The renowned trumpet soloist Alison Balsom presented a masterclass at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) on February 20, 2009.  This event was graciously sponsored by Schilke Music Products and presented in conjunction with the Secrest Artist Series of Wake Forest University.

Three UNCSA graduate students (all students of Judith Saxton) performed for this class, along with two undergraduate students of Wake Forest University (both students of Kevin Bowen).  Talya Lieberman (UNCSA) opened the class with a performance of the first movement of the Hindemith Sonata for Trumpet and Piano.  Greg Lloyd (UNCSA) came next with a rendition of the first movement of Masks by Dana Wilson.  Alex Rodiek completed UNCSA’s contribution to the class in his performance of the first movement of the Gregson Concerto.

Matthew Martin, a student at Wake Forest University, performed the first movement of the Halsey Steven’s Sonata for Trumpet and Piano from memory in preparation for an upcoming concerto competition.  He was followed by Ashley Gore, (WFU), performing the first movement of the Kennan Sonata for Trumpet and Piano.

Balsom had many helpful comments for each of the performers.  Most centered around clarifying each individuals musical message and on finding ways to connect with your audience and draw them into your performance.  Balsom also expressed her trust in the concepts of James Stamp when it came to achieving consistent performance.  In particular, the idea of thinking down when going up and thinking up when going down seemed to help all the participants.  She also highlighted the importance of the inhalation and exhalation of wind being like a pendulum, in its steady, non-stop approach, and perceiving the wind on the exhalation as bouncing a big beach ball. Throughout this class, Balsom demonstrated her musicianship, attention to detail, and mastery of her craft for the edification of all attendees.