Master Sergeant Robert Vitale joined the United States Air Force Academy Band, Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, in March 2014. He currently performs as a clarinetist with the Concert Band, Marching Band, and Academy Winds.
MSgt Vitale is a native of Long Island, NY. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from George Mason University, and a Masters of Music in Clarinet Performance from Stony Brook University. His primary teachers include Mitch Kamen, Dr. Brian Jones, Lora R. Ferguson, and Alan R. Kay. While attending George Mason University, MSgt Vitale was awarded principal clarinet chairs for The Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble and Concert Band. He was also featured as an honors recitalist in 2007, and was selected as a winner for the 2008 concerto competition when he performed the Mozart Clarinet Concerto K. 622. While attending Stony Brook University, he performed in the Symphony Orchestra and made his Lincoln Center debut premiering a new work with their Contemporary Chamber Players ensemble. MSgt Vitale is also the Principal Clarinet of the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra in Greeley, Colorado. He is an enthusiastic educator and takes every opportunity to mentor young talent. His tenure with both the GPO and the Academy Band has led him to perform master classes and clinics throughout the entire Front Range. In addition to his craft as a performer, he also possesses a skillset in professional instrument repair where he manages a large library of wood wind instruments for the Air Force Academy Band. When getting away from the clarinet, MSgt Vitale is a very dedicated father to his therapy dog Terry. He’s also an automotive hobbyist and novice racer.
EDUCATION:
2005 High School Diploma, Sachem East High School, Farmingville, NY
2009 Bachelor of Music Education, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA
2012 Masters of Music, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
ASSIGNMENTS:
March 2014 – Present, USAF Academy Band Peterson AFB, CO
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS:
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal