By Kari Brooks

Not everyone was familiar with the name Amanda Pepping before her recital, but it is safe to say that few will forget after hearing her play. Pepping is quickly making a name for herself both in the United States and abroad. She received both her bachelors and masters degree from Arizona State University where she studied trumpet with David Hickman and is currently studying as the recipient of a Fulbright Scholarship with Edward Tarr in Germany.

Pepping's recital was a mix of upbeat Latin pieces and lyrical suites. Amanda arranged several of the works she performed for trumpet that were originally written for piano or guitar. Her first notes in Astureas Leyenda de la Suite Español by Isaac Albenez grabbed the audiences' attention with a whirlwind of technique and multiple tonguing. But Pepping confidently showed her lyrical talents as well with her beautiful performance of Willow Song by Gioachino Rossini. Her sweet tone was effortless in both high and low registers. Lotus Land by Cyril Scott was played exceptionally well by Amanda, as she sang with a full mellow sound on the flugelhorn. This piece showcased not only her lyrical ability but her fast fingers as well. Several highly technical passages flowed smoothly from her horn in a way that hardly made the audience aware of its difficulty. All of the pieces performed on her recital were executed with great accuracy and energy. Amanda concluded her recital by dedicating Frasquita by Franz Lehar to her former teacher David Hickman. She played this lively piece with a full sound and delicately worked her way through turns and grace notes.

The trumpet world will be seeing a lot more of Amanda Pepping as she continues to grow in her musical career. Her accompanist, Gail Novak also gave a notable performance and greatly supported the blossoming talents of Amanda Pepping.