Jon Faddis featured with the Jazz Knights

Phil Smith coaching a student

Robin Rigby manages some trumpet stress

Dave Bilger featured with the Concert Band

On March 10th, the United States Military Academy Band hosted the West Point Trumpet Conference. David Bilger, Principal Trumpet of the Philadelphia Orchestra, began the conference festivities with a master class entitled “Higher, faster, and louder: Practice tips to develop and maintain technique.” Eastman School of Music jazz studies professor Clay Jenkins followed, presenting a jazz improvisation lecture and performance. After lunch, Philip Smith, Principal Trumpet of the New York Philharmonic, performed a number of selections with composer and accompanist Joseph Turrin. Philip Smith also graciously coached four college players. Robin Rigby, faculty at Manhattan School of Music, followed with her presentation of the “Stress Management System.” A proven method for promoting performance success, the system taught methods that are essential to perfecting performance and competitive abilities. Concluding the day’s events was a performance by Matt Shulman. Shulman combined intimate vocals with virtuosic trumpet playing and sensual electronics to create his signature sound.

The entire conference concluded with a concert beginning at 7:30 p.m. The concert opened with the Academy Band’s Jazz Knights featuring legendary jazz trumpeter Jon Faddis. Not only did Faddis impress the audience with his phenomenal trumpet ability, his interaction with the audience also proved to be quite entertaining! Following the jazz portion of the concert, the Academy Concert Band featured David Bilger, Principal Trumpet of the Philadelphia Orchestra. Bilger performed a multi-movement work entitled Fantasy, composed by trumpeter Bert Truax, who was also in attendance to hear the flawless performance. Finally, the concert concluded with an arrangement of God Bless America, specifically written for the conference. Featuring all 16 trumpet players in the USMA Band, the “hair raising” selection also showcased the talents of Bilger and Faddis.

For more information about the United States Military Academy Band please visit the website linked below.