Witek in Querétaro, Mexico

Aaron Witek, Assistant Professor of Trumpet and Coordinator of Brass and Percussion in the School of Music at Stetson University, served as Artist in Residence and Brass Clinician for "Curso de Ensamble de Bandas e Instrumentos de Metal" in Querétaro, Mexico, May 29 – June 2, 2023. 

This brass workshop was sponsored by the Faculty of Arts of the Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, the Secretary of Extension of the University, the Secretary of Culture of the City of Querétaro, and Yamaha.  

Daily workshop sessions were held with a culminating concert on Friday afternoon featuring the Juan Manuel Arpero Brass Ensemble, a representative group of brass majors from the Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro (UAQ) taught by Mtra. Sandra Kessler, and participants from throughout Central Mexico. 

Witek performs with the Banda de Música del Estado de Querétaro

35 musicians from throughout Central Mexico signed up for the workshop and 31 completed all course requirements, receiving a certificate for their work.  

During the week, Witek lectured on brass techniques, coached the Juan Manuel Arpero Brass Ensemble, led masterclasses featuring students from the UAQ, and rehearsed an ensemble of participants.  

Witek works with student participants

The Friday afternoon concert included performances by the Juan Manuel Arpero Brass Ensemble and the ensemble of participants that performed two of Witek's arrangements, with Witek conducting.  In addition, Witek was the featured soloist on the Friday evening concert with the Banda de Música del Estado de Querétaro (State Band).  He performed "Gran Fantasía Rusa" by Jules Levy, arranged by Paul DeVille. (Source: Aaron Witek)