Bio

🎺 Sparky Koerner: Trumpet Maestro, Educator, Jazz Advocate

For over four decades, Sparky Koerner has infused the Texas Gulf Coast with the vibrant sounds of jazz. Whether leading “Sparky’s Jazz Express,” grooving with The Galvanized Brass, or headlining the Sunday Jazz Brunch at Marais Restaurant in Dickinson, Sparky brings fire and finesse to every stage.

His trumpet has shared the spotlight with legends — Doc Severinsen, Tom "Bones" Malone, Kevin Eubanks, Diane Schuur, Marvin Stamm, Bobby Watson, and Johnny Mathis, just to name a few. From orchestras to operas, jazz festivals to church services, Sparky plays with soul, precision, and undeniable charisma.

🎓 A proud graduate of Louisiana State University (B.M.) and the University of North Texas (M.M.Ed.), he studied with master teachers George Foss, Leonard Candelaria, John Haynie, and Don “Jake” Jacoby. He was honored with UNT’s 1:00 O’Clock Award and featured in multiple editions of Who’s Who, celebrating his dedication to music and education.

👨‍🏫 Sparky recently retired from a remarkable 40-year tenure at College of the Mainland in Texas City, TX, where he directed instrumental music and jazz studies, taught theory and brass, and chaired the Fine Arts Department. He continues to direct the COM Community Jazz Ensemble, keeping the rhythm alive for lifelong learners and rising talent.

🏆 Under his direction, the COM Jazz Ensemble and Combo claimed top honors at jazz festivals across Texas. They performed by invitation at prestigious events including the Jazz Education Network Conference and the North Texas Jazz Festival. His groups have shared the stage with musical luminaries like Marvin Stamm, Chris Vadala, Rich Matteson, and many others.

🎷 A driving force behind jazz education, Sparky served as President of the Texas Jazz Educators Association and the International Association of Jazz Educators – Texas Unit. He’s coordinated all-star ensembles, judged state auditions, organized regional festivals, and directed conference performances that uplifted college jazz communities nationwide.

Whether mentoring musicians, lighting up a brunch gig, or leading a full ensemble in swing, Sparky Koerner remains a passionate ambassador for jazz — inspiring audiences and musicians alike with every note