Karl Sievers, Reporter
“Look to the future” focus day at the 2002 ITG Conference included solo competitions for young trumpet artists, among them being the event for soloists 14 to 18 years old. Certainly these performances were impressive, age aside. However, the freshness and purity of presentation should be a lesson to all of us. Although these young artists, as a group, possess impeccable technique and command of the instrument that was quite impressive, the over-riding impression conveyed to me was that they allow the pursuit of music to drive the creative process, whereas so many trumpeters tend to be technique or sound production obsessed. These were solo presentations of very high musical integrity, commendable for any age group.
Finalists:
1. Matthew Palmer
2. Kitt Garner
3. Huw Morgan
Goni Eshed and Antonio Faillaci - High Commendation
Judges for the competition included Joyce Davis (USA), Mark O’Keefe (Scotland), and Arthur Vanderhoeft (Belgium). More than thirty competitors performed representing the United Kingdom, Israel, Estonia, and the United States. Accompanists for the competition included David Jones, Russell Lomas, and Jonathan Scott. Students were required to select one piece from a select list of repertoire. This listed included the following works: Cantelina by Barratt, Andante and Scherzo by Busser, Concert Etude by Goedicke, Concerto-Movement one by Hummel, and Prelude and Canzonetta by Woolrich. A second piece, of the entrants choosing was also performed. All participants received written comments from the judges. Prizes were awarded following the master class by Håkan Hardenberger later in the day.
A new component of ITG Conferences, the youth events and the youth competitions, provide an ever expanding array of events that are increasingly serving members of all ages in ITG. Thanks to all for making this new aspect of ITG a resounding success!
