Gary Parks taught both choral and instrumental music at all levels for 38 years, serving as percussion instructor for Lamar University from 1991 - 2009. He has been the principal and timpanist for the Symphony of Southeast Texas since 1980. Continuing his long-time work with church choirs, he presently serves as the director of choirs at Trinity United Methodist Church in Beaumont, Texas. He received his Bachelor of Science in Music Theory and Composition from Lamar University, and his Masters in Music Education from McNeese State University.

After retiring from teaching, Gary has devoted more time and energy to his passion - writing and arranging music. He has choral, concert band and percussion works published with several companies, including Alfred Music, Carl Fischer Music, BriLee Music, Grand Mesa Music Publishers, TRN Music Publisher, GIA Publications, Abingdon Press, and Santa Barbara Music Publishing, Inc.. Works include both solos and ensembles, some appearing on the Texas U.I.L. list.

Gary was pleased to accept a commission from the Symphony of Southeast Texas in honor of their 60th anniversary. "Fanfare and Celebration" was presented at the opening concert of the 2012-2013 season. SOST as well as New Haven Symphony Orchestra have each performed several holiday arrangements under the direction of Maestro Chelsea Tipton, II. Gary was commissioned by SOST to arrange the "Star-Spangled Banner" which was premiered in 2017 at the annual 4th of July concert.

The Beaumont Interfaith Choral Society presents an annual concert led by various area directors. Gary has traditionally participated as timpanist in these concerts. However, in 2013, he was invited to conduct the concert, featuring the works of Ralph Vaughn Williams, Antonio Vivaldi, and Tomás Luis de Victoria.

Gary performed with the Texas All-State Symphonic Band as first chair percussionist in 1966, and still works with some fellow students who also performed in that band. He was the timpani soloist with the Lamar University Wind Ensemble in their performance at the Texas Music Educators Conference in 2008. He has participated as judge and concert clinician in Texas Region X choral activities, as well as contest preparation clinician for area choirs.

When not working, Gary enjoys fishing, especially fly fishing. He has become quite adept at tying his own flies.