Johnathon Bower holds a Master's Degree from Eastern Michigan University, where he also earned his Bachelor's degree in music education. While studying Music Education and Trombone Performance, his graduate research centered around trombone pedagogy used at the Paris Conservatoire during the nineteenth century. John is currently an academic advisor at Purdue University.

John marched Baritone and Euphonium at the Glassmen from 2009-2012. In 2017, John performed with RhythmX Winds, winning a WGI World Championship. Before returning to graduate school John spent time as a band director, freelance trombonist, lesson teacher, and visual tech in Southeast Michigan, primarily at Plymouth-Canton. He spent 6 seasons as a visual technician at the Madison Scouts from 2020-2025.