Martin's Blurbs

Vandergrift High School Band Program

2012-03-12T15:30:00.002-07:00

I know that I have neglected this page for quite sometime. I figured that with a busy performance schedule, it would be a great opportunity to share my experiences and to talk about the different venues along with the talented students that I get to coach. Last weekend I had the honor to be invited as the guest artist at Vandergrift High School's Concerto Competition. Vandergrift High School is apart of the Leander Independent School District and is in their 3rd year of existence. On Thursday night I had the opportunity to listen 12 finalists and critique them before Friday night's performance. The venue reminded me of American Idol. Each student was a very strong musician. Many of the finalists performed their selections from memory, which was also impressive. There were three flute students that I thought were very exceptional. Other finalists that stood out to me performed a piece by Weber on Eb clarinet! and also a performance of Mozart's Horn Concerto No. 1 by a freshman. I would like to congratulate the band director staff (Jeremy Spicer, Mike Howard, etc) for doing a fine job with this band program. They hosted a very fine event which was well attended. I also had the opportunity to perform a mini-recital at the end of Friday night's performance which was well received. The weekend didn't stop there...Pops concerts and a performance at St. James' 85th anniversary also kept me busy! Finally, The McCain Duo just posted a new promotional video. Be sure to check it out!

Summer!!

2010-05-09T18:42:00.000-07:00

Well I completed my year at Henderson! It was a great one and I will miss all of my students and colleagues. I'm looking forward to this summer. 1) To get back to the basics (fundamental practice) 2) Many projects to start working on. I will be performing with four groups at the International Trombone Festival in July! JazzBonez will be recording our first album right after the festival. Gearing up for my 1st year a Texas State. Check back for more details!

Trying this thing out

2010-04-11T17:50:00.001-07:00

This if my first time writing a blog. Not sure how much time I will have to do this but we shall see. Currently in Dallas right now. Have been checking out some great concerts this weekend. I am finishing up the last few weeks of the semester then summer break!