Chief Petty Officer Kenneth S. Pfabe, USN
Trumpeter, Naval Academy Band

Chief Musician Ken Pfabe began his musical career in 1975 in North Canton, Ohio as part of the Selmer Corporation’s “Music for America” program. He graduated in 1984 from Londonderry High School in Londonderry, NH. MUC Pfabe earned a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of New Hampshire, where he studied with Naval Academy Band alumnus, Dr. Robert Stibler, and continued his studies with Tim Morrison. Currently, MUC Pfabe is pursuing a Master of Science degree in Human Resource Management from University of Maryland University College.

Prior to joining the Navy, MUC Pfabe worked as a freelance musician throughout the northeast, and as a high school and college music educator. He also served as trumpet instructor and jazz band director at Salisbury University, Salisbury, MD.

In 1992, MUC Pfabe auditioned and was selected for assignment to the U.S. Naval Academy Band. Following recruit training at RTC, Great Lakes in the summer of 1993, he reported for duty as trumpeter with the concert band, marching band, “Next Wave” jazz ensemble, brass ensemble, brass quintet, duty jazz combos, and ceremonial units. MUC Pfabe has been the Auditions supervisor since 1999 and is also the USNA Band’s Tricare/USFHP Health Benefits Resource.

MUC Pfabe has been awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation (2 awards), Navy Good Conduct Medal (5 awards), National Defense Service Medal (2 awards), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Navy Pistol Shot (Sharpshooter) Ribbon.

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