Phillip Zimmerle
Department(s): Guitar
Phillip Zimmerle is a Houston based guitarist currently pursuing a Post-Baccalaureate degree in Classical Guitar Performance at the University of Houston Moores School of Music. Born and raised in Baton Rouge, LA, Phillip began recording and performing his own work at age 14, building strong relationships with local musicians and providing opening support for touring acts from across the country. After earning a BA in Creative Writing from LSU, he continued to compose, record, and tour as a solo act and with various groups from the Texas and Louisiana areas over the next decade, while also giving freelance guitar lessons. Under the tutelage of Professor Jeremy Garcia, Phillip has accompanied a number of vocalists and instrumentalists at the University of Houston, and performed solo works in recitals and masterclasses with such accomplished performers and educators as Dr. David Chapman, Mark Cruz, and 2023 GFA Competition winner Marko Topchii. He also participates yearly in the Houston Classical Guitar Festival, working directly with top players from around the world, and performs as a member of the Aura Contemporary Ensemble at UH. His primary teaching philosophy is to foster a connection with the instrument - to help the student develop a relationship with the guitar that allows them to utilize it as a tool for personal expression, bringing joy to both the performer and the listener.