The Brass and Percussion Program offers students an opportunity to study the fundamental principles of their instrument through a broad range of exercises, etudes, and solo literature. The faculty are professional musicians and educators experienced in all facets of performance. Students have the opportunity to perform in master classes, solo recitals and in a wide range of ensembles including band, orchestra, jazz ensemble, and chamber music. Alumni have gone on to work in all styles of professional playing including orchestras such as the Malaysian Philharmonic (Indonesia), Tonehalle Orchestra (Switzerland), and Natal Philharmonic (South Africa).
The Brass and Percussion Program strives to present master classes with nationally-known guest artists each year. In 2012, the roster included tubist Gene Pokorny and trumpeter John Hagstrom; both members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. In 2013, the roster included trombonist Jennifer Baker (New York City). euphoniumist Benjamin Pierce (University of Arkansas), and trumpeter Michael Kirgan (New Zealand Symphony Orchestra).
Faculty
Jennie Blomster
Lecturer in Horn, 2005.
M.M., California State University-Fresno;
B.M., University of Denver.
Studied with Thomas Hiebert, Richard Seraphinoff, David Krehbal, David Knappy, John Keene and David Kaslow.
Leonard Ott
Lecturer in Trumpet, 1998.
B.A., California State University, East Bay.
Studied with David Burkhart, Marvin Nelson, Laurie McGaw, and Roy Poper.
Stephen Perdicaris
Lecturer in Trombone, 1993.
M.N.A., University of San Francisco
Associate Certificate with Honors in trombone performance, Royal College of Music, London;
B.M., University of North Texas.
Studied with Leon Brown, Mark Lawrence, and Carl Lenthe.
Matt Tropman
Lecturer in Tuba/Euphonium, 2010.
D.M.A. University of Michigan
M.M., Arizona State University
B.M., University of Michigan
K. Allen Brown
Lecturer in Percussion, 1981.
M.M. Western Michigan University;
B.M. University of Oregon.
Studied with David Shrader, Robert Tilles, and Thomas Siwe.