With a list of prestigious awards and a performance resume with people such as Natalie Cole, Joe Williams, and Tony Bennett, USM is hosting a very special faculty recital. The very talented trumpeter, Trent Austin, will be performing in Gorham’s Corthell Hall on Friday, November 14th at 8:00.
The show advertised with the title “Clazz and Jassical”–also shown as “Bach, Bebop, and Beyond”–gives bypassers an obvious indication that this recital will cover a lot of musical grounds of the trumpet history. Much of the program is influenced by those who have influenced Austin. “As a professional musician in Boston, I find myself playing a wide variety of styles, from early styles of the 1400s, to today’s current trends in hip-hop and electronic. I’ve decided to pick a few of my favorite styles to play on this recital.? The musical conglomerate of sor”s, touches on the diversity of the range of musical fields themselves, and shows listeners the multi-lateral aspects of the trumpet. Several featured artists will be Hayden, Paganini, Monk, and several compositions by Trent Austin himself.
As a busy man, Austin balances a very demanding performance schedule with an equally, if not more so, job of teaching. “I’m very lucky to get paid to do what I love! I love to perform and always have. I have to say though that I love teaching more. Seeing the students’ eyes light up when they ‘get it’ is one of the most rewarding feelings in the world!” One of his current students and one of the “inspirations to being an instructor” will be accompanying him in the piece titled “Lotus Blossom.” This student who keeps Austin on his toes is USM senior, Micah Maurio. They will also be joined by other members of the USM music faculty including Chris Oberholtzer, trombone; Gary Wittner, guitar; Les Harris, drums; and Bronek Suchanek on bass.
Austin works hard and, as stated above, loves what he does. It is not an easy thing to be so successful in the competitive musical field. “I’ve worked hard to get to this point, and quite honestly have to work even harder to ensure that I continue to be creative in today’s marketplace!” When asked about encouragement to upcoming musicians in this tough market, Austin replied, “Take every opportunity you can as you will never know where that will lead you. Diversify as much as possible but focus on what you love. Always listen first, then respond.” Though these words are from a musical man, their application reaches across the board.
So check your calendars for Friday evening, on November 14, for a very special performance opportunity. “There’s bound to be something you’ll love, regardless of your background!”
For more information, check out www.usm.maine.edu/music.
Tickets to the concert are $15 for general public, $10 for seniors, and $5 for students. Call the box office at 780-5555.