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Where the most Inspired Musicians
become the most Inspiring Music Teachers

VanderCook College of Music

Faculty & Staff

Bill Rife

Instrument Repair

Bill Rife was chosen by Dr. Victor Zajec to teach the brass segment of Band Instrument Repair at VanderCook, and has taught since 2004. He has been a member of the National Association of Professional Band Instrument Repair Technicians (NAPBIRT) since 2010. His back ground in Tool and Die and love for music, has made it possible to share his repair skills and has provided brass repairs for Divine Infant and Divine Providence school bands (of Westchester, IL) from 2003 to 2012.

Bill played with the Chicago Youth Organization (CYO) for over 20 years, and is currently a member of the American Wind Band (formerly Westchester Community Band) in the southwest suburbs, as well as the West Suburban Concert Band in LaGrange, IL. He has also performed with a 60s and 70s cover-band, Scraps of Brass, since 2010.

He has played trumpet for over 40 years, and enjoys restoring antique brass instruments in his spare time.

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3140 South Federal Street
Chicago, IL 60616-3731
(312) 225-6288

The mission of VanderCook College of Music is to enrich the lives of present and future generations by developing uniquely skilled music teachers who exhibit strong character, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.

© 2025 VanderCook College of Music. All Rights Reserved.
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