The Georgia State Trumpet ensemble, led by Dr. Alexander Freund, has returned to Atlanta after a thrilling trip to the University of Colorado, Boulder as a competitor in the 2023 National Trumpet Competition. The competition was held from March 25-27, 2023, and featured various events, including solo and ensemble performances, masterclasses, and lectures. The Georgia State Trumpet Ensemble showcased their skills in the small ensemble division, performing “Moonshot,” written for the ensemble by Georgia State alumnus Ryan Ragsdale. They were one of 40 small collegiate ensembles to compete this year.
Made up of undergraduate and graduate students from the School of Music, the GSU Trumpet ensemble is comprised of Joseph Fisher Brosmer, BM music performance; Adams Hollis, BM music education; Victor Pires, MM music performance; Douglas Escobar, MM music performance; Aiken DelAguila, BM music performance; and Luis DeLira, BM music education.
In addition to the ensemble competition, graduate student Victor Pires competed as a soloist. Victor placed third in the graduate solo competition, impressing the judges with his exceptional musicianship and technical skill. His mature and sensitive interpretation of the first movement of Vladimir Peskin’s Trumpet Concerto made him stand out among the best 3 young performers in the country. Dr. Freund comments, “For me as a musical educator, there is no greater joy and satisfaction than seeing students fulfilling their dreams, finding their own path and being able to express themselves naturally and authentically.
Victor has shown profound musical meaning and beautiful sound which are the main ingredients of music-making. To be selected as one of the top three performers of such a large country is a huge achievement. Bravo!”
For more information about the Georgia State Trumpet Ensemble and their upcoming performances, visit the School of Music website at music.gsu.edu.