The Multi–Focus Programs in Performance prepare students for the emerging career pathways of the 21st century–characterized by the remarkably eclectic spectrum of professional practices. These programs enable each performer to develop the high–level skills, knowledge and versatility that are required in today's evolving artistic world. Students are presented with myriad performance opportunities, extensive studies of traditional and experimental music, and an excellent student–faculty ratio. They also have unique opportunities to look beyond the boundaries of music by working in interdisciplinary settings, new genres and previously uncharted areas.
Guided by a faculty of internationally acclaimed artists, students hone their skills through concentrated training and a demanding schedule of formal and \informal concerts. These include solo recitals and performances by chamber groups and conducted ensembles (covering orchestral, choral and contemporary music repertoire), plus work in early music, opera, jazz, world music and experimental ensembles. As part of this training, students frequently rehearse and perform with faculty, both on and off campus.
Students in this program study a variety of traditional techniques and repertoire, and perform in both solo and ensemble configurations. The curriculum emphasizes contemporary styles, diverse musical cultures, improvisation techniques, electronic and interdisciplinary media, and new hybrid genres. These studies are augmented by weekly seminars/workshops on performance practice and technique that are frequently led by distinguished visiting artists.
The School of Music at CalArts has established an advanced, innovative, and unique New Millennium Brass Performance Program directed by internationally-renowned trumpeter, teacher, and recording artist Edward Carroll.
In addition to Mr. Carroll, the core faculty includes hornist Robin Graham, James Miller, Associate Principal Trombonist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and tubist Doug Tornquist.
Building from a foundation in traditional brass literature, the program places special emphasis on contemporary brass works and performance practice, providing a hospitable environment for study and experimentation that values new composition and new ideas. It focuses on intensive ensemble work (quartet, quintet, dectet, and full orchestral brass ensemble), and also offers opportunities to incorporate non-Western music, improvisation, technology, and interdisciplinary work into the student's studies. This rich and varied background will assist students in developing a unique set of skills and a variety of potential career paths.
Students enrolled in New Millennium Brass Studies have attended the Juilliard, Eastman, and Manhattan Schools of Music, the Peabody and Boston Conservatories, the Universities of Southern California, Louisville, Oregon, and Washington, Cal States Fullerton and Los Angeles, and the Interlochen Arts Academy. They have been awared fellowships at the Aspen, Lucern (CH), Bang on a Can, Brevard, and Norfolk music festivals.
Recent guests include trumpeters Thomas Stevens, Gabriele Cassone, Marcus Stockhausen, Mark Gould, John Wallace, Michael Sachs, Jason Price, Tom Dambly, Rob Roy McGregor, and trombonists Michael Svoboda, Ralph Sauer, Stweart Dempster, Monique Buzzarte, and Abbie Conant.
World-class brass players Abbie Conant (trombone), Sam Pilafian (tuba), and John Wallace (trumpet) act as advisors to the program and visit the campus to give master classes. The brass faculty from our outstanding jazz program are also available to students, including Wadada Leo Smith, jazz trumpet, improvisation, and composition; John Fumo, jazz trumpet; and Alex Iles, jazz trombone.
Graduate and advanced undergraduate students of trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, and tuba, including emerging brass ensembles, are encouraged to apply. To provide a high degree of personal contact, the program projects a maximum enrollment of six trumpets, four horns, four trombones, one euphonium, and two tubas.
For questions about the program itself, you can email Edward Carroll; for application information, email our Office of Admissions, or call them at 661-255-1050.
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