You know that dramatic drum solo in the grand symphonic orchestra, where harmonies interweave and melodies take flight? The percussion section anchors it all, standing tall with energetic rhythms and dynamic bursts. You could describe Glenn Webb the same way. He is a percussionist extraordinaire and so much more.
A St. George native, Glenn’s love of music began as a child when his mother took guitar lessons. As she practiced the great songs of the era, Glenn sat enthralled, tapping along to mesmerizing beats. One day his mother stopped playing and asked, “Do you want to take drum lessons? There is a teacher at the studio.” Glenn’s eager response was simply, “Sure!”
From an early age, the up-and-coming maestro mastered scales and arpeggios. His grandmother woke him early to practice so he would have time to play little league after school. Glenn’s childhood was a blend of hot summers, family and the need to practice.
Continuing his advancement in music, Glenn pursued a Bachelor of Arts in music education from Weber State University, then a master’s in Percussion Performance at the University of Utah, and finally, his Doctorate of Musical Arts at University of Nevada, Las Vegas. In Spring 2008, when Glenn was elected founding chair of the music department at then Dixie College, a music degree program quickly developed, because former college president, Stephen Nadauld, knew, “If we can get a music degree, we can get anything.”
This coming July, “Dr. Webb” will step into the role of associate dean of the arts, where his passion, interest and vast experience will further advance the Utah Tech music department.
What advice would Glenn offer to students entering the music program? “They can do whatever they want,” he said, “but first, they must become good at their craft. People are not interested in hobbyists. Students need to become skilled in creating material and getting it out there.”
Continuing on, he explained, “In today’s internet world, there are far more opportunities than what the 20th century had to offer. Big companies used to rule everything, and you had to get a record deal to become somebody. But now, you can place your music on numerous platforms—Band Camp, Spotify, Sound Cloud and YouTube, and have a financially rewarding career. As well, you can follow a path of performing in professional bands, orchestras or teaching, which is a great life, too.”
Outside of academics, Glenn established the Rebel Jazz Band in 2010, which he maintains with great enthusiasm through eight performances a year. Notable events include their annual holiday concert and the St. George Jazz Festival. And if you are wondering if Glenn engages in hobbies and interests outside of music—he does! British mystery novels and road trips with his wife through the stunning national parks of the western United States are two of his favorites.
Our interview concluded with a conversation about the fast pace at which Utah Tech is changing. So fast, Glenn said, “What you think you know about the college is probably out of date.”
Glenn believes in change—change that involves taking the best things with you as you move ahead. He finds his work at the university highly rewarding, and he encourages anyone interested in the music program to climb aboard and fulfill their dreams in a spectacular setting.
“Childhood was a blend of hot summers, family and the need to practice.”