A versatile and accomplished performer, Gary plays Lead Trumpet with the Asheville Jazz Orchestra, freelances and contracts with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and other cruise lines. He performs frequently as lead trumpet at the North Carolina State Theater in Flat Rock, NC, most recently playing in the pit orchestra for "Chicago", "The Drowsy Chaperone" and "The Producers". He has performed extensively in commercial dance groups, big bands, Latin bands, jazz groups, classical brass ensembles, and has an extensive repertoire of jazz and pop standards. He has performed with Bobby Shew, Dizzy Gillespie, Byron Stripling, Larry Elgart, the Nelson Riddle Orchestra,The Temptations, Disney on Ice, Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey Circus (with whom he traveled for a year as lead trumpet in 1980), Tulsa Philharmonic, Annapolis Symphony and the San Diego Symphony. In September 2000 Gary performed at the Monterey Jazz festival as Lead Trumpet and featured soloist with Navy Band San Diego's Fleet Jazz Ensemble. As a Navy Musician he was frequently featured as a soloist throughout his career and at various times was leader of many different ensembles, including big bands, top 40 bands, reception combos, ceremonial groups, and brass quintets. He was a member of the premiere Naval Academy Band in Annapolis MD from 1986 to 1995. He has performed as guest artist with the San Diego State University Jazz Band I and University of Tulsa's Jazz Band I.
In addition to duties as a performer and band leader, he gave lessons and clinics in Jazz Improvisation and Trumpet Techniques for elementary to advanced students throughout his Navy career.
Since leaving the Navy Music Program in April 2005 after 22 years of service, Gary has pursued and received a Master of Arts in Teaching (Music) degree from Western Carolina University in 2009.
Before receiving his degree at WCU, Mr. Leming recieved his Bachelor of Music Performance from the University of Tulsa where he studied trumpet with Ron Predl. Other teachers include Larry Black of the Atlanta Symphony, Don Jacoby, Carmine Caruso, Bobby Shew, Cecil Bridgewater and Dr. Asher Zlotnik, Professor Emeritus Peabody Conservatory.
