilliard School of Music and a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Illinois, and he is recognized as a Yamaha Performing Artist.

Research Interests

Experience

Trumpet Professor

2022-02-28 — Present

Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music • Evanston, IL

Principal Trumpet

— Present

Philadelphia Orchestra • Philadelphia, PA

Various Teaching Positions

— Present

Curtis Institute of Music, Temple University, University of Georgia, Rice University, and Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University •

Courses

Trumpet Performance Music Interpretation

Requirements for Northwestern University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
U.S. Bachelor's degree or equivalent
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Resume/CV
  • TOEFL/IELTS scores (if applicable)
Specialization Notes

Standard PhD requirements for TGS departments including Chemistry, Physics, and Sociology.