Brent Smith (BME 2016)
Assistant Band Director, Pierce High School (Richardson, TX)
Assistant Band Director, Pierce High School (Richardson, TX)
Brent graduated with his music education degree from Baylor in May of 2016 and has begun his teaching career as the assistant band director at Pierce High School in Richardson, Texas.
While a student at Baylor, Brent was a member and fulfilled several leadership positions with the Golden Wave Band. He also performed principal and section roles in the Wind Ensemble and Baylor Symphony. Brent performed at the National Trumpet Competition as a solo and ensemble semi-finalist for four years and was a member of the ensemble finalist group, "Baylor Green" in 2014.
You won't find a more avid San Antonio Spurs fan than Brent Smith!
Regan O'Connor (BME 2016)
Graduate Studies—SMU
Graduate Studies—SMU
Regan O’Connor was a Music Education major graduating in May of 2016 now pursuing a masters of trumpet performance at Southern Methodist University. He performed with many ensembles at Baylor such as The Baylor Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Jazz band, Golden Wave Marching Band, and Courtside Players. Regan was a finalist with the group “Baylor Green” in the 2013 National Trumpet Competition and also qualified as a solo semi-finalist in 2013, 2014 and 2015. He spent the summer of 2015 performing and studying at the Brevard Music Festival with Mark Schubert (Baylor), Neil Berntsen (Pittsburgh Symphony), and Mark Hughes (Houston Symphony) and at the Eastern Music Festival in 2016, studying with Chris Gekker and Judith Saxton.
He has been playing trumpet since 6th grade, and his director Tim Linley inspired him to pursue music. Regan has been a squad leader for the marching band and the music chair for Kappa Kappa Psi Beta Alpha. Aside from music, Regan enjoys sports such as basketball, traveling, and kicking back with friends. Regan is currently student teaching in Plano and will begin graduate school next fall.
Tamara Vaughn (MM 2016)
Graduate Studies—UT-Austin
Graduate Studies—UT-Austin
Originally from High Springs, Florida, Tamara Vaughn is pursuing her DMA at the University of Texas, having completed her master's degree at Baylor University in Trumpet Performance and served as the trumpet graduate assistant. Tamara is a graduate of The Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida where she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Trumpet Performance as well. While at Florida State, Tamara was involved with several organizations, including Pi Kappa Lambda Music Honors Society, and Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society, and graduated magna cum laude from the Florida State University Honors Program. Furthermore, Tamara also served as President of the Trumpet Guild of Florida State, and as Vice President of Ritual of the Beta Alpha chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota.
Tamara has competed in several competitions, such as the Music Teacher's National Association Solo Competition, the International Trumpet Guild Conference Competition, and the National Trumpet Competition, where her arrangement of Rossini's Overture to The Barber of Seville for Trumpet Octet was premiered in the Trumpet Ensemble Division. She is a member of Baylor "Green," the first prize large ensemble at NTC 2015 and won second prize in the Graduate Solo Division in 2016. Tammy has also attended numerous summer music programs, including the Chosen Vale International Trumpet Seminar, Eastern Music Festival, Brevard Music Festival, Bay View Music Festival, and the Disneyland All-American College Band, where she performed with Wayne Bergeron, John Clayton, Jiggs Whigham, and Ron Carter, among others.
In addition to Disneyland, Tamara has performed all over the United States, such as the Hilbert Circle Theater in Indianapolis and Carnegie Hall in New York City. Tamara's primary instructors consist of Wiff Rudd, Christopher Moore, Mark Schubert and Ray Sasaki. In her spare time, Tamara enjoys teaching private lessons to younger trumpet students and working with middle and high school music programs.
Tamara has competed in several competitions, such as the Music Teacher's National Association Solo Competition, the International Trumpet Guild Conference Competition, and the National Trumpet Competition, where her arrangement of Rossini's Overture to The Barber of Seville for Trumpet Octet was premiered in the Trumpet Ensemble Division. She is a member of Baylor "Green," the first prize large ensemble at NTC 2015 and won second prize in the Graduate Solo Division in 2016. Tammy has also attended numerous summer music programs, including the Chosen Vale International Trumpet Seminar, Eastern Music Festival, Brevard Music Festival, Bay View Music Festival, and the Disneyland All-American College Band, where she performed with Wayne Bergeron, John Clayton, Jiggs Whigham, and Ron Carter, among others.
In addition to Disneyland, Tamara has performed all over the United States, such as the Hilbert Circle Theater in Indianapolis and Carnegie Hall in New York City. Tamara's primary instructors consist of Wiff Rudd, Christopher Moore, Mark Schubert and Ray Sasaki. In her spare time, Tamara enjoys teaching private lessons to younger trumpet students and working with middle and high school music programs.
Ross Ahlhorn (BM 2009)
Instructor of High Brass, Washington and Lee University
http://rossahlhorn.com
Instructor of High Brass, Washington and Lee University
http://rossahlhorn.com
Ross Ahlhorn has been appointed as the Instructor of High Brass at Washington and Lee University. In 2016, Ross completed the Doctor of Musical Arts at James Madison University, in Harrisonburg, Virginia where he served as the graduate assistant, teaching undergraduate trumpet lessons and assisting in teaching general music appreciation classes. His educational background includes a Masters of Music in Trumpet Performance from Arizona State University and a Bachelors of Music in Trumpet Performance from Baylor University.
Currently, Ross held the principal trumpet chair in both the James Madison University Symphony Orchestra and Wind Symphony under the direction of Dr. Robert McCashin and Dr. Stephen Bolstad respectively. In the summer of 2013 Ross performed with the acclaimed Staunton Music Festival Orchestra in Staunton, Virginia and continues to be a freelance performer in the central and northern Virginia area.
From 2011- 2013, Ross taught privately for the Cy-Fair, Pasadena (TX), and Pearland Independent School Districts in the Houston metropolitan area. Ross’s students have achieved the highest honors available in TMEA All State and the UIL Solo and Ensemble Competition. While living in the Houston area, Ross was an active freelance performer as well as the first trumpeter to perform with the Cypress Symphony Orchestra in Cypress, Texas.
In the past, Ross has been an assistant solo cornet player in the Salt River Brass, both principal and second trumpet in the Musica Nova Orchestra of Scottsdale, Arizona. He has also performed leading roles with the Hot Springs Festival Orchestra, Arizona State University Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble as well as the Baylor University Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble.
Ross’ primary teachers have been Ryan Gardner, Wiff Rudd, David Hickman and Dr. Chris Carrillo.
Currently, Ross held the principal trumpet chair in both the James Madison University Symphony Orchestra and Wind Symphony under the direction of Dr. Robert McCashin and Dr. Stephen Bolstad respectively. In the summer of 2013 Ross performed with the acclaimed Staunton Music Festival Orchestra in Staunton, Virginia and continues to be a freelance performer in the central and northern Virginia area.
From 2011- 2013, Ross taught privately for the Cy-Fair, Pasadena (TX), and Pearland Independent School Districts in the Houston metropolitan area. Ross’s students have achieved the highest honors available in TMEA All State and the UIL Solo and Ensemble Competition. While living in the Houston area, Ross was an active freelance performer as well as the first trumpeter to perform with the Cypress Symphony Orchestra in Cypress, Texas.
In the past, Ross has been an assistant solo cornet player in the Salt River Brass, both principal and second trumpet in the Musica Nova Orchestra of Scottsdale, Arizona. He has also performed leading roles with the Hot Springs Festival Orchestra, Arizona State University Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble as well as the Baylor University Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble.
Ross’ primary teachers have been Ryan Gardner, Wiff Rudd, David Hickman and Dr. Chris Carrillo.
David Becker (BME 2006)
Assistant Band Director, Apollo Junior High (Richardson, TX)
Assistant Band Director, Apollo Junior High (Richardson, TX)
David Becker is currently in his sixth year as Assistant Band Director at Apollo Junior High in Richardson, TX. He directs both Symphonic Band II and the Intermediate Band, and assists with Symphonic Band I and the Concert Band. Under his direction, the Apollo Symphonic Band II has consistently earned Superior ratings at the UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest. David also teaches beginning brass classes at Big Springs and Yale Elementary schools. Prior to coming to Apollo, he served for four years as Assistant Band Director at Mesquite High School where he assisted with the Wind Ensemble and the Mighty Maroon Marching Band and led the Mesquite Jazz Ensemble.
David graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Music Education, studying conducting with Kevin Sedatole and Barry Kraus and trumpet with Wiff Rudd and Barry Hopper. While at Baylor, he played in the Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble and Symphonic Band, was a two-time trumpet section leader of the Golden Wave Band, and in the fall of 2005 was one of two undergraduate staff assistants of the Golden Wave Band. David was fortunate to complete his student teaching assignment at Flower Mound High School with Rob Myers and Shadow Ridge Middle School with Mike Brown in Lewisville ISD. Currently, he is pursuing his Master’s degree in Music Education at Southern Methodist University.
David loves spending time with his wife Heather, who is a band director at North Mesquite High School, and his son, Benjamin. He also enjoys traveling, reading, and listening to great music.
David graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Music Education, studying conducting with Kevin Sedatole and Barry Kraus and trumpet with Wiff Rudd and Barry Hopper. While at Baylor, he played in the Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble and Symphonic Band, was a two-time trumpet section leader of the Golden Wave Band, and in the fall of 2005 was one of two undergraduate staff assistants of the Golden Wave Band. David was fortunate to complete his student teaching assignment at Flower Mound High School with Rob Myers and Shadow Ridge Middle School with Mike Brown in Lewisville ISD. Currently, he is pursuing his Master’s degree in Music Education at Southern Methodist University.
David loves spending time with his wife Heather, who is a band director at North Mesquite High School, and his son, Benjamin. He also enjoys traveling, reading, and listening to great music.
Simon Bosch is a freelance trumpeter and teacher, based in the greater Fort Worth area since 2013. Originally from Colorado, Simon earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Baylor University and a Master’s degree in Trumpet Performance from Florida State University, where he also served as a graduate teaching assistant for the trumpet studio.
Performing with orchestras, wind bands, and jazz ensembles, Simon has performed at the TMEA, ABA, CBDNA, and ITG conferences. He has made regular appearances in the semifinals and finals of the National Trumpet Competition, including a first place finish as a member of the Baylor Trumpet Ensemble in 2011. He has received multiple commendations from the International Trumpet Guild including the Young Artist Award in 2006, and scholarships to national and international conferences. Simon has had the pleasure of performing with numerous acclaimed musicians including Barbara Butler, Ingrid Jensen, Terell Stafford, Joey Tartell, Peter Erskine, David Sanchez, Rufus Reid, and Michael Weiss. He has recorded on the Naxos label with the Florida State University Symphony Orchestra, and can be heard on iTunes with the FSU Wind Orchestra’s performance of High Wire by John Mackey.
A strong advocate for music education, Simon has worked with music students ranging in age from 4 years to college undergraduates throughout central Texas and northwest Florida as a private instructor, band director, adjudicator, and chamber coach. He also has 10 years experience as a participant in the marching arts. Simon is a member of the International Trumpet Guild, TMEA, Pi Kappa Lambda National Music Honor Society, the Golden Key Honor Society, and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Music Fraternity. His primary mentors have included Dr. Chris Moore, Wiff Rudd, and William Pfund.
Simon married his wife Stephanie in July, 2012, and they currently reside in Granbury, TX.
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Zach Buie works as a trumpet performer and teacher in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he is pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree at The University of Utah School of Music. He holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Music from Baylor University. Zach has performed extensively throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, and Central America in venues such as the Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas, Cadogan Hall in London, Auditorio de Zaragoza in Spain, and Lincoln Theater in Napa Valley among others. He can be heard on numerous CD's with various labels in classical, jazz, alternative, rock, soul, and funk styles. In his most recent recording project, Zach sat as principal trumpet for the University of Utah Wind Ensemble's premiere of David Maslanka's Symphony No. 10. He is on the premier recording of John Corigliano's Circus Maximus written for the University of Texas Wind Ensemble, which was featured on NPR, at Carnegie Hall, and other performances across the United States and Europe. Zach also premiered and recorded Joseph Turrin's first opera, The Scarecrow, in 2006. He currently performs with the Utah Symphony Orchestra, Macao Orchestra in China, and the Helena Symphony in Montana. Recent solo appearances have included the Arutiunian Concerto with the Utah Philharmonia, Hovahaness' Prayer of St. Gregory with the Sul Ross State University Wind Ensemble (Texas), multiple world premieres of new works for solo trumpet, and solo recitals at various Chamber Music Series. Zach served as third trumpet of the Round Rock Symphony from 2009-2014 and the Waco Symphony from 2007-2009. |
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He has also performed with orchestras in Austin, Brazos Valley, San Antonio, San Salvador, and Longview, as well as The Dallas Winds, Imperial Brass of Dallas, Utah Festival Opera, Utah Metropolitan Ballet, Salt Lake Choral Artists, Utah Wind Symphony, East Texas Symphonic Band, Osmond Chapman Orchestra, Terry Cavanagh & the Alpine Express, The Phoenix Jazz & Swing Band, Flyjack, and the Jack Melick Big Band. Zach has shared the stage with artists such as Ben Folds, Phil Smith, David Osmond, Allen Vizzutti, Anton Nell, Clay Walker, Joe Alessi, The Walkmen, Ralna English, Hedda Layne, MGMT, and Carly Wolf.
From 2010 to 2014, Zach performed and toured with Soul Track Mind, a 7 piece original soul/funk outfit based in Austin. He was featured on three of their albums while being recognized by The New York Times Magazine and The Huffington Post as leaders in the resurgence of soul music. This project led to performances at South by Southwest Music Festival, Wakarusa Music Festival, and countless venues from Atlanta to Los Angeles.
Zach Buie is on the faculty of Western Wyoming College where he has conducted the Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensemble, and currently teaches applied brass. He also teaches courses in brass pedagogy and literature at the University of Utah, in addition to coaching brass sectionals and chamber ensembles. Zach held a similar position at Baylor University where he taught applied trumpet lessons as a graduate assistant to Professor Wiff Rudd. In recent years, Zach led a public school band program including junior high and high school ensembles in Marfa, Texas. He has presented brass masterclasses at numerous schools throughout the U.S., China, and Latin America. He recently led clinics on brass pedagogy at the University of Idaho and the College of Southern Idaho for the Idaho Bandmasters Association and the Idaho Music Educators Association. As a member on the Board of Directors for the Chamber Music Society of Salt Lake City, Zach is leading their new educational outreach program to bring chamber music performances and clinics to local schools.
While in Austin, Zach maintained a private studio of nearly fifty students, and now teaches privately in the Salt Lake City area. His students have been accepted into the Texas All-State concert bands and jazz band, the Korean Summer Youth Orchestra, The National Trumpet Competition, and into the music schools of Northwestern University, Oberlin Conservatory, the University of Texas, the University of Utah, Boise State University, and Utah State University. Zach was awarded a Teaching Fellowship in 2017 with the MusAidorganization. This opportunity took him to El Salvador for two weeks where he taught lessons, led group rehearsals, and performed alongside El Sistema students. Zach is a member of the National Association for Music Education and the International Trumpet Guild. His principal teachers include Travis Peterson, Tim Andersen, Chris Carrillo, Ray Sasaki, and Wiff Rudd.
From 2010 to 2014, Zach performed and toured with Soul Track Mind, a 7 piece original soul/funk outfit based in Austin. He was featured on three of their albums while being recognized by The New York Times Magazine and The Huffington Post as leaders in the resurgence of soul music. This project led to performances at South by Southwest Music Festival, Wakarusa Music Festival, and countless venues from Atlanta to Los Angeles.
Zach Buie is on the faculty of Western Wyoming College where he has conducted the Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensemble, and currently teaches applied brass. He also teaches courses in brass pedagogy and literature at the University of Utah, in addition to coaching brass sectionals and chamber ensembles. Zach held a similar position at Baylor University where he taught applied trumpet lessons as a graduate assistant to Professor Wiff Rudd. In recent years, Zach led a public school band program including junior high and high school ensembles in Marfa, Texas. He has presented brass masterclasses at numerous schools throughout the U.S., China, and Latin America. He recently led clinics on brass pedagogy at the University of Idaho and the College of Southern Idaho for the Idaho Bandmasters Association and the Idaho Music Educators Association. As a member on the Board of Directors for the Chamber Music Society of Salt Lake City, Zach is leading their new educational outreach program to bring chamber music performances and clinics to local schools.
While in Austin, Zach maintained a private studio of nearly fifty students, and now teaches privately in the Salt Lake City area. His students have been accepted into the Texas All-State concert bands and jazz band, the Korean Summer Youth Orchestra, The National Trumpet Competition, and into the music schools of Northwestern University, Oberlin Conservatory, the University of Texas, the University of Utah, Boise State University, and Utah State University. Zach was awarded a Teaching Fellowship in 2017 with the MusAidorganization. This opportunity took him to El Salvador for two weeks where he taught lessons, led group rehearsals, and performed alongside El Sistema students. Zach is a member of the National Association for Music Education and the International Trumpet Guild. His principal teachers include Travis Peterson, Tim Andersen, Chris Carrillo, Ray Sasaki, and Wiff Rudd.
Chris Clark (BME 2005)
Director of Bands, Hendrick Middle School (Plano, TX)
Director of Bands, Hendrick Middle School (Plano, TX)
Chris Clark was raised in Waco, TX, where he received a Bachelor of Music Education degree with a trumpet emphasis from Baylor University. Chris also earned a Master of Jazz Studies from DePaul University in Chicago where he studied Jazz Composition with Thomas Matta. Chris has also been fortunate enough to study trumpet with Barry, Hopper, Bob Lark, Wiff Rudd, Alex Parker, Tim Coffman, Bob Palmieri, and Brent Turney. As a believer in that we should be life-long learners, Chris still contacts top composers for direction and tutelage. To name a few, he would like to thank Paul Baker, Fred Sturm, and Steve Wiest.
Chris Clark started C3 Compositions in 2014 with the goal to provide great music that can be attained at all levels of development. C3 Compositions (named C3 to represent Chris’ initials of CCC) provides educators and musicians alike with swingin’ charts that will sound good regardless of the level of the ensemble! C3 charts can be heard being performed by the C3 Big Band, a professional jazz ensemble that Chris directs in Dallas.
Chris has had many opportunities to perform in both the Dallas and Chicago areas. He has shared the stage with artists such as Bob Mintzer, Jon Faddis, Wycliffe Gordon, Jon Metzger, Nicholas Payton, Rufus Reid, and Maria Schneider, among others. Although Chris spends his days teaching middle school band for Plano ISD, he keeps a busy performing schedule in several groups around the Dallas area.
Chris has had the opportunity to compose and arrange music for the Waco Jazz Orchestra, Baylor Jazz Ensemble, DePaul Jazz Orchestras, Dallas area jazz ensembles, several middle school and high school band programs, American Jazz Composers Orchestra and Grammy-Nominated Jazz Icon Phil Woods.
Chris is currently the Director of Bands at Hendrick Middle School in Plano ISD. He lives in the Dallas area with his wife, Christiana, and beautiful children Abby and Noah.
Staff Sergeant Andrew Fremder joined The United States Army Band "Pershing's Own" Ceremonial Band in August of 2013. Recently appointed Third Trumpet with the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra, Drew's musical beginnings are rooted in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. After receiving his Bachelors in Music Performance from Indiana University in 2011 as a Jacobs Scholar, Drew headed South and completed his Masters at Baylor University in the spring of 2013, receiving the Larry Vanlandingham Outstanding Graduate Student Award. As a chamber musician, Andrew and the Baylor University Trumpet Ensemble advanced to the National Trumpet Competition finals twice, earning 1st place in the Spring of 2013.
An avid freelancer and passionate for studio work, Andrew has recorded on several A-list Christian records for Provident Label Group LLC, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, including Tenth Avenue North and Grammy Award winning artist, Chris Tomlin.
While at Baylor University, Andrew performed with the Waco Symphony Orchestra, Imperial Brass, and the Dallas Wind Symphony and attended (as the teaching assistant) the Brevard Music Festival in 2012. His primary teachers include Mark Niehaus, John Rommel, Wiff Rudd, Mark Schubert, and Mark Hughes.
Jacob Garcia (BME 2011)
Education Manager—Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (New Orleans)
Education Manager—Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (New Orleans)
Beginning July 2016, Jacob Garcia serves as the Education Manager for the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra in New Orleans, LA, where he oversees educational outreach programs from Early Explorers Concerts (where K-2 students play on their pre-recorders with the LPO), Young Peoples Concerts (for middle grades), and Band Together (where HS students perform alongside the LPO). The LPO, one of the first musician-run orchestras in the US, features an all-volunteer education committee made up of musicians who collaborate with Jacob for all educational events. From time to time he may have the opportunity to play with the orchestra for pieces requiring a large retinue of trumpets.
Jacob previously worked with Tipitina's Foundation in New Orleans for 10 months, and he taught band, choir, and theatre for four years at Hillsboro ISD in Hillsboro, TX. He was humbled to be present when his HS students earned their first sweepstakes in nearly 40 years, and brought his JH students to UIL contest where they earned their first division I in nearly 20.
Jacob studied trumpet with Wiff Rudd, Alex Parker, and Mark Schubert at Baylor, where he was a member of the Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensembles, and the Baylor University Golden Wave Band. He was active in the Beta Alpha chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi, serving as Vice President in the Spring of 2010.
Jacob is a member of St. Charles Avenue Baptist Church, where he sings in the choir and occasionally plays the organ. Originally from Albuquerque, NM, Jacob studied trumpet with Larry Case and Jon Danté. He has been enjoying the wonderful musical and culinary culture of New Orleans, though he doesn't dare ask why crawfish are called "mudbugs."
Jacob previously worked with Tipitina's Foundation in New Orleans for 10 months, and he taught band, choir, and theatre for four years at Hillsboro ISD in Hillsboro, TX. He was humbled to be present when his HS students earned their first sweepstakes in nearly 40 years, and brought his JH students to UIL contest where they earned their first division I in nearly 20.
Jacob studied trumpet with Wiff Rudd, Alex Parker, and Mark Schubert at Baylor, where he was a member of the Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensembles, and the Baylor University Golden Wave Band. He was active in the Beta Alpha chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi, serving as Vice President in the Spring of 2010.
Jacob is a member of St. Charles Avenue Baptist Church, where he sings in the choir and occasionally plays the organ. Originally from Albuquerque, NM, Jacob studied trumpet with Larry Case and Jon Danté. He has been enjoying the wonderful musical and culinary culture of New Orleans, though he doesn't dare ask why crawfish are called "mudbugs."
Oscar Garcia-Montoya (BM 2001)
Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra
Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra
Originally from San Ramon, Costa Rica, Oscar Garcia-Montoya joined the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra trumpet section in the 2008-09 season. Prior to coming to Fort Worth, he held a two-year position as principal trumpet with both the Florida Grand Opera Orchestra and Miami City Ballet Orchestra. He completed a prestigious three-year New World Symphony fellowship under the direction of Michael Tilson Thomas in 2006.
In recent years, he has also had engagements as guest principal trumpet with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra and Palm Beach Opera Orchestra. Oscar has participated in and performed at various summer music festivals, including the Tanglewood Music Center, Spoleto Music Festival, National Orchestral Institute, Cantieri Internazionale di Musica in Italy, American Wind Symphony, and Youth Orchestra of the Americas (FOSJA) in Puerto Rico. As a soloist, he has been featured with the New World Symphony Orchestra and Brampton Symphony Orchestra. He won first place at the National Trumpet Competition (ensemble category—Rice) and the Medalla de Oro Solo Competition in San Jose, Costa Rica.
In addition to his orchestral work, Oscar has performed with the New World Symphony Brass Quintet and the Baylor Brass and is currently a member of the Brazos Brass. He has a master's degree from Rice University and a bachelor's degree from Baylor University. His notable teachers have included Armando Ghitalla, James Wilt, and Marie Speziale. Oscar studied with Barry Hopper while attending Baylor.
In recent years, he has also had engagements as guest principal trumpet with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra and Palm Beach Opera Orchestra. Oscar has participated in and performed at various summer music festivals, including the Tanglewood Music Center, Spoleto Music Festival, National Orchestral Institute, Cantieri Internazionale di Musica in Italy, American Wind Symphony, and Youth Orchestra of the Americas (FOSJA) in Puerto Rico. As a soloist, he has been featured with the New World Symphony Orchestra and Brampton Symphony Orchestra. He won first place at the National Trumpet Competition (ensemble category—Rice) and the Medalla de Oro Solo Competition in San Jose, Costa Rica.
In addition to his orchestral work, Oscar has performed with the New World Symphony Brass Quintet and the Baylor Brass and is currently a member of the Brazos Brass. He has a master's degree from Rice University and a bachelor's degree from Baylor University. His notable teachers have included Armando Ghitalla, James Wilt, and Marie Speziale. Oscar studied with Barry Hopper while attending Baylor.
Adam Gautille works as a freelance musician in Boston, Massachusetts. He received his Bachelor of Music degree from Baylor University in 2010 and his Masters in trumpet performance at Boston University in 2013.
While attending Baylor University, Adam studied under the direction of Wiff Rudd for classical trumpet performance and under Alex Parker for Jazz arranging and composition. During his time at Baylor, Adam performed in the symphonic band, wind ensemble, symphony orchestra, both jazz ensembles, several jazz combos and numerous brass and mixed chamber groups.
In 2008, Adam competed as a soloist in the National Trumpet Competition and placed in the Finals with the Pakhmutova Trumpet Concerto. He also was accepted in a competitive masterclass at Northwestern University with Barbara Butler and Charlie Geyer. The following year, Adam was a semifinalist in the solo division and transcribed the Boheme Sextet (1st movement) for trumpet ensemble, and Baylor’s first ever entry as a trumpet ensemble placed 4th overall in the National Trumpet competition. In 2010, Adam was a semi-finalist in the solo and ensemble division with his arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s Finale from the 4th symphony.
In 2011, Adam took a year off and studied under Ryan Anthony, Principal of the Dallas Symphony, while also teaching a large private studio at Coppell High School and Middle School North. During this time, Adam started to get into some of the Dallas freelancing scene, performing with Imperial Brass and also performing the Vivaldi Gloria with the Fort Worth Chamber Ensemble.
Adam attended Boston University in 2012 where he studied under Terry Everson. During Adams last semester at Boston University he studied under Michael Martin and Tom Rolfs of the Boston Symphony. He also studied orchestral techniques under the tutelage of Peter Chapman, former 2nd trumpet in the Boston Symphony. Both years at Boston University, Adam was a semi-finalist as a soloist in the National Trumpet competition. In 2012, Adam was a finalist in the Boston University Concerto Competition with the Desenclos Concerto. He also was named an alternate for the Tanglewood Festival run by the Boston Symphony. In 2013 Adam was the only brass soloist in the finals of the BU Concerto Competition with the Haydn Concerto.
A fresh graduate from Boston University, Adam has wasted no time to break into the Boston freelancing scene, performing with the Longwood Symphony, several professional brass quintets, at the Peabody Essex Museum with a modern chamber group and several other local engagements. Adam most recently won a sub position with the Cape Ann Symphony and will start performing as their 3rd trumpet in September. The newest project on the horizon for Adam is his first Classical Trumpet CD which will be a collaboration with Justin Blackwell, an organist working in Boston.
While attending Baylor University, Adam studied under the direction of Wiff Rudd for classical trumpet performance and under Alex Parker for Jazz arranging and composition. During his time at Baylor, Adam performed in the symphonic band, wind ensemble, symphony orchestra, both jazz ensembles, several jazz combos and numerous brass and mixed chamber groups.
In 2008, Adam competed as a soloist in the National Trumpet Competition and placed in the Finals with the Pakhmutova Trumpet Concerto. He also was accepted in a competitive masterclass at Northwestern University with Barbara Butler and Charlie Geyer. The following year, Adam was a semifinalist in the solo division and transcribed the Boheme Sextet (1st movement) for trumpet ensemble, and Baylor’s first ever entry as a trumpet ensemble placed 4th overall in the National Trumpet competition. In 2010, Adam was a semi-finalist in the solo and ensemble division with his arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s Finale from the 4th symphony.
In 2011, Adam took a year off and studied under Ryan Anthony, Principal of the Dallas Symphony, while also teaching a large private studio at Coppell High School and Middle School North. During this time, Adam started to get into some of the Dallas freelancing scene, performing with Imperial Brass and also performing the Vivaldi Gloria with the Fort Worth Chamber Ensemble.
Adam attended Boston University in 2012 where he studied under Terry Everson. During Adams last semester at Boston University he studied under Michael Martin and Tom Rolfs of the Boston Symphony. He also studied orchestral techniques under the tutelage of Peter Chapman, former 2nd trumpet in the Boston Symphony. Both years at Boston University, Adam was a semi-finalist as a soloist in the National Trumpet competition. In 2012, Adam was a finalist in the Boston University Concerto Competition with the Desenclos Concerto. He also was named an alternate for the Tanglewood Festival run by the Boston Symphony. In 2013 Adam was the only brass soloist in the finals of the BU Concerto Competition with the Haydn Concerto.
A fresh graduate from Boston University, Adam has wasted no time to break into the Boston freelancing scene, performing with the Longwood Symphony, several professional brass quintets, at the Peabody Essex Museum with a modern chamber group and several other local engagements. Adam most recently won a sub position with the Cape Ann Symphony and will start performing as their 3rd trumpet in September. The newest project on the horizon for Adam is his first Classical Trumpet CD which will be a collaboration with Justin Blackwell, an organist working in Boston.
Rachelle Isaacson (BME 2008)
Assistant Director of Bands, Cinco Ranch Junior High School
Assistant Director of Bands, Cinco Ranch Junior High School
Rachelle Isaacson is in her sixth year as a music educator and in her second year as assistant director of bands at Cinco Ranch Junior High School. Rachelle teaches all first year brass classes, conducts the CRJH Symphonic Band and assists with the CRJH Concert and Honors bands.
Rachelle grew up in the Houston area and was a member of the Dulles Middle School and High School Band under the direction of Lisa Stiles, Joe Pruitt, and Bill Duggan. She credits her high school band director, Bill Duggan, for helping her become an 2003 All State Musician and encouraging her to pursue music education.
Upon graduation, she began studying music education at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, where she studied trumpet under Wiff Rudd and conducting with Dr. Eric Wilson. Rachelle was drum major of the Golden Wave Marching Band and a member of the jazz band for her entire time at Baylor. She was also a member of Mu Phi Epsilon. In 2008 she received the outstanding Music Educator award from the Baylor University School of Music.
Prior to her appointment at CRJH, Rachelle taught band grades 6-12 in Stafford, Texas. Under her direction, the 2011 Stafford Middle School Symphonic Band achieved their first Texas U.I.L. Sweepstakes Award in school history and followed with another 2012. In joining the Cinco Ranch team, Rachelle has been blessed beyond belief and is overjoyed to be surrounded by the incredible staff, students, and parents and is eagerly looking forward to the future.
Rachelle is married to her high school sweetheart, Matt, who she met years ago sitting in the middle school band sectionals. She is also a mother to the most incredible three year old son, Owen, and gave birth to their daughter Audrey on July 11, 2013 (husband Matt's birthday, too!)—amazing gifts from God.
Kyle Koronka (BM 2004)
Second Trumpet—Austin Symphony
Applied Trumpet—Southwestern University, Trinity University
kylekoronka.com
Second Trumpet—Austin Symphony
Applied Trumpet—Southwestern University, Trinity University
kylekoronka.com
Kyle Koronka enjoys a multifaceted career as a performer and music educator. In 2014, Kyle joined the Austin Symphony Orchestra as Second Trumpet. He is on the faculty of Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas where he teaches Applied Trumpet. Prior to joining the faculty at Southwestern, he served on the faculty of Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. He has also instructed courses at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and at the University of Texas at Austin. Kyle Koronka is a Yamaha Performing Artist.
Kyle has recently performed with the Round Rock Symphony, Waco Symphony, Abilene Philharmonic and Brazos Valley Symphony. He is a member of the Southwestern Faculty Brass Trio and Austin City Brass Quintet, through which he performs on numerous musical outreach concerts each year in local schools. Kyle is an active soloist and recitalist. In 2013, he appeared as soloist with the Trinity University Symphony Orchestra, performing Concerto for Trumpet by Alexander Arutunian. He also appeared as a soloist with the Trinity University Symphonic Wind Ensemble that year. Recently, Kyle collaborated with trombonist Martin McCain on his album Shades, performing Pastorale by Eric Ewazen. Shades is available on the Kairoi Music label.
Other activities include performances with the San Antonio Brass, Austin Symphony Brass Quintet, University of Texas Faculty Brass Quintet, Baylor Brass Quintet, Peoria Symphony, Champaign-Urbana Symphony, and Waco Lyric Opera. He has attended the Brevard Music Center, Hot Springs Music Festival, and Haus Marteau Brass Festival in Lichtenberg, Germany. Kyle recorded orchestral works of Louis Moreau Gottschalk with the Hot Springs Festival Orchestra for the Naxos Label in 2006. He also performed as Principal Trumpet with the Baylor Symphony Orchestra for the PBS television production Christmas at Baylor.
Kyle has completed a Bachelor of Music degree from Baylor University, where he received the Donald I. Moore Award for Outstanding Senior Instrumentalist. He earned a Master of Music degree from the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University, where he was recipient of the Armando Ghitalla Memorial Scholarship. At the University of Texas at Austin, he earned a Doctor of Musical Arts degree, while serving as Graduate Teaching Assistant. His primary teachers include Ray Sasaki, Marie Speziale, Wiff Rudd, Dr. Michael Ewald and Barry Hopper.
Kyle and his wife, Kathryn, live in Round Rock, Texas, with their daughter, Kaitlyn, and two dogs, Scout and Molly.
Kyle has recently performed with the Round Rock Symphony, Waco Symphony, Abilene Philharmonic and Brazos Valley Symphony. He is a member of the Southwestern Faculty Brass Trio and Austin City Brass Quintet, through which he performs on numerous musical outreach concerts each year in local schools. Kyle is an active soloist and recitalist. In 2013, he appeared as soloist with the Trinity University Symphony Orchestra, performing Concerto for Trumpet by Alexander Arutunian. He also appeared as a soloist with the Trinity University Symphonic Wind Ensemble that year. Recently, Kyle collaborated with trombonist Martin McCain on his album Shades, performing Pastorale by Eric Ewazen. Shades is available on the Kairoi Music label.
Other activities include performances with the San Antonio Brass, Austin Symphony Brass Quintet, University of Texas Faculty Brass Quintet, Baylor Brass Quintet, Peoria Symphony, Champaign-Urbana Symphony, and Waco Lyric Opera. He has attended the Brevard Music Center, Hot Springs Music Festival, and Haus Marteau Brass Festival in Lichtenberg, Germany. Kyle recorded orchestral works of Louis Moreau Gottschalk with the Hot Springs Festival Orchestra for the Naxos Label in 2006. He also performed as Principal Trumpet with the Baylor Symphony Orchestra for the PBS television production Christmas at Baylor.
Kyle has completed a Bachelor of Music degree from Baylor University, where he received the Donald I. Moore Award for Outstanding Senior Instrumentalist. He earned a Master of Music degree from the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University, where he was recipient of the Armando Ghitalla Memorial Scholarship. At the University of Texas at Austin, he earned a Doctor of Musical Arts degree, while serving as Graduate Teaching Assistant. His primary teachers include Ray Sasaki, Marie Speziale, Wiff Rudd, Dr. Michael Ewald and Barry Hopper.
Kyle and his wife, Kathryn, live in Round Rock, Texas, with their daughter, Kaitlyn, and two dogs, Scout and Molly.
Tom Madeja (MM 2006)
Artistic Director—Nu Directions Chamber Brass, Founder—Chicago Metamorphosis Orchestra Project
tjmadeja.com
Artistic Director—Nu Directions Chamber Brass, Founder—Chicago Metamorphosis Orchestra Project
tjmadeja.com
Thomas Madeja is an experienced director, performer, producer, composer, and teaching artist. After earning a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Illinois and a Master of Music degree from Baylor University, he began his career in Philadelphia where he was soon in high demand both as a trumpet player and teaching artist.
In the fall of 2010, Tom relocated to Chicago, where he joined the faculty of the People’s Music School. He recently held the position of Nucleo Director for the YOURS Project in Logan Square, a community youth orchestra program designed to affect positive social change.
In the spring of 2013, Tom founded the Chicago Metamorphosis Orchestra Project to address the growing need of social art and music programs in Chicago’s urban communities. ChiMOP provides several social and educational initiatives in the form of multifaceted community youth orchestra projects throughout the city. These projects are unique to the communities served and employ the exceptionally talented professional teaching artists living in these communities as faculty and staff.
In addition to his work with ChiMOP, Tom is also the Executive Director of TJMadeja Music, LLC and the Artistic Director, trumpeter, and composer in residence of Nu Directions Chamber Brass. He continues to teach his private trumpet studio, tour with Nu Directions Chamber Brass, and perform regularly with his trio as well as other local jazz groups, chamber ensembles, and symphony orchestras.
In the fall of 2010, Tom relocated to Chicago, where he joined the faculty of the People’s Music School. He recently held the position of Nucleo Director for the YOURS Project in Logan Square, a community youth orchestra program designed to affect positive social change.
In the spring of 2013, Tom founded the Chicago Metamorphosis Orchestra Project to address the growing need of social art and music programs in Chicago’s urban communities. ChiMOP provides several social and educational initiatives in the form of multifaceted community youth orchestra projects throughout the city. These projects are unique to the communities served and employ the exceptionally talented professional teaching artists living in these communities as faculty and staff.
In addition to his work with ChiMOP, Tom is also the Executive Director of TJMadeja Music, LLC and the Artistic Director, trumpeter, and composer in residence of Nu Directions Chamber Brass. He continues to teach his private trumpet studio, tour with Nu Directions Chamber Brass, and perform regularly with his trio as well as other local jazz groups, chamber ensembles, and symphony orchestras.
Manuel (Manny) Muñoz (BM 2013)
Freelance Artist, Washington, D.C.; Salvation Army's "Southern Territorial Band"
manuelrmunoz.com
Freelance Artist, Washington, D.C.; Salvation Army's "Southern Territorial Band"
manuelrmunoz.com
Manuel (Manny) Muñoz is a freelance trumpeter and educator living in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area with his wife Sarah. Manny earned his Bachelors of Music from Baylor University in 2013 where he studied under Wiff Rudd, Alex Parker, and Mark Schubert.
Manny grew up in Austin, Texas around great music and friends. He first learned to buzz a cornet mouthpiece and read music at his church, The Salvation Army. During middle school and high school Manny studied under Bernie Nero, the former Principal trumpet player of the Austin Symphony Orchestra. While at S.F. Austin High School, Manny placed into the Texas All-State Band and Jazz Bands for three years. He was greatly influenced by his teacher Tonia Mathews, who directed the Austin High Jazz Ensemble that competed at the Essentially Ellington Competition in New York City. Manny also briefly studied with Ray Sasaki at the University of Texas before beginning his college auditions.
In 2009, Manny was accepted to Baylor University with academic and music scholarships. At Baylor, he performed with the Baylor Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Concert Orchestra, Brass Quintets, Jazz Quintet, and the Baylor Gold Trumpet Ensemble. Some highlights of his time at Baylor include winning the National Trumpet Competition Ensemble Division in 2011 and 2013, performing at the National CBDNA Conference in Greensboro, NC with the Baylor Wind Ensemble, touring across Texas with the “Presidents Own” Baylor Jazz Combo, performing alongside famous jazz artists like Terell Stafford, Ignacio Berroa, Rufus Reid, Joel Frahm, Jim Cullum, Joey Tartell, and Michael Weiss, and being a member of the Baylor Trumpet Studio.
Manny is very active with Salvation Army music programs across the world. In Texas he was a often a featured soloist of the youth brass band ‘Texas Brass’ from 2004 to 2013. He is currently a member of the 'Southern Territorial Band', the premiere brass band of the Salvation Army USA South. His involvement with Salvation Army music programs has allowed him to travel as a performer and educator across the world to places such as Buenos Aires, Fiji, Turks and Caicos, Trinidad and Tobago, Mexico City, and across the U.S.
Chelsea graduated from Southern Methodist University with a Masters in Trumpet Performance and is now pursuing the Performer's Diploma under Tom Booth, assistant principal of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. She performs with the Meadows Symphony Orchestra, the Meadows Wind Ensemble, the contemporary music ensemble SYZYGY, and the Graduate Brass Quintet. She has had the opportunity during her time at SMU to play for the trumpet section and brass principals of the DSO. In March of 2013, Chelsea competed in the Graduate Solo Division of the National Trumpet Competition. She will be returning to SMU in the fall of 2013 to begin work on a Performer's Diploma.
Chelsea attended Baylor University and studied under Wiff Rudd for 4 years. During this time, she was involved in the Baylor University Wind Ensemble, the Baylor Symphony Orchestra, the Baylor Jazz Ensemble, and won a position in the Graduate Brass quintet her junior year. She was asked on several occasions to perform in masterclasses for some of the top professionals in the trumpet field, including Phil Smith, Ronald Romm, Ray Mase, Kevin Cobb, William Pfund, Ray Sasaki, and Allan Dean, just to name a few. While at Baylor, Chelsea competed with her fellow trumpet players in the National Trumpet Competition. In 2009, the Baylor Trumpet Ensemble placed 4th in the company of The Juilliard School, Northwestern, and Grand Valley State while in 2011, the ensemble placed first overall. She was also a semi-finalist in 2010 and 2011 for the Undergraduate Solo Division. With the Baylor Wind Ensemble, Chelsea had the opportunity to perform at TMEA, CBDNA, and numerous schools around the state of Texas on regional tours. In the Baylor Symphony, Chelsea was named the Gaunt Endowed Principal Chair for the 2010-2011 season and had the opportunity to play with the Baylor Chamber Orchestra abroad in brief tour of Belgium. Other accolades received during her time at Baylor include the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Musical Performance, 2-time finalist of the Baylor Concerto Competition, as well as featured performances in the Dean’s Honor Concert and Baylor University’s Commencement Ceremony.
Chelsea was born and raised in the Dallas area. She began playing the trumpet at the age of 11 in Grand Prairie, Texas. In high school, Chelsea was deeply involved in her bands’ activities as a student leader, both in the marching bands and concert bands. She attended South Grand Prairie High School for 2 years and transferred to Berkner High School, graduating in 2007. Chelsea competed in the Texas 5A All-State competition, and was an All-Stater 3 years in a row, placing 4th chair overall her last 2 years. It was in the middle of high school that she began studying with Steve Fitts, a founding member of the Dallas Wind Symphony. Under his tutelage, he helped direct her down the path to become a college musician.
Chelsea attended Baylor University and studied under Wiff Rudd for 4 years. During this time, she was involved in the Baylor University Wind Ensemble, the Baylor Symphony Orchestra, the Baylor Jazz Ensemble, and won a position in the Graduate Brass quintet her junior year. She was asked on several occasions to perform in masterclasses for some of the top professionals in the trumpet field, including Phil Smith, Ronald Romm, Ray Mase, Kevin Cobb, William Pfund, Ray Sasaki, and Allan Dean, just to name a few. While at Baylor, Chelsea competed with her fellow trumpet players in the National Trumpet Competition. In 2009, the Baylor Trumpet Ensemble placed 4th in the company of The Juilliard School, Northwestern, and Grand Valley State while in 2011, the ensemble placed first overall. She was also a semi-finalist in 2010 and 2011 for the Undergraduate Solo Division. With the Baylor Wind Ensemble, Chelsea had the opportunity to perform at TMEA, CBDNA, and numerous schools around the state of Texas on regional tours. In the Baylor Symphony, Chelsea was named the Gaunt Endowed Principal Chair for the 2010-2011 season and had the opportunity to play with the Baylor Chamber Orchestra abroad in brief tour of Belgium. Other accolades received during her time at Baylor include the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Musical Performance, 2-time finalist of the Baylor Concerto Competition, as well as featured performances in the Dean’s Honor Concert and Baylor University’s Commencement Ceremony.
Chelsea was born and raised in the Dallas area. She began playing the trumpet at the age of 11 in Grand Prairie, Texas. In high school, Chelsea was deeply involved in her bands’ activities as a student leader, both in the marching bands and concert bands. She attended South Grand Prairie High School for 2 years and transferred to Berkner High School, graduating in 2007. Chelsea competed in the Texas 5A All-State competition, and was an All-Stater 3 years in a row, placing 4th chair overall her last 2 years. It was in the middle of high school that she began studying with Steve Fitts, a founding member of the Dallas Wind Symphony. Under his tutelage, he helped direct her down the path to become a college musician.
A classically trained trumpet player and most recently a lyrical high note specialist and cross-over artist, Elizabeth enjoys performing and teaching in a variety of venues in the Lone Star State. A native of Annapolis, Maryland, Elizabeth grew up under the tutelage of artists in the premier military ensembles. Elizabeth began playing trumpet at the age of 13 and within two years was chosen to be a featured soloist with the Sound of America Honor Band and Chorus where she toured 13-countries. This elite group, composed of high school and college students chosen by competitive auditions across the U.S., boasts some of the most visible artists on today’s music scene. Within only 4-years of trumpet study, Elizabeth won all-state positions in the wind band and jazz fields respectively as well as garnering many awards and scholarships including the Washington Post Music and Dance Scholarship, and the Semper Fidelis Marine Band Award.
Upon acceptance of the John Haynie trumpet scholarship, Elizabeth went on to pursue her undergraduate studies at the University of North Texas where she mentored with Professor John Holt. In addition to performing in UNTs top ensembles, Elizabeth distinguished herself as a soloist by performing Philip Sparks Manhattan with the UNT Brass Band under the direction of Dr. Brian Bowman. As a crowning achievement in 2009, Elizabeth was voted by UNT’s brass faculty to receive the award for Most Outstanding Undergraduate in Brass. Before graduation Elizabeth studied abroad for a semester in the Czech Republic at the Janáček Academy of Music and Performing Arts in Brno where she studied trumpet performance and orchestral repertoire. In addition, she researched and documented her “Peroutka” family history and along with her father was able to discover and visit the ancestral home of her great, great grandparents in a small village just outside of Prague. As a student of Wiff Rudd, Elizabeth went on to pursue her Master’s in Music at Baylor University where she further distinguished herself in chamber music studies by placing 1st and 3rd in the National Trumpet Competition, ensemble division in 2011 and 2012.
National Trumpet Competition, 2012 Elizabeth now makes her home in Huntsville, Texas where she enjoys a vibrant music career in performance, recording, and education. She has performed with the Dallas Opera Orchestra and is a current member of Imperial Brass, Encore Brass, and is Principal Trumpet with the Dallas-Irving Lyric Stage. She also teaches privately in the schools of Huntsville, Conroe and the Woodlands. Elizabeth is a guest soloist on the newly released CD, “Spotlight” with the Sam Houston State University Jazz Ensemble where she plays the Wayne Bergeron high-note feature, “O Holy Night.” Her newest collaborative project with her husband, Aric Schneller, “I Love Being Here with You” is slated for release in the spring of 2014. Elizabeth can also be heard on the latest 2014 CD of the Grammy Award Winning Texas Boy’s Choir. Having achieved an appreciation of the benefits between physical fitness and music, Elizabeth is a Qualified Instructor for P90X home fitness programs as well as being an avid runner and cyclist. Elizabeth is a Yamaha Performing Artist.
Upon acceptance of the John Haynie trumpet scholarship, Elizabeth went on to pursue her undergraduate studies at the University of North Texas where she mentored with Professor John Holt. In addition to performing in UNTs top ensembles, Elizabeth distinguished herself as a soloist by performing Philip Sparks Manhattan with the UNT Brass Band under the direction of Dr. Brian Bowman. As a crowning achievement in 2009, Elizabeth was voted by UNT’s brass faculty to receive the award for Most Outstanding Undergraduate in Brass. Before graduation Elizabeth studied abroad for a semester in the Czech Republic at the Janáček Academy of Music and Performing Arts in Brno where she studied trumpet performance and orchestral repertoire. In addition, she researched and documented her “Peroutka” family history and along with her father was able to discover and visit the ancestral home of her great, great grandparents in a small village just outside of Prague. As a student of Wiff Rudd, Elizabeth went on to pursue her Master’s in Music at Baylor University where she further distinguished herself in chamber music studies by placing 1st and 3rd in the National Trumpet Competition, ensemble division in 2011 and 2012.
National Trumpet Competition, 2012 Elizabeth now makes her home in Huntsville, Texas where she enjoys a vibrant music career in performance, recording, and education. She has performed with the Dallas Opera Orchestra and is a current member of Imperial Brass, Encore Brass, and is Principal Trumpet with the Dallas-Irving Lyric Stage. She also teaches privately in the schools of Huntsville, Conroe and the Woodlands. Elizabeth is a guest soloist on the newly released CD, “Spotlight” with the Sam Houston State University Jazz Ensemble where she plays the Wayne Bergeron high-note feature, “O Holy Night.” Her newest collaborative project with her husband, Aric Schneller, “I Love Being Here with You” is slated for release in the spring of 2014. Elizabeth can also be heard on the latest 2014 CD of the Grammy Award Winning Texas Boy’s Choir. Having achieved an appreciation of the benefits between physical fitness and music, Elizabeth is a Qualified Instructor for P90X home fitness programs as well as being an avid runner and cyclist. Elizabeth is a Yamaha Performing Artist.
Fernando "Fercho" Rodriquez (MM 2004)
Professor of Trumpet, District University of Bogotá.
Professor of Trumpet, District University of Bogotá.
One of three brothers well established in professional music, Fernando began his masters degree with Wiff Rudd at the University of Arkansas, moving with Rudd to Baylor in 2002. He performed in all of Baylor's major ensembles and was featured with the Baylor Brass on the PBS special, Christmas at Baylor.
Fernando is a performing artist affiliated with Yamaha Latino America and professor of trumpet at the District University of Bogotá. He is one of the co-founders and organizers of the prestigious Concurso y Festival Nacional Inter-Universitario de Trompeta which provides outstanding opportunities for Colombia's many talented young trumpeters and features renowned international trumpet artists.
"Fercho" is a Yamaha Performing Artists and resides in Bogotá with his wife Diana and daughter Isabella.
Fernando is a performing artist affiliated with Yamaha Latino America and professor of trumpet at the District University of Bogotá. He is one of the co-founders and organizers of the prestigious Concurso y Festival Nacional Inter-Universitario de Trompeta which provides outstanding opportunities for Colombia's many talented young trumpeters and features renowned international trumpet artists.
"Fercho" is a Yamaha Performing Artists and resides in Bogotá with his wife Diana and daughter Isabella.
John Timpani (MM 2008)
Assistant Band Director, Clark Middle School, Frisco, Texas
2014 TMEA Honor Band
Assistant Band Director, Clark Middle School, Frisco, Texas
2014 TMEA Honor Band
John is beginning his ninth year of teaching and is currently in his fourth year at Clark Middle School in Frisco, TX. He is responsible for teaching the Concert Band, Beginner Bassoon, Beginner French Horn, Beginner Oboe, Beginner Trumpet and the jazz band. Under his direction, the Concert Band received straight Superior ratings from every judge at UIL concert and sightreading for the first time in its history and have continued to do so for three straight years.
John grew up in Houston and attended all the North Shore schools (elementary, middle and high school). His main teacher, aside from his father, was Jesse Alexander. After graduating, he attended Howard Payne University to earn a duel degree in music education and trumpet performance. While there, he studied trumpet with Dr. Paul DeBoer and jazz with Stephen Goacher. He earned numerous awards while at HPU, but his greatest accomplishment was convincing his wife (then girlfriend) to marry him, but more on that later!
After Howard Payne, they moved to Waco, Texas and John taught in the Waco school system for three years as a band director. Under his leadership, the band at Cesar Chavez Middle School grew from 17 students to 110. He then was given the opportunity to begin his masters degree at Baylor with Wiff Rudd. He also jumped at the chance to study jazz with Alex Parker and took as many jazz classes as the dean would allow him to take. As a graduate assistant, John taught non-major trumpet lessons, co-taught the trumpet methods class, was a student director of the Concert Jazz ensemble and was a member of the Baylor Brass for one year. John qualified as a solo division semi-finalist at the National Trumpet Competition in 2008 and one of his current private students, Christopher Stubblefield, placed 2nd in the competition's Junior Division in 2012.
John has had the great honor of being married to his wife Emily for 10 years, whom he met during the first day of summer band in college. They have three wonderful sons, John Caleb ,David and Stephen and a very hyper dog named Eddie. John is an active member of Stonebriar Community Church and performs with the orchestra, wind symphony and brass choir. He still gets to play professionally, most recently with the Imperial Brass as a member of their large brass ensemble and is also in demand around Texas as a clinician and adjudicator.
John grew up in Houston and attended all the North Shore schools (elementary, middle and high school). His main teacher, aside from his father, was Jesse Alexander. After graduating, he attended Howard Payne University to earn a duel degree in music education and trumpet performance. While there, he studied trumpet with Dr. Paul DeBoer and jazz with Stephen Goacher. He earned numerous awards while at HPU, but his greatest accomplishment was convincing his wife (then girlfriend) to marry him, but more on that later!
After Howard Payne, they moved to Waco, Texas and John taught in the Waco school system for three years as a band director. Under his leadership, the band at Cesar Chavez Middle School grew from 17 students to 110. He then was given the opportunity to begin his masters degree at Baylor with Wiff Rudd. He also jumped at the chance to study jazz with Alex Parker and took as many jazz classes as the dean would allow him to take. As a graduate assistant, John taught non-major trumpet lessons, co-taught the trumpet methods class, was a student director of the Concert Jazz ensemble and was a member of the Baylor Brass for one year. John qualified as a solo division semi-finalist at the National Trumpet Competition in 2008 and one of his current private students, Christopher Stubblefield, placed 2nd in the competition's Junior Division in 2012.
John has had the great honor of being married to his wife Emily for 10 years, whom he met during the first day of summer band in college. They have three wonderful sons, John Caleb ,David and Stephen and a very hyper dog named Eddie. John is an active member of Stonebriar Community Church and performs with the orchestra, wind symphony and brass choir. He still gets to play professionally, most recently with the Imperial Brass as a member of their large brass ensemble and is also in demand around Texas as a clinician and adjudicator.
Gino Villarreal (BM 2002)
US Coast Guard Band
US Coast Guard Band
Chief Musician Gino Villarreal is a native of Rio Grande City, Texas. He received a Bachelor of Music degree from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Prior to joining the US Coast Guard Band in October 2005, he served in the US Military Academy Band at West Point, New York. MUC Villarreal has been a member of the Storm King Brass at West Point, NY; The Imperial Brass in Woodbridge, NJ; the Newburg Symphony in Newburg, NY; and the Waco Symphony in Waco, TX. He has also performed with many different ensembles including The Jazz Knights at West Point, NY; the Symphony of South East Texas in Beaumont, TX; the Dallas Wind Symphony; the Richardson Symphony; the East Texas Symphony in Tyler, TX; and has been a featured soloist with the US Military Academy Band and The Imperial Brass Band. His teachers include Raul Sosa Ornelas, Barry Hopper, Tom Booth, Wiff Rudd, Larry Black, and Robert Sullivan.