Story by Ava Chuppe
Contributing writer
am.chuppe@gmail.com
The Murray State University Trombone Ensemble, directed by assistant music professor Li Kuang, performed in the 2019 International Trombone Festival on July 10 in Muncie, Indiana.
After an extensive audition process, Murray State’s ensemble was selected to perform alongside ensembles from the University of Michigan, Eastman School of Music and others.
Hundreds of guests attended the live performance, many of them from other countries. The show at the festival was the premiere of the Murray State ensemble’s “Tip of the Spear,” which was composed by Mike D’Ambrosio, professor of music. Additionally, due to efforts by Department of Music instructor Justin Patton, Murray State students had the opportunity to participate in multiple recording sessions.
On the third day of the festival, Kuang performed a solo at the University Faculty Recital. He said the trip was beneficial for the trombone ensemble.
“I want to thank the Department of Music and College of Humanities and Fine Arts for their generous support to make this trip possible,” Kuang said. “I believe our presence at this high-caliber international event has become a great asset that will benefit our department, college and university for many years. I also want to thank Dr. D’Ambrosio for writing this wonderful octet piece for our trombone ensemble and spending hours working with our students.”
Dr. Lucia Unrau, chair of the Department of Music and music professor, said the ensemble’s attendance at the festival spoke toward the excellence of Murray State’s music program.
“The commitment by our faculty and students to make themselves available for this opportunity is extraordinary and speaks volumes about the integrity of those in our department,” Unrau said. “We can’t underestimate what this conveys to high school band directors, private teachers and prospective students about Murray State’s commitment to excellence. I want to congratulate Dr. Kuang, the Murray State Trombone Ensemble and Dr. D’Ambrosio on their performance, and thank them for their hard work and commitment.”
Since 1936, the Murray State University Department of Music has been a member of the National Association of Schools of Music. Murray State music graduates have served in roles such as popular recording artists, professional symphony musicians, jazz educators, songwriters, recording engineers, television writers, public school music teachers, university music department chairs, instrument technicians, church musicians and college music instructors.