The Lee University Trumpet Ensemble was featured at the International Trumpet Guild Conference at Columbus State University in Columbus, Ga.
Directed by Christina Erickson, the group was selected from among several other groups who sent in audition recordings. They were given two opportunities to perform.
The ensemble, consisting of eight undergraduates, one graduate student, and one Encore student, played three pieces for their first performance: “Scherzino,” by Jack Normain Kimmel, “The Ascension,” by Paul Basler, and an arrangement of “For The Beauty Of The Earth,” which Ms. Erickson commissioned from arranger Bernie Walker.
According to Ms. Erickson, “The program was met with great approval from the audience of all trumpet players – talk about a tough crowd! – and it went very well.”
Their second performance of “For The Beauty of The Earth” drew an even larger crowd later that day. “The most enthusiastic audience member was none other than trumpet icon Doc Severinsen,” continues Ms. Erickson. “He was very excited about the arrangement, and particularly the stunning piccolo trumpet playing of Gabriel Lajas.”
While at the conference, the students had the opportunity to hear concerts, recitals and lectures from noted jazz and classical performers and scholars, from America and abroad. In addition, they had access to the world’s greatest trumpets, mouthpieces, mutes, sheet music, and every trumpet-related item imaginable.
The chance to perform at this conference was the highlight of the ensemble’s year, and they look forward to auditioning for future opportunities. Members include grad student Gabriel Lajas, Encore student Rhoda Ruffner, and undergraduates Jordan Bailey, Mason Brown, Ryan Fagan, Stephen Frey, Tyler Hatmaker, Brieanne Maya, Lindsey Shewbridge and Trevor Suits.