Airman First Class Emma Nixon joined the Band of the West as a horn player in March 2026. A native of Peshastin, Washington, she attended the University of Idaho where she studied under Jason Johnston and earned both a Bachelor of Music Education and a Bachelor of Music in Horn Performance.
In May 2025, she completed a Master of Music in Horn Performance at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music, where she studied under Jeff Nelsen. Prior to her enlistment, A1C Nixon participated in the Aspen Summer Music Seminar, performing with and studying alongside the American Brass Quintet.
Her experience includes performing with the Palouse Brass Ensemble, the Walla Walla Symphony, and as a member of the Disneyland All-American College Band (Summer 2022). She has received numerous scholarships and awards, including the prestigious Presser Foundation Scholarship.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Music Education; Bachelor of Music in Horn Performance, University of Idaho Lionel Hampton School of Music, Moscow, Idaho (2021)
Master of Music in Horn Performance, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, Bloomington, Indiana (2025)
ASSIGNMENTS
Student, Basic Military Training, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas (Jan 2026-Mar 2026)
Horn Player, United States Air Force Band of the West, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas (March 2026-Present)
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
Expert Marksmanship Ribbon
Air Force Training Ribbon
EFFECTIVE DATE OF PROMOTION
Airman First Class, March 20, 2026