L. Ray Strobel

Ray Strobel (b. 1971) is originally from Manvel, TX, and his decision to pursue music was greatly influenced by Paul D. Rogers, band director at Manvel Jr. High, and Donald Uhlig, who taught him private lessons on trumpet for nearly six years.

Ray is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Music Composition in 1993 and Masters in Music Education in 2001.

Ray has been teaching music since 1996, in public schools and teaching private lessons in many instruments. Since 1999 Ray has also taught various music classes at the Summer Music and Art Day Camp at Chatham University. Ray is currently the elementary band director for the Wilkinsburg School District in the greater Pittsburgh area, and composes many custom arrangements for his students.

Ray's compositions include works for concert band, church choir, and chamber and solo instruments. He has also written songs and arranged horn parts for the ska band "Cut Once" as their trumpet player.

Ray lives in Allison Park, PA, with his wife Jennifer and daughter, Lake. He enjoys watching sports, especially football. He and his family participate with a medieval recreation society.