Branker '80 receives Fulbright to teach music

When current music professor Anthony D.J. Branker '80 first arrived at the University as an undergraduate, he headed for Fine Tower instead of the music practice room. Though studying math put his parents at ease, Branker had a strong penchant for music, and he wondered why Princeton didn't have a jazz program like other universities and conservatories.

After changing his concentration to music, Branker was able to combine his passion for jazz and teaching decades later to create and develop the jazz program at Princeton. For this and other accomplishments, Branker received a Fulbright Scholar grant last spring to take his teaching talents to the Estonian Academy of Music in Tallinn, Estonia, for a semester.

"I was informed of the award in mid-April and became extremely emotional," he said in an email. "I realized that I have been given an amazing opportunity and a true blessing."

In Estonia, Branker teaches classes in jazz composition and history and conducts the conservatory big band as well as two small groups. He has also written 23 works for a jazz septet and four movements of a jazz suite inspired by the culture and people of Estonia.

"Applying for the Fulbright program was something that I have long wanted to do," Branker said. The program didn't have many institutions sponsoring jazz-related residencies, so when he saw the announcement for a jazz-related Fulbright Scholar Fellowship in Estonia, he applied immediately.

Branker first became interested in jazz music as a sophomore at Piscataway High School in New Jersey when he attended a concert that featured a jazz band. Branker described himself as "absolutely mesmerized by what [he] heard," and he "began to really listen and absorb these sounds."

Branker began teaching and conducting the University Jazz Ensembles in 1989. He said he had known he wanted to teach since he tutored younger students in math when he was twelve. "It was always a dream of mine to come back in order to create and develop a jazz program, complete with ensembles and academic courses," he said.

According to Scott Burnham, chair of the music department, Branker has realized this dream. "Tony built [the University's jazz program] from the ground up," Burnham said. The university now offers four different jazz courses and is looking for ways to fund an expansion that would allow the University to hire more faculty members.

Burnham also describes Branker as having "an extraordinary amount of energy" and praised the program Branker has created. The program sponsors a Jazz Winter Weekend in which high school bands are invited to Princeton to receive coaching and critiques from professional artists.

Branker has also provided opportunities for his students to play alongside professional artists. Burnham said "the kids are crazy about him" because of all his hard work and the dedication he has given to the program.

Branker notes a difference between the programs at Princeton and in Estonia. While the focus at Princeton is on a broad liberal arts education, the students in Estonia are enrolled in pre-professional conservatory programs, and many have previous experience working or teaching. Despite this, Branker said he sees "more similarities than differences between the jazz students," pointing to their shared dedication and strong work ethic.

And, Branker added, "they are both a joy to teach."