Dr. Zifer, Professor of Music Emeritus, holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from Ohio University, a master of music in trumpet performance from Louisiana State University, and a doctor of musical arts degree in trumpet performance with a minor in wind conducting from Louisiana State University.  Dr. Zifer retired as full-time professor of music from UE in the spring of 2023.  Prior to his retirement he taught courses in wind ensemble, concert band, jazz bands, athletic pep bands, brass ensembles, trumpet ensembles, jazz studies, and music management core courses.

Dr. Zifer’s teaching accolades include the 2010 Dean’s Teaching Award as well as the Oramay Cluthe Eades Distinguished Professorship (2018-2023).  His professional activities included principal trumpet with the Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra (1999-2022), principal trumpet with the Evansville Symphonic Band (2012-present), founding member of Shepard Brass (faculty brass quintet) and Purple Aces In The Hole (faculty traditional jazz ensemble).  He has been a guest recitalist in the US and abroad during his performing and teaching career.

As a music director Dr. Zifer’s ensembles have performed all over the United States during his time at UE.  Most recently he took the UE Jazz Band on a tour of New Orleans in the Fall of 2022.  The UE Jazz Band has also attended the Elmhurst Collegiate Jazz Festivals numerous times winning awards and recognitions.  The UE Jazz Band has also hosted several Grammy Award winning artists during his tenure.  Most notable artists include Doc Severinsen, New York Voices, and Diane Schuur.

Dr. Zifer is currently serving as the UE Music Conservatory’s trumpet instructor.  He also maintains a private trumpet studio as well as teaching over 65 trumpet students in the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation schools.  His hobbies include golf, pickleball and walking with his two Weimaraners, Fritz and Hans.