Geoffrey Neuman grew up in Illinois and moved to Southern California as a teenager. After graduating from high school, he followed his passion for music while studying at a community college. He later moved to Las Vegas, where he spent more than three decades continuing his education, teaching and conducting students, and performing music with world-renowned artists.

Neuman earned a Bachelor of Music in music education, a Master of Music in music education and a Doctor of Musical Arts in orchestra conducting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He taught music courses and directed the orchestra, marching band and musical ensembles for youth. high school and college students.

As a professional musician, Neuman has played string bass, double bass and electric bass in musical theater, jazz, opera, rock and other concert performances alongside Andrea Bocelli, Jennifer Hudson, Elton John and other internationally recognized musicians.

“I love music and learning,” said Neuman.

Neuman has served as director and assistant professor, instrumental studies, at SCF since August 2023. He shares his passion for music by conducting the SCF Bradenton Symphony Orchestra and SCF Symphonic Band and teaching private bass lessons, music theory, music fundamentals and music appreciation.

“What I like most about my job is the faculty and students I work with every day,” Neuman said. “I enjoy working with our students and having music be the center of what we do.”

As a music educator, Neuman focuses on creating positive and inclusive experiences for all students while maintaining high academic standards and expectations. Outside of the music department, he has previously served as a chess club advisor.

“While I do not play chess myself, I did not want those students to lack the opportunity, so I said yes when they asked me to be the advisor,” he said.

Neuman has seen firsthand how a college education can positively impact students’ lives and futures, including his son.

“… I believe that getting a college degree can be the best way to have opportunities for success in life,” Neuman said.

Neuman values SCF’s commitment to academic excellence and student success. He encourages his students to give their best effort during their college experience.

“This is a great place to start your college career,” he said. “It is not only affordable, but the level of education is extremely high. Make college the best time of your life but always work hard. The level of your success is up to you.”

In his free time, Neuman enjoys attending concerts, listening to music, going to the gym, riding his bike and spending time with his family and friends. He appreciates the support of his loved ones, which he says has helped shape him into the person he is today.

In the future, Neuman plans to travel to Europe, continue learning and strive to become a better person each day. He wants to be remembered as someone who worked hard, overcame obstacles and provided students with positive experiences that lasted well beyond their time in his ensembles or classes.

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