Disney Youth Programs Blog

Last month, we announced the acclaimed musicians who will be teaching the Disney Performing Arts Conservatory at the Disneyland Resort this summer. Now, we are excited to share two guest artists and industry professionals who will join the impressive line-up. 

Gordon Goodwin

Joining us as a guest conductor, is Grammy winning composer and arranger, Gordon Goodwin. Having amassed 21 Grammy nominations, four Grammy wins and three Emmy wins, Goodwin is the most decorated big band leader in the 21^st century. He is the leader of Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band, an internationally-known big band with a reputation as one of the most exciting large ensembles in jazz with seven critically acclaimed-records.

Gordon’s compositions for film and television have garnered him three Emmy Awards. He has written and worked with artists like Ray Charles, Christina Aguilera, Johnny Mathis, John Williams, Natalie Cole, Mel Torme, Quincy Jones, and Michael Giacchino to name a few. His charts are played all over the world, and along with his method books and CDs, have been a robust source of inspiration and learning for thousands of young musicians. His work can also be heard on the recent Pixar film Incredibles 2.

Wayne Bergeron

Wayne Bergeron, our second guest artist, is brought to us by Yamaha Corporation of America. As one of the most sought-after musicians in the world, Bergeron travels globally for studio sessions, film dates, international tours, jazz concerts, guest appearances, and clinics. 

Bergeron’s repertoire includes his own solo CD releases, which earned him a Grammy nomination in 2004 for Best Large Jazz Ensemble, hundreds of musical performances in Los Angeles, and guest appearances with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, The New York Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, Dallas Symphony, Taiwan Symphony, and Tokyo Philharmonic. Bergeron has also worked on over 400 television and motion picture soundtracks including The Incredibles 2, Ralph Breaks the Internet, Moana, Frozen, Toy Story 3, Monsters University, and more. 

Mentored by many musical legends, Bergeron hopes to inspire a new generation of young players as a clinician and educator. “Nothing makes me feel more accomplished than hearing a young musician say that I inspired them or had a positive influence on their life.” Bergeron is currently on faculty at California State University Northridge.

Disney Performing Arts Conservatory for Instrumental is available to book for musicians age 14 through 22. Give us a call at (714) 520-6423 or click here to register! Don’t forget to sign up for our new e-newsletter for the latest news and updates on all things Disney Youth Programs.

*Guests artists are subject to change without notice.