Versatile violinist Derek Powell is as comfortable performing alternative styles as he is uncovering the subtleties of the great classical works. Derek is the newest member the National Symphony Orchestra, a position he won while serving in the United States Army Band “Pershings Own”. While in the Army Band Derek performed for the country’s military and civilian leaders and for countless notable public events. In the wider Washington, DC community Derek frequently collaborates with the Grammy nominated music collective Inscape as well as the community engagement focused group Sound Impact

Before devoting himself to music Derek pursued his interest in behavioral science earning a double major in neurobiology and music performance from the University of Wisconsin – Madison where he studied with professor David Perry. Derek completed his Masters degree from Rice University studying with professor Kathleen Winkler and was a recipient of the Shepherd School of Music Distinguished Fellowship in Violin. Derek continued his violin and orchestra studies as a fellow in the New World Symphony, America’s Orchestra Academy. In the summer Derek performs with the Grand Teton Music Festival Orchestra and has performed in the Verbier Festival Chamber Orchestra, the Strings Festival Orchestra in Steamboat Springs, CO.