Tubist Ross Knight to Debut with Berlin Philharmonic

In December, Scottish tubist Ross Knight will make his debut in the role of second tuba with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. Only 23 years old, Knight received an invitation to audition for the Karajan Academy, which is the Orchestra Academy of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. Knight will hold this appointment for the next two years. Read the full story at 4barsrest.

25th Anniversary of the International Brass Band Summer School

Sun, Sea, and Brass! 25th Anniversary Course

On Sunday, August 2, 2015 the International Brass Band Summer School (IBBSS) was held at the University of Wales, Swansea, which overlooks the majestic panorama of Swansea Bay. Delegates had flown in from the USA, Norway, Sweden, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Ireland, and of course traveled from the widths and breadths of the UK, and even as far as Japan and Tazmania, Australia.

The Course Director was Prof. Nicholas Childs and his Tutors are all internationally recognized. Looking after the cornets were Black Dyke’s Richard Marshall and Chris Turner; the horn tutor was Owen Farr; Euphoniums and Baritones were led by Gary Curtin and David Thornton from Black Dyke and Fodens respectively; Trombones by Brett Baker; and Tubas by Joseph Cook and Matthew Routley.

The aim is to balance a general improvement in overall playing standards with making new like-minded friends, whilst enjoying a little more time in the sun amidst great surroundings. The International Brass Band Summer School also caters to non-participating and non-residential visitors. For those who want to brush up on their brass band skills whilst their partners soak up the sun in a sublime environment, rest assured, this was Christmas in the summer!

With over 120 delegates there were two individual bands, Sovereign and Prestige, enjoying programmes which included special guest and featured composer, Peter Graham and his works Renaissance and Shine as the Light.  The program also featured James Curnow’s Jubilation and Goff Richards' Doyen. There was also a culmination in a massed bands with a grand finale of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture.

The general timetable included individual lessons, playing in small ensembles, and a fun-packed evening in the IBBSS Brass in Concert Entertainment Contest. There was even a Quiz night with a live music section, led by Quizmaster Matthew Routley.

This year saw a new initiative with conducting workshops that covered conducting for beginners to stylistic approaches and contemporary baton techniques.

A highlight of every day was the Evening Recital where one of the Star Tutors would give a breath-taking display of his prowess and a personal insight to himself.

During the week there were trade stands from Trevada, World of Brass and Gramercy Music, and also a special presentation from Rath Trombones.

Next year, the International Brass Band Summer School will welcome Edward Gregson as the guest composer.

After a great week the highlight for the delegates was the Gala Concert, delivered to a packed audience and featuring guest soloists Gary Curtin and Joseph Cook after which was the end-of-course party!

Next year’s IBBSS course will be held from 31st July – 6th August, 2016

For further information please contact IBBSS Administrator, Alison Childs, +44 07802 771735 or email alison4horn@btinternet.com

In Memoriam: Russ Tiede

Dr. Russell Louis Tiede was born January 27, 1929, on a farm outside of Parkston, South Dakota to Solomon (Sam) and Emma Tiede. He attended South Dakota State University, where he received his Bachelor of Science. Upon graduation, he taught music and math at Bridgewater from 1950-1955. He later continued his studies earning his Master of Science degree in Music Education in 1956 and an Ed.D. in Music Education in 1971, both at the University of Illinois. Between his post-graduate studies, Russ taught junior high music in Sioux Falls. The majority of Russ’s career was spent at Millikin University, starting in 1968, continuing to serve for 25 years as chair of the music education department, teaching conducting, music education courses and applied horn and tuba.

His life was dedicated to teaching education and music in public schools and college. One of Russ’s great loves was playing in the faculty brass quintet at Millikin with his musician friends. He also served for many years as the choir director at his church. Russ enjoyed golfing with his wife, fishing with his good friends at Lake Shelbyville and traveling with family every chance he could get. Russell Louis Tiede passed away in his home on May 7, 2015, with his loving wife Janet at his side.

New Hire: Irving Ray

Irving Ray has won a euphonium position with the "Pershing's Own" U.S. Army Ceremonial Band in Washington, D.C. He will begin playing with the band in April 2016. Stationed in Fort Meyer, the U.S. Army Ceremonial Band’s primary mission is to support over 2,000 military funerals each year in Arlington National Cemetery, wreath laying ceremonies by heads of state and other foreign dignitaries at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, monthly retirement parades, special reviews, and arrival and departure honors for foreign dignitaries at the White House and Pentagon. Recent major events include 2009 Presidential Inaugural festivities, the State Funerals of Presidents Ronald Reagan and Gerald R. Ford, ceremonies honoring Her Majesty the Queen of England Elizabeth II during her visit to the United States in May 2007, and nationally televised PBS broadcasts of the National Memorial Day and A Capitol Fourth! concert events with the National Symphony Orchestra. Ray is from from Houston, TX and received all of his musical degrees in Texas. Irving completed his Bachelor of Music Education at Sam Houston State University and his Master of Music in Euphonium Performance at the University of North Texas. He will be completing his Doctorate in Euphonium Performance at the University of North Texas in the Spring of 2016. In addition to having performed across the United States as a former member of the North Texas Euphonium Quartet, Ray is an internationally known soloist and teacher, having been invited each year to Singapore since 2013 with the Wind Bands Association of Singapore, performing as a guest soloist with the Monterrey Symphony Orchestra, and serving as a guest soloist and brass lecturer in South Africa. Some of his greatest musical influences include Frank Troyka, Matthew McInturf, Rex Martin, Demondrae Thurman, and Dr. Brian Bowman.

New Hire: Ryan Schultz

Music Center of the Northwest Executive Director Michael Alstad has announced the appointment of Ryan Schultz to the position of Director of Educational Outreach and Partnerships. Schultz has a diverse career as a performer, educator, and administrator. As Director of Publicity and Associate Director of Operations for the 56th Army Band, he organized, managed, and performed in hundreds of performances during his tenure. After completing his Army Band term, Schultz spent a year in the corporate music business at Sunhawk.com before beginning his tenure as principal tubist with the nationally acclaimed Pacific Northwest Ballet Orchestra and the critically acclaimed Auburn Symphony. From 2000-2015 Schultz was also principal tuba player of the Yakima Symphony Orchestra; in that role he performed extensively throughout Central Washington, was a soloist with the Y.S.O. for educational outreach concerts, and also took his turn directing the orchestra’s educational brass outreach to elementary schools. From 2000-2009, Schultz worked for Music Works Northwest where he served as low brass faculty and in a variety of administrative roles including acting director of the children’s summer camp and founder and co-director of the Bellevue Brass Camp. Schultz also serves on the faculty of the University of Puget Sound, Seattle Pacific University, Lakeside School, Midsummer Musical Retreat, and is a coach for the Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra. Previously, he was on the faculty of Central Washington University and the Lawrence Academy of Music. His students have won numerous awards and top prizes in international, national and other competitions.

New Hire: Alexander Lapins

Dr. Alexander Lapins will serve as the Lecturer of Tuba and Euphonium this year at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. Dr. Lapins will be taking a leave of absence from Northern Arizona University in order to fulfill this lecturer position at UT-Knoxville. His duties include teaching applied lessons, teaching chamber music, and playing in the faculty brass quintet. Dr. Lapins grew up in northern Virginia and earned degrees from James Madison University, the University of Michigan, and Indiana University. He has taught at Northern Arizona University since 2009, and for four years preceding that, he taught at Indiana State University and the University of Indianapolis. He was previously a busy freelancer throughout the Midwest and has been on hundreds of diverse recordings and has performed with many professional orchestras, bands, and chamber groups. Dr. Lapins is a Miraphone artist.

New Hire: David McLemore

Dr. David McLemore is the new full-time Instructor of Tuba and Euphonium at Central Washington University. Beginning in Fall 2015, his responsibilities will include teaching undergraduate and graduate applied tuba and euphonium lessons, low brass methods classes, and music appreciation. He will also rehearse and perform with the faculty brass quintet and conduct the Tuba/Euphonium Choir. Prior to his appointment at CWU, he served as Adjunct Instructor of Music at Young Harris College. McLemore completed his D.M.A. in Tuba Performance at the University of Georgia. Prior to this he earned an M.M. in both Tuba and Chamber Music Performance at the University of Michigan, as well as a B.M. in Tuba Performance from the University of Southern California. His primary tuba teachers include David Zerkel, Fritz Kaenzig, Jim Self, Warren Deck, Norm Pearson, and Richard Pasko. David has enjoyed much success as a soloist, competing and winning prizes in several high-profile solo competitions. He won 1st Prize Tuba Artist at the 2010 International Tuba Euphonium Conference, 1st Prize Tuba Artist at the 2012 Leonard Falcone International Tuba Euphonium Festival, 1st Prize Brass at the 2012 MTNA National Young Artist Solo competition, and more recently 1st Prize Tuba and Grand Prize at the 2014 International Women’s Brass Conference solo competitions. Additionally, David won 3rd prize Tuba at the 2014 Jeju International Brass Competition.

New Hire: Irving Ray

Irving Ray is the new Adjunct Professor of Tuba and Euphonium at Brookhaven College in Farmers Branch, Texas. He will begin teaching at Brookhaven in Fall 2015, and his duties will include teaching tuba and euphonium applied lessons and coaching the low brass chamber ensemble. Irving completed his Bachelor of Music Education (B.M.E.) at Sam Houston State University in 2010 and his Master of Music (M.M.) in Euphonium Performance/Conducting in 2012 at the University of North Texas where he serves as a teaching fellow in the euphonium studio. He is currently finishing his Doctorate of Musical Arts (D.M.A.) in Euphonium Performance/Music Theory at the University of North Texas. Irving is a founding member of the North Texas Euphonium Quartet (NTEQ), an emerging professional ensemble that commissions new works for the euphonium quartet and gives performances across the United States. As a soloist, Irving was a Euphonium Artist finalist at the 2013 Leonard Falcone International Euphonium and Tuba Festival. His primary teachers include Frank Troyka, Dr. Matthew McInturf, Dr. Henry Howey, Don Little, and Dr. Brian Bowman.

New Hire: Vince Kenney

Vince Kenney recently accepted a position as Instructor of Low Brass at East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma. He will begin his appointment in Fall 2015, and his duties will include teaching applied tuba, euphonium, and trombone. In addition to these duties, Vince will continue to serve as Instructor of Music at North Central Texas College and as a Teaching Fellow for the euphonium studio at the University of North Texas. In 2012, Vince completed his degrees in Music Education (B.M.E.) and Euphonium Performance (B.M.) at the University of Illinois. He completed his M.M. in Euphonium Performance at the University of North Texas in 2014 and is currently pursuing his D.M.A. in Euphonium Performance at the same institution. Vince actively tours the country as a part of the North Texas Euphonium Quartet and with this group, is engaged in arranging, commissioning, and premiering new works for euphonium quartet in a variety of musical settings. As a soloist, Vince has been a finalist in numerous national and international competitions, most recently being the bronze medalist of the Euphonium Artist Division of the 2014 Leonard Falcone International Euphonium and Tuba Festival. Vince’s primary teachers include Ed Risinger, Mark Moore, Don Little, and Dr. Brian Bowman.

New Hire: Matthew Hightower

Matthew Hightower is the new Visiting Assistant Professor of Tuba/Euphonium at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. His duties there include teaching applied tuba and euphonium lessons, conducting the tuba/euphonium ensemble, and teaching the low brass methods course. Prior to accepting this position at TAMUK, Hightower was the Adjunct Instructor of Tuba and Brass Chamber Music at Murray State University. He completed a B.M. in Music Education at Murray State University, an M.M. in Tuba Performance at Indiana University, and a D.M.A. in Tuba Performance at The University of Texas at Austin. His primary tuba teachers include Ray Conklin, Daniel Perantoni, and Charles Villarrubia. Some performance highlights include appearances with Austin City Limits Brass Quintet, Bloomington Camerata Orchestra (IN), Columbus Indiana Philharmonic, Evansville Philharmonic, Victoria Symphony (TX), and David Baker’s 21st Century BeBop Band. Hightower is also an award-winning composer. In 2010 he was the recipient of the annual Kentucky Music Educators Association Collegiate Composition Contest prize. His works are published by Potenza Publishing and Cimarron Music Publishing. As a tuba soloist, he was the silver medalist in the Tuba Artist competition at the 2013 Falcone Festival.

New Hire: Jeffrey Meyer

Tubist Jeffrey Meyer recently accepted the position of Director of Bands and Brass Studies at Sul Ross State University, to begin in the Fall of 2015. His recent professional activities include performances with the Orquesta Filharmónica del Estado de Chihuahua, Orquesta Sinfónica de la UACJ, and the Roswell (NM) Symphony Orchestra. His composition Metro Chapultepec, for flute/piccolo and electronics, was recently premiered at the 2015 New York City Electroacoustic Music Festival. Meyer holds a B.M. from the Eastman School of Music, M.M. in Conducting and Tuba from Kent State University, and D.M.A. from the Cleveland Institute of Music. His primary teachers include Don Harry, Craig Knox, John Bottomley, Ron Bishop, and Scott Mendoker.

In Memoriam: David Bragunier

Tubist David Bragunier passed away at home earlier this week. He had been diagnosed with a brain tumor late last year, and in spite of a surgery in December that gave him some more time, his condition worsened over the last few months. Dave was Principal Tuba of the National Symphony Orchestra from 1961 to 2004 and was Personnel Manager from 1974 to 2000. He approached both jobs with love, dedication, and enthusiasm and was a great “war story” teller at Personnel Manager gatherings. Even after retiring, he remained a very active volunteer contributor to the NSO by shepherding the alumni organization, being an archivist, singing in the chorus, and helping in many other ways.

Pictured, L-R: David Bragunier, James Kraft, Milton Stevens, Lorin Maazel, Matthew Guilford, John Huling, and Steven Dunkel (2004)

Photo credit: www.matthewguilford.com

In Memoriam: Tom Walsh

On 2 June 2015 Thomas Walsh passed away. Tom was tubist of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra, a founding member of Blechschaden, and instructor at the Hochschule fuer Musik in Munich. For all that knew him – a great loss as a person, friend, musician and colleague.

A detailed biography will be printed in a future ITEA Journal.

In Memoriam: Herbert Fischbach

Herbert Fischbach, former Stadtmusikdirektor in Klingenthal and production manger of „B & S“ Markneukirchen-Klingenthal, passed away on 10 June at the age of eighty-six. He once said: “Music is my life's fulfillment.” He was well known beyond the boundaries of the Vogtland as an instrument maker, musician, composer, and orchestra leader.

Herbert Fischbach began his lifelong profession as an apprentice at the Sachsen Music Instrument factory in 1946. This was integrated into VEB Blechblas- und Signal-Instrumenten-Fabrik Markneukirchen and is now known worldwide as “B & S” Markneukirchen-Klingenthal. He worked there for forty-seven years in all capacities and was responsible for the development of the “B & S,” “B & S” Perantucci, and “Weltklang” brands.

Herbert Fischbach joined the Klingenthal Stadt Orchester in 1947. In 1980 he assumed musical leadership and in 1991, on the occasion of Klingenthal's 400th Anniversary and the 125th anniversary of the orchestra, was named Stadtmusikdirektor.

In 2012 the Bundesvereinigung Deutscher Musikverbände awarded him their Golden Badge of Honor, with Diamond. When Herbert Fischbach passed away, Klingenthal lost a truly great instrument maker and musician.

A detailed biography will be printed in a future ITEA Journal.

In Memoriam: Robert Jorgensen

We mourn the loss of Robert Jorgensen, former euphonium soloist with The United States Army Field Band and longtime director of bands at The University of Akron. Please visit this link for a story by the Akron Beacon Journal: http://www.ohio.com/news/break-news/community-band-gives-fond-farewells-and-posthumous-performance-to-late-director-robert-jorgensen-1.605627

In Memoriam: Eugene Dowling

Eugene Dowling, principal tubist with the Victoria Symphony and professor at the University of Victoria (British Columbia), recently passed away after a two-year battle with cancer. The Times Colonist newspaper has a nice story about Dowling, which is available at this link: http://www.timescolonist.com/news/local/victoria-s-tuba-king-succumbs-to-cancer-1.1986511

In honor of Dowling's tremendous legacy in the tuba and euphonium community, please consider donating to the Eugene Dowling Scholarship Fund at the University of Victoria. The purpose of this fund is to support and inspire future generations of students passionate about studying tuba or euphonium in UVic's School of Music. For more information, visit this link: https://extrweb.uvic.ca/eugene-dowling-scholarship

Zach Collins Receives Distinguished Faculty Award

Excerpted from a news story in The Indiana Gazette

Four Indiana University of Pennsylvania faculty members have been selected for the 2015 University Senate Distinguished Faculty Awards. Since 1969, IUP has presented these awards to honor faculty members who make significant contributions to the university. Dr. Zach Collins is one of the winners of this prestigious award. Collins is an active musician as a performer and composer. In addition to performing on the IUP campus, he has recently appeared as a soloist with the Johnstown Symphony Orchestra and the IUP Wind Ensemble as well as in solo recitals at the International Tuba Euphonium Conference (ITEC - 2010, 2014), the South Central Regional Tuba Conference (2010), and the Northeast Regional Tuba Euphonium Conference (NERTEC -
2011, 2013, 2015). He is also active as an orchestral and chamber musician throughout Pennsylvania and neighboring states. As a composer, Collins has several of his compositions for brass instruments published by Cimarron Music Press and Eighth Note Publications. His compositions have been performed by various collegiate ensembles at conferences including the Southeast Regional Tuba Conference, NERTEC, and ITEC.

New Hire: Matt Tropman

Dr. Matt Tropman has accepted the position of Assistant Professor of Tuba and Euphonium at the University of Arizona. Matt served as a Lecturer of Tuba and Euphonium at the University of Arizona during the 2014/2015 academic year and will begin as Assistant Professor in August 2015. His duties there include teaching the tuba/euphonium studio and brass methods courses, coaching chamber music, and performing with various faculty and student ensembles. In addition to his role as a college professor, Tropman is an active freelancer, soloist, and chamber musician. His performances have been praised in numerous publications such as the New York Times, which stated, “Tropman makes a serious case for the euphonium as a solo instrument.” Following his early career in the U.S. Marine Band (President’s Own), he has performed on both euphonium and tuba with numerous bands, orchestras, and chamber groups such as the San Francisco Symphony and Detroit Symphony. Dr. Tropman received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Euphonium Performance from the University of Michigan and Arizona State University, respectively, and the Doctor of Musical Arts Degree in Tuba Performance from the University of Michigan.

New Hire: Justin Benavidez

Dr. Justin Benavidez has accepted the position of Interim Assistant Professor of Tuba and Euphonium at Ithaca College and will begin his appointment this fall. His responsibilities will include teaching applied lessons and performing in the faculty brass quintet. He previously served as the Assistant Professor of Tuba and Euphonium at Texas A&M-Kingsville. Dr. Benavidez is the Artist Tuba Faculty at the Round Top Summer Music Festival and was the first tubist to receive both the New Horizons Fellowship and the Orchestral Fellowship at the Aspen Music Festival. He was the recipient of the prestigious Horace H. Rackham Merit Fellowship for doctoral studies at the University of Michigan. As a soloist, he has received numerous awards and was most notably a two-time finalist at the Leonard Falcone Festival Competition. 

UT Knoxville Tuba/Euphonium Vacancy

Following the sudden passing of Kelly Thomas, the University of Tennessee at Knoxville has announced the need for a Lecturer of Tuba and Euphonium. See the full posting for more information.

In Memoriam: Robert (Bob) Rusk

Robert (Bob) Rusk, former tubist of the Milwaukee Symphony and well-known instrument design and repair person, has passed away. See the full obituary here: http://www.palmerfuneralhomes.com/notices/Robert-Rusk

Remembering Arnold Jacobs

June 11, 2015 was the centennial of Arnold Jacobs, former principal tubist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and renowned brass pedagogue. The CSO wrote a nice article about Jacobs' centennial, which you can read at this link: https://csoarchives.wordpress.com/2015/06/04/remembering-arnold-jacobs/

In Memoriam: Kelly Thomas

Our friend and newly elected vice-president/president-elect, Kelly Thomas, passed away very early this morning, June 8, 2015. Our collective thoughts and prayers are with Jana and Kelly and Jana's four children. When I spoke with Jana, I told her that she has our support as she goes through this very difficult time.

Everyone in our Association is aware that Kelly’s passing has several implications for ITEA in the immediate and longer term future. The Executive Committee will meet and discuss those issues after Kelly has been laid to rest, and we will keep everyone informed as we move forward. At this time, however, we all need to stop and take time to reflect on Kelly and his life, lend emotional support to his family, and think on the importance of our own families in our lives and how much we all mean to each other. We are a most fortunate group of people, and each one of us across the Association feels this loss very deeply – which is one of the things that makes our Association so special.


Sincerely,

Jerry Young
President, ITEA

Kent Eshelman Receives Outstanding Professor Award

Dr. Kent Eshelman received an Outstanding Professor Award in teaching from Baylor University. Baylor's president Ken Starr presented him with a certificate and cash award at the spring commencement ceremony in May. Kent has taught tuba and euphonium at Baylor University since 2009, and earlier this year he earned tenure and promotion to Associate Professor.

New Hire: Robert Benton

Dr. Robert Benton has recently accepted the position of Assistant Professor of Low Brass and Music Theory at the University of Nebraska at Kearney and will begin serving in this role in August. At UNK, he will be responsible for teaching all three low brass instruments as well as aural skills and/or music theory. Dr. Benton is moving to Nebraska from Beijing, China, where he was Assistant Principal Euphonium with the Dunshan Symphonic Wind Orchestra. Prior to his time in China, he taught low brass and theory at the University of Windsor (Canada) and Adrian College (Michigan). Dr. Benton is looking forward to the new position, where he will continue his active performance and research agenda, dealing with twentieth-century vocalises and an energetic new-works commissioning program. Dr. Benton received his B.M. from Oakland University, his M.M. from Michigan State University, and his D.M.A. from the University of Michigan. His primary educational influences are Ken Kroesche, Steven Mead, Phil Sinder, and Fritz Kaenzig.

New Hire: Robin Sisk

Robin Sisk will be the Visiting Assistant Professor of Tuba and Euphonium at Missouri Southern State University beginning in Fall 2015. Her duties will include teaching tuba and euphonium, advising, teaching music appreciation, serving on the marching band staff, and collaborating with K-12 public schools. Prior to her appointment at MSSU, Robin served as an adjunct professor at the University of Central Florida, Bethune-Cookman University, Seminole State College, and Daytona State College. As a performer, she has held the positions of Principal E-flat Bass with the Brass Band of Central Florida and Principal Tuba of the Gainesville Orchestra, is a founding member of the world's first stilt-walking Dixieland band, Fleur de Beat, and is on-call as a tubist for the Magic Kingdom's Main Street Philharmonic. An active freelancer, she has also performed most notably with the Jacksonville Symphony, Florida Orchestra, Naples Philharmonic, Orlando Philharmonic, Ocala Symphony, Sarasota Ballet, Bach Festival Orchestra of Winter Park, Band Bajha Brass, at theme parks including Walt Disney World and Legoland FL, and at several international and regional instrumental conferences. Originally from Pittsburgh, Robin holds a B.M. in Music Education from West Virginia University and an M.M. from the University of South Florida. She is currently completing the final stages of the Doctor of Musical Arts degree from The Hartt School. Her primary teachers include Jay Hunsberger, Scott Mendoker, David McCollum, and Les Dean, Sr.

New Hire: Beth Wiese

Beth Wiese has accepted the position of Instructor of Tuba and Euphonium at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. Her responsibilities include teaching tuba and euphonium students and playing in the faculty brass quintet. Beth has most recently been a fellow of the New World Symphony and has performed with groups including the Aarhus Symphony Orchestra (Denmark), Macao Orchestra, Korean Broadcasting Symphony, and Civic Orchestra of Chicago. She has also been a winner of the Porcia International Brass Competition (Italy), Musicians Club of Women Competition (Chicago), Union League Civic and Arts Foundation Competition, and has participated in festivals including Tanglewood, National Repertory Orchestra, Aspen Music Festival, and National Orchestral Institute.

Results: 2015 Humboldt State University Brass Chamber Music Composition Contest

Tony Clements, Director of the Humboldt Brass Chamber Music Workshop, announced the 2015 Composition Contest winners on Monday, May 11, 2015.

Dr. Jan Bach, of DeKalb, IL, won the grand prize of US$2000 for his octet “Derivatives.” There were two second prize winners: Zachary Smith, of Fredericksburg, VA, for “Chelsea Suite,” and Jukka Viitasaari, of Tampere, Finland, for “Lord of the Sauna.” Each second-prize winner will receive US$750. Charlie Porter, of Eastsound, WA, received Honorable Mention recognition for “Octet.”

The contest focused on original 8-10 minute works for brass octet. All qualifying entries were played and evaluated by the workshop coaching staff using a blind audition process. Amateur musicians will perform this year’s contest submissions in a workshop format during the July 2015 Brass Chamber Music Workshop at Humboldt State University in Arcata, Calif.

“We have once again expanded our library with wonderful music,” said Clements. “I am especially excited by the strong response of composers to our call to create new music for brass ensembles. Congratulations to the winners, and many thanks to all the fine composers who submitted works.”

The Humboldt Brass Chamber Music Workshop is held each summer in two one-week sessions. 2015 sessions are scheduled for July 19-July 25 and July 26-August 1. Activities include: daily chamber ensemble rehearsals coached by some of the West Coast’s finest brass musicians; daily performances by participants; brass choir reading sessions; abundant freelance playing time; special-interest sessions on brass-related topics; and spectacular California North Coast scenery.

For further information regarding the Humboldt Brass Chamber Music Workshop or the Composition Contest visit http://www.humboldt.edu/brass/

New Hire: Stephen Allen

Dr. Stephen Allen has accepted the position of Adjunct Professor of Euphonium and Musical Director of the Montclair State University Brass Band at Montclair State University. His duties there will include teaching the euphonium studio and developing the new brass band course which is part of the Montclair curriculum. In addition, he will continue serving as a Full Professor of Music at Rider University as a musicologist. Dr. Allen won national awards on the euphonium in the UK during his youth. He studied at the Birmingham Conservatoire and Oxford University and is considered a world authority on Benjamin Britten and brass bands. He founded the national award-winning Princeton Brass Band and is Musical Director of the Lancaster British Brass Band. He was Professor of Euphonium at Rutgers University from 2007 until he accepted this new position at Montclair. He is currently a two-term president of the North American Brass Band Association.

New Hire: Aaron Tindall

Dr. Aaron Tindall, low brass instructor and performing artist for the Meinl Weston and Besson brands, has accepted the position of Assistant Professor of Practice of Tuba and Euphonium at University of Miami’s Frost School of Music. Dr. Tindall will leave his current position as professor of Tuba at Ithaca College where he has hosted two successful regional tuba euphonium conferences during his four-year tenure. While he will miss his students and colleagues there, Aaron is excited not only for this new chapter in his career, but also for his family as both he and his wife have extensive ties in the state of Florida.

ITEA Vice President/President Elect: Kelly Thomas

Congratulations to our new Vice-President/President-Elect, Kelly Thomas. Kelly has been a stalwart of the Association for many years. His work in the conference area has revolutionized our approach to conference organization and has been an important part of getting the Association on sound footing. As most readers know, he was the host of our landmark success with the 2010 conference in Tucson, and he will also be the host of the 2016 ITEC at the University of Tennessee – Knoxville. As Vice-President he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Association that will benefit every member of the Association over the next six years.

On behalf of the Association, our thanks to Dr. Kevin Wass for standing in nomination for what was the closest election in our recent history. In my conversation with Kevin, he expressed his support for Kelly and his continued commitment to ITEA. Congratulations to Kevin on his recent promotion to full Professor at Texas Tech University and his appointment as Director of Undergraduate Music Studies at Texas Tech, as well. Don’t worry – he also continues as Professor of Euphonium and Tuba, as well.

The future of our Association is bright with outstanding individuals such as Kelly and Kevin in leadership roles. Lend Kelly your congratulations, but more important, give him and our new President, Marty Erickson, your support and participation as they take office on July 1.

Jerry Young
President, ITEA

New Hire: Gretchen Renshaw

Gretchen Renshaw recently accepted the position of Wind Ensemble Conductor and Instructor of Low Brass at Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas. She will begin teaching there in Fall 2015. Gretchen is currently a University Distinguished Fellow at Michigan State University, where she plans to complete her D.M.A. in Tuba Performance and M.M. in Wind/Orchestral Conducting in May 2015. Previously, she earned degrees in Euphonium Performance from the University of Arkansas (M.M.) and Penn State University (B.M.). Her primary teachers include Philip Sinder, Benjamin Pierce, Steven Mead, and Velvet Brown. Gretchen has enjoyed success in major competitions on both tuba and euphonium, including winning the MTNA Young Artist Brass Competition, being named the Low Brass Winner of the Yamaha Young Performing Artists Competition, and being a finalist in the Artist Divisions of both the Leonard Falcone and ITEC competitions. In addition to performing, Gretchen is also a published arranger with Potenza Music. Her most significant publication is A Collection of Works for Euphonium and Piano by Simone Mantia, which she edited based on her research during an archival project of music belonging to this famous euphonium virtuoso. As Gretchen begins her career at Hendrix, she plans to continue being active as a tuba and euphonium soloist and conductor of both bands and orchestras. For more information about Gretchen, visit www.gretchenrenshaw.com

New Hire: James Green

Tubist James Green was named Lecturer of Tuba, Euphonium, and Bass Trombone at Ohio Northern University in Ada, OH. He is also a founding member of the Columbus BrassWorks, a new professional brass quintet in central Ohio. James is currently ABD in his Doctorate of Musical Arts Degree at The Ohio State University, received his Master of Music degree at Miami University, and received his Bachelor of Arts degree at Abilene Christian University. His primary teachers have been Jim Akins, Tim Olt, and Dr. Jeffrey Cottrell.

Past Event: UCA Low Brass Day

UCA Low Brass Workshop in Review
by Benjamin Scaccia

On November 14-15, 2014, the University of Central Arkansas Department of Music and low brass professors, Justin Cook (trombone) and Dr. Gail Robertson (euphonium, tuba, and jazz), hosted the first annual Low Brass Workshop, featuring some incredible guest artists and some of the exquisite UCA music faculty. The workshop proved not only to be an educational and stunning experience for the students of UCA, but it also catered to a handful of young low brass students, with their levels ranging from middle school to high school.

The event kicked off with Low Brass Night, the Friday night before the Saturday workshop. The recital featured Indiana University’s Professor of Trombone, Peter Ellefson, accompanied by UCA’s own Kazuo Murakami on piano. The second half of the recital then featured the SymbiosisDuo, consisting of Dr. Robertson on euphonium, Morehead State University’s Professor of Tuba and Euphonium, Dr. Stacy Baker on tuba, and Cincinnati freelance collaborative pianist, Alex Thio.

Then, on the clear and mild morning of November 15, 2014, the main festivities of the Low Brass Workshop commenced. The day started at 9:00am with a mass warm up, separated into a giant tuba/euphonium ensemble and an equally big trombone ensemble, mixing collegiate, high school, and middle school musicians. At 10:00am, the Arkansas Select Tuba-Euphonium Ensemble and Arkansas Select Trombone Ensemble broke away from the group to rehearse for the upcoming concert. Meanwhile, the rest of the Low Brass Day participants met for a question and answer session with Dr. Baker and Professor Ellefson. Moving on to 10:45am, all of the participants then merged into the recital hall to rehearse for the Combined Ensemble portion of the program, followed by a break for lunch.

The day continued at 12:30pm, with separated master classes for tuba/euphonium and trombone. Professor Ellefson lead the trombones, while Dr. Baker and Dr. Robertson showcased the Pro Series Elite Practice System to the tubas and euphoniums. The students, younger and older, seemed to really enjoy the demo of the at home practice tool. Following this, the concerts began around 1:45pm, starting with a reprise of the Guest Artist Recital from the night before. At 3:15pm, the UCA Tuba-Euphonium Ensemble performed several of Dr. Robertson’s arrangements of various James Bond favorites. You Only Live Twice showcased Professor Justin Cook on trombone, Dr. Gail Robertson on euphonium, Dr. Stacy Baker on tuba, and the UCA Director of Bands, Dr, Ricky Brooks as the conductor. The UCA Bear Bones Ensemble played Ave Maria by Franz Biebl next, later to feature Peter Ellefson on Cogent Caprice by Tommy Penderson as well. To showcase several All-District and All- State students, the Arkansas Select ensembles took the stage, displaying the young talent that is present in the state of Arkansas. The day then concluded with a massive combined ensemble with Robertson’s arrangements of Ave Verum Corpus and Batman, as all of the participants gave one final performance to close the books on a wonderfully musical day.

A special thank you goes out to the UCA Department of Music, Professor Justin Cook, Dr. Gail Robertson, the BearBones Trombone Choir, the Tuba/Euphonium Krewe, and the Student Government Association for making this day possible.