Brian Tinkel is the Director of Percussion Studies at Mars Hill College. He has received both a B.M. and M.M. in Percussion Performance from the University of Massachusetts Amherst where he studied with Dr. Peter Tanner, Eduardo Leandro and Thom Hannum. Brian has been admitted into candidacy for the doctoral degree at the University of Oklahoma.

While being involved with drum corps for over fifteen years his performance opportunities lead him to being a member of the Boston Crusaders and Star of Indiana. He went on to perform with the Star of Indiana's Brass Theater production where he toured with The Canadian Brass and Nexus. Since devoting his time to teaching Brian has been on faculty with the Crossmen, the Glassmen and has coordinated percussion activities with Magic of Orlando and the Madison Scouts. Brian was most recently with the Carolina Crown as the Percussion Caption Head and Arranger.

As an active solo and chamber performer, Brian has given recitals at several universities and performs with his wife in a flute and percussion duo. Brian was Principal Timpanist with the Enid Philharmonic and has performed with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. He has participated in many masterclasses, concerts, and recitals including sessions with Robert Van Sice, William Moersch, and Nexus. He has been an invited clinician at numerous college workshops and arranges for percussion ensembles across the country.

Tinkel is sponsored by Pearl Drums/Adams Musical Instruments, Remo Drum Heads, Innovative Percussion Sticks and Mallets, and Avedis Zildjian Cymbals and is an active member of the Percussive Arts Society.