 |
||
|
When I was 16, while studying trumpet at the Interlochen Arts Academy, I skipped the senior class trip to Mackinac Island to make an audition tape. (It sounds funny to use the word "tape" these days, but that's what it was.) The recording session, with Byron Hanson at the piano, included the Enesco "Legend," Tartini "Concerto" and Haydn "Concerto - 2nd mvmt." I never listened to the recording much (of the Enesco) because I was really mad at myself for being a bit sharp at the soft, muted ending. I listen now, almost 25 years later, and I'm amazed at how hard on myself I was, especially considering that recordings back then were made on one take. The picture (below) of Paul Merkelo and me was taken about a year later, when we were both attending the National Music Camp at Interlochen. Paul is now solo trumpet with the Montreal Symphony and a very close friend to this day. 
|
This picture of Paul and me was taken about 24 years later (in July, 2010), when we conducted a joint master class at the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, CA. 
Joe Miller is a friend of mine from my days in Naples, FL. Joe and his wife Madeline are two of the sweetest people you'll ever meet. He's a 69-yr-old trumpet player, who has a real passion for life, love and music. This summer, their son Joe Jr. died in a tragic climbing accident. I had sent Joe Sr. my "Reflections" (from Day-tudes vol. 1), and he and his wife took to it. Madeline wouldn't let him finish his daily practice without running through it once. Joe recently sent me a recording of himself playing "Reflections" as well as some videos of his son. Rather powerful stuff. I would encourage you all to watch the video of Joe Jr.'s interview - and then "find your spinach." |
|
|
© 2010 Stephensonmusic, Inc. |
||