In this weeklong Summer@Eastman program, students study the trumpet under the instruction of world-class faculty. Summer@Eastman’s Marketing Assistant Joyce Tseng talked with Eastman Summer Trumpet Institute Director Wesley Nance (Second Trumpet, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra; Trumpet Faculty, Eastman Community Music School) to learn more about the program.
JT: Please tell us about the objectives and focus of the Eastman Summer Trumpet Institute.
WN: Our goal is to inspire and educate aspiring classical trumpeters in all areas of trumpet technique and musicianship. Topics covered include solo playing, chamber music, orchestral playing, audition preparation and strategies, effective practice, overcoming performance anxiety, etc.
JT: Who should apply to this workshop?
WN: Advanced high school and college trumpeters who are motivated to get to the next level in their playing.
JT: What repertoire should students prepare?
WN: Audition videos will be required. The repertoire is very flexible. We want to hear you play some solo literature and an etude or an excerpt. Pick pieces that show your best playing. If you are admitted to the program you will need a movement of a solo with piano, an etude or two, and some orchestral excerpts.
S@E Trumpet Faculty (L-R) Wesley Nance, Anthony Plog, Micah Wilkinson
JT: What unique opportunities will be offered?
WN: Our guest artist this summer will be Anthony Plog, an internationally known soloist, composer, and teacher. This is a unique opportunity to spend an entire week learning from him, and the only opportunity in the USA, as Tony lives in Germany. Micah Wilkinson, Principal Trumpet of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, will also be our guest, performing and teaching a masterclass.
Students will also get a good look at the opportunities that Eastman has to offer. The mock audition experience has been one of the most unique and helpful experiences, according to student feedback.
JT: Are private lessons included in the program?
WN: Yes! We plan to include 30-minute speed lessons again this summer. Every student takes one lesson from a faculty member. Each lesson is open for any student to observe, so students can watch as many lessons as they like, to learn as much as possible.
JT: What is a sample day like?
WN: Every day is different! Some days involve masterclasses where the students perform with a professional pianist, speed lessons, and technique classes. Other days may include trumpet ensemble rehearsals, orchestral excerpt classes, mock auditions, or guest artist recitals. The week ends with a participants’ recital with solo and ensemble performances. We literally run out of days trying to fit everything in!
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The Eastman Summer Trumpet Institute runs July 30-August 4, 2023. Participants are chosen by audition and applications are due by May 1, 2023. Visit the Summer@Eastman website for more information.