Eric Giles is a versatile performer, educator, and arts advocate with a career spanning orchestral performance, chamber music, and teaching. He has played with numerous orchestras, including the Memphis, Amarillo, and Saint Joseph Symphonies, and is a founding member of the Shades Wind Quintet and the Re(a)d Trio. He has performed at the National Association of College Wind and Percussion Instructors, College Music Society, and International Double Reed Society conferences, showcasing works by African American composers. Giles won 1st prize in the Art of Chamber Music Competition and 3rd in the Master of Concerto Competition. As an educator, he has built vibrant studios across several states and taught students who’ve earned top honors in regional and state ensembles. He has given masterclasses at major universities and taught at summer festivals including the Performing Arts Institute. Giles holds degrees from Columbus State, UMKC, and the University of North Texas, where he earned his DMA.