Trumpet studio
Thank you for visiting the VCU trumpet studio on the Web.
The VCU Trumpet Studio is comprised of more than 20 dedicated students who study with four trumpet artist/teachers. We offer many degree options for students interested in pursuing music as a major as well as performance and educational opportunities for music minors and non-music majors. Instruction is available in the areas of fundamental technique, improvisational skills, orchestral repertoire, chamber music, solo repertoire, jazz repertoire and more.
In addition to weekly private lessons and a trumpet master class, VCU trumpet students also have the opportunity to perform in the VCU Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, University Band, small jazz ensembles, jazz orchestras, trumpet ensembles, brass quintets, large brass ensembles, basketball Pep Band and other chamber ensembles.
As a service to the university and the community, the VCU trumpet studio and brass area often host clinics, master classes and performances by renowned guest artists that are free and open to the public.
Faculty
The trumpet faculty at VCU is comprised of distinguished performers who continue to vigorously pursue their craft. Rex Richardson, associate professor of trumpet and jazz trumpet, has established an international reputation as one of the “rising stars” of the brass and jazz worlds, maintaining a busy, globetrotting schedule as a soloist, recitalist and clinician at major festivals and with countless ensembles. Mary Bowden, adjunct instructor of trumpet, and Brian Strawley, adjunct instructor of jazz trumpet and Jazz Orchestra II, are both members of the Richmond Symphony’s excellent brass section and enjoy thriving careers as chamber musicians and freelances throughout the U.S and the world. The jazz playing of Taylor Barnett, adjunct instructor of trumpet, has won him international recognition in competitions and his compositions and arrangements have been performed worldwide. All trumpet instructors bring a powerful combination of artistry, pedagogical expertise and dedication to the VCU trumpet studio.
Our students
Numerous VCU students have been semi-finalists, finalists and prizewinners in the solo and jazz improvisation divisions of the National Trumpet Competition. Individual members of the trumpet studio have also distinguished themselves in international brass festivals and summer festivals and in prominent graduate programs around the country.
Please take the time to browse the VCU Music Web site and be sure to revisit often in order to access the most current information on our educational events and performances. Feel free to e-mail or call with any questions.
