Thank you for your wonderful workshop on the Talking Drum at Texas Music Educators convention. Your clinic “Skin that Speaks” was the most entertaining, and informative clinics I have attended in at least the past 10 years. Your knowledge about the drums and as it relates to community was fantastic. Your students ensembles were fantastic as well….. what we have come to expect from the UTA Department of Music.
– Michael Hejny, Director of Bands, Arlington ISD
Expertly performed by Varner…… One of the outstanding performances recorded here is Varner’s own “reVelations,”……. Varner turns in a spirited and virtuosic performance…. particularly strong and refreshing interpretation by Varner. Theultimate take away from this recording: solidly crafted performances with an ear for a variety of percussive colors and textures
– John Lane, Review of Dr. Varner’s latest CD “reVelations”
Your performance as guest soloist was excellent and inspiring…… an outstanding display of mastery on the instrument….
– Rich Macdonald, Director of Percussion Studies Winona State University
The Attendees appreciated your expertise and enjoyed the humor scattered through your presentation
– Rebecca J. Brashier, President, European Music Educators Association
This was simply the BEST percusssion demonstration I have ever attended…. Amazing…. two thumbs up!
– Frank J. Orlowski III, College of science alumni
Congratulations on a magnificent performance of my Concertino for Marimba…. God bless you!
– Paul Creston, recognized composer, 1981
Your passion, knowledge, and warm nature was felt by all!!
– Jim Royle, president Connecticut chapter of the Percussive Arts Society, 2000 PAS Chapter president of the year
Good Taste, intelligence, and talent!
– Dr. Robert Lemay, Composer Quebec, Canada
By every standard with which we evaluate performance…..musical sensitivity, phrasing, accuracy, his performance was clearly outstanding.
– Dennis Delucia, Rutger University, Drum Corp Hall of Fame, Modern Drummer Magazine
Dr.Varner is a highly reputed artist who commands an unreserved respect.
– Dr. William Komla Amoaku, World Musician, Director of the NationalTheatre of Ghana Africa
Of all the intelligent, aspiring and capable artists Mr. Varner ranks among the top ten.
– Robert Breithaupt, President of Percussive Arts Society,professor of percussionCapitol University, OH
He is an outstanding performer, a sensitive musician and a true professional.
– Linda McDavitt, Director of Bands MacArthur High School, San Antonio, TX
Michael Varner is an incredible snare drummer…. in fact he is the best snare drummer I have ever heard.
– Charles Owen, Philadelphia Orchestra, PAS Hall of Fame
I could feel the excitement of the audience around me.
– Dr. David Stokan Ft. Worth Schola Cantorum, retired
He doesn’t stop at the best, he continually challenges himself to greater things.
– Thomas Willson, Director of Bands, The American School in Japan
Varner’s finely-crafted works are a valuable addition to the percussion repertoire.
– Bansy Johnson, Arlington Daily News arts editor