Trumpeters Frank Hanson and Conference Host Michael Davison joined a chamber ensemble for a performance of Stravinsky's Octet for Wind Instruments, conducted by Fred Cohen. All of the members of the group demonstrated exceptional ability in bringing out the musical elements necessary for a successful interpretation of this classic work.

Technical clarity and beauty of tone are the qualities that defined Chris Gekker's playing in his performance of David Sampson's haunting Serenade for Flugelhorn and String Orchestra. The lyrical playing exhibited in the opening developed throughout into episodes of increasing intensity with technically demanding writing in both the solo line and the polished string ensemble. The performance left no doubt of this new work's place in the trumpet repertoire.

In the afternoon's final piece, Greg Pascuzzi successfully combined the unique styles of Dennis Najoom and Marvin Stamm in his Dialogues. The score indicates parts for C and B-flat trumpets, but the soloists added piccolo and flugelhorn, further enhancing the individual character of each solo line. Equally diverse were the groups accompanying each player: a wind and string ensemble for Najoom and a rhythm section for Stamm. Each player contributed significantly, with his own unique style, before combining with both ensembles for the conclusion. Dialogues will undoubtedly be a popular choice for performers in need of a stylistically diverse chamber work with definite audience appeal.