Music critics, guest conductors, and audiences praised his Symphonic Wind Orchestra for its musicianship, sophisticated repertoire, and ensemble balance. The group made seven international tours and performed in sixteen countries, in addition to taking numerous tours in the United States and performing often in the Loma Linda area. The LLA program under his direction also included numerous smaller ensembles and four preparatory groups, which began in fifth grade and extended through junior high school.

Binkley completed a B.Mus. in music education at the University of Cincinnati and received a performer's certificate from the College-Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati. He completed an M.Mus. at Andrews University in 1973.

He began teaching in the Belle Glade school system in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1962. Ten years later he was selected from over 5000 teachers as the Duval County, Florida, Teacher of the Year. The Loma Linda Chamber of Commerce also named Binkley as Teacher of the Year in 1992 and 2005. In 2006, he was chosen by the NAD Alumni Awards Foundation as one of ten in the U.S. and Canada to be recognized as a Teacher of Excellence. In the summer he retired, the city of Loma Linda honored him by proclaiming August 1^st Philip R. Binkley Day.

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