Austin Packer is an award-winning cellist, educator, and performer dedicated to helping students develop a lifelong love of music. With extensive experience as both a professional musician and teacher, he is passionate about making music education engaging, inspiring, and accessible for students of all ages.

​

Austin began studying the cello at age nine and has since earned top honors in numerous local, state, and national competitions. His achievements include First Place in the MTNA Young Artist Competition (Utah Division), Second Place in the MTNA Young Artist Competition (Southwest Division) in Santa Barbara, California, First Place in the UMTA Concerto Competition, and two victories in the Weber State University Concerto Night Competition.

​

As a performer, Austin has appeared as a soloist, chamber musician, orchestral musician, and recording artist. He has served in leadership positions including Principal Cellist of the University of Utah Philharmonia and Chamber Orchestra Ogden and has been featured as a concerto soloist performing Elgar's Cello Concerto. His recording work can be heard on numerous albums and singles, including Jason Lyle Black's Piano Preludes, produced by Paul Cardall.

​

Equally committed to education, Austin has spent years teaching private lessons, coaching ensembles, and mentoring young musicians. While studying at the University of Utah, he was selected to serve as a Teaching Assistant and performed as a member of the Michie Graduate String Quartet, appearing regularly as a guest artist at festivals, educational events, and chamber music competitions. His teaching philosophy combines structured musical training with creativity, curiosity, and joy, helping students build both skill and confidence while developing a meaningful connection to music.

​

Austin holds a Bachelor of Music in Cello Performance from Weber State University and pursued graduate studies at the University of Utah. His training includes study with Dr. Viktor Uzur as well as Utah Symphony musicians Pegsoon Whang and John Eckstein.

​

Originally from Utah and now residing in St. Cloud, Florida, Austin enjoys spending time with his wife and four children, whether at home, at the beach, or exploring Disney World. Through both performance and education, he strives to enrich lives through the transformative power of music.