This May, five trumpet players from UF were selected by audition to attend the International Trumpet Guild Conference (ITG) including Zach Roberts, Isaac Brantley, Michael Breen, Nicolas Vivas, and Andy Duarte.
Dr. Randy Lee, Assistant Professor of Trumpet at UF serves as the coordinator for the ITG Trumpet Prelude Program. This program offers performance experience to students from around the US and beyond as a part of ITG conference. The conference also offers students the opportunity to learn from some of the top trumpet players internationally. This year’s conference was held in Hershey, PA.
The Annual International Trumpet Guild Conference includes master classes, industry showcase, merchandise, concerts and presentations. This is also a great learning opportunity for trumpet players to build their knowledge on music history and technical skills. The conference included performances throughout the week by trumpet players from around the world of whom many are considered to be masters in the art form.
“Anything you can think of regarding trumpet, it’s there” – Dr. Lee
This year, Dr. Lee was invited to perform in an ensemble of alumni from his alma mater, Arizona State University. Conducting this group was Dr. Lee’s professor, Professor David Hickman who is one of the world’s most distinguished trumpet experts. Hickman received lifetime achievement award International Trumpet Guild.
“David Hickman had a tremendous impact on my performing and teaching. I wouldn’t be at the University of Florida without his mentorship” – Dr. Lee
In addition to Dr. Lee’s students were able to attend a concert with Allen Vizzutti, international trumpet legend in performance.
Dr. Lee said that this experience for his students would not have been possible without the support of a very special parent, Suzy Lombardo and her husband Bill. Suzy is passionate about music and did not hesitate to provide financial support which enabled the UF College of the Arts, School of Music to have its first ever dedicated fund for trumpet.
“The Lombardo’s truly understand the need for support for student travel and performance opportunities such as this. We are very grateful.” – Dr. Lee
Philanthropic support like this gives students the ability to be a part of something beneficial in their artistic development. Playing among of the best in the field and learning new practices from admired instructors are just a few examples. These kind of experiences are only possible with help from donors like the Lombardos.
