Austin Pence is a conductor, educator, and arranger known for transforming programs and cultivating expressive, high-performing ensembles. With ten years of professional experience, he brings a passionate, intentional approach to music education grounded in his signature “Five Components of Sound” — balance, blend, style, control, and musicality.
Austin believes music education should empower students to achieve the highest level of performance. His mission is to help young musicians grow into confident, expressive performers through thoughtful instruction, meaningful repertoire, and a learning environment built on curiosity and excellence.
A strong advocate for contemporary musicality, Austin emphasizes contrast, phrasing, and modern approaches to articulation. His rehearsals prioritize efficiency and reflective practice, often incorporating recorded analysis to help students learn to evaluate their own sound and progress outside of class.
During his tenure at Magoffin County High School, Austin has led one of the most significant program turnarounds in Eastern Kentucky. What began as a small pep band with limited music literacy became a competitive ensemble producing the school’s first All-District and All-State musicians. Several of his students became the first in school history to pursue music education at major institutions such as the University of Kentucky and Eastern Kentucky University. His achievements earned district recognition as well as prestigious grants from the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation.
Before teaching at Magoffin County, Austin served at the University of Kentucky as a teaching assistant and later as a sabbatical replacement, directing ensembles including the Repertory Jazz Band. He also taught at Lafayette High School, serving as the saxophone section instructor and director of the saxophone choir, and contributed to the success of the North Hardin High School Marching Band, which earned 2nd Place at the KMEA State Finals during his time on staff.
In addition to his work as an educator and conductor, Austin is an active arranger and has published works for woodwind ensembles and beginner instrumentalists. He has been a performing member of the MetroGnomes Big Band since 2016.
Outside of music, Austin enjoys working on cars, following UK sports, and taking on home-improvement projects.