Biography

Dr. Colby Vasquez is from Tollhouse, a small town in California’s Sierra Nevada foothills. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music Education from California State University Fresno, a Master of Music (MM) in Music Education with an emphasis in Instrumental Conducting from the University of Massachusetts, and a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Instrumental Conducting the University of Florida.

 Dr. Vasquez has worked at NC State since 2025. He serves as conductor for the NC State Symphonic Band, Trombone Ensemble, and he assists Dr. Paul Garcia, NC State Director of Bands, in directing the NC State athletic bands, including the 400+ member NC State Marching Band- The Power Sound of the South.

While at the University of Florida, Dr. Vasquez had the opportunity to conduct the University Concert Bands, Symphonic Band, Brass Band, New Music Ensemble, and Trombone Ensemble. He also worked with the Gator Marching Band and the athletic pep bands, including directing the band for the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball National Championship Game in San Antonio, Texas.  

Prior to attending The University of Florida, Dr. Vasquez was the Associate Director of Instrumental Music at Clovis West High School in Fresno, California from 2020-2023. Before that, he was the Director of Instrumental Music at William C. Overfelt High School in San Jose, CA from 2016-2019. Dr. Vasquez continues to be active as a marching arts designer – serving as Program Coordinator for Clovis West High School and writing drill for The University of Massachusetts Minuteman Marching Band, including their performance in the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Colby has also been very involved in the drum & bugle corps activity. He marched in the Santa Clara Vanguard for 3 years, 2010, 2011, & 2012. Since “aging out”, Colby has worked as a staff member for both the Santa Clara Vanguard & Vanguard Cadets in several roles:

  • 2013 & 2014: Operations & Visual Staff for Vanguard Cadets (2013 DCI Open Class Champions & High Visual Award Winners)

  • 2015 & 2016: Operations Staff for Santa Clara Vanguard

  • 2017, 2018, & 2019: Visual Caption Head for Vanguard Cadets (2017 & 2018 DCI Open Class Champions, 2017 High Visual Award Winners)

  • 2022: Visual Caption Head for Santa Clara Vanguard

  • 2023, 2024, 2025, & 2026 : Assistant Corps Director for Santa Clara Vanguard

  • 2027: Director of Vanguard Cadets