International stars to visit UNT
The euphonium studio at the University of North Texas in Denton has managed to create an all too rare positive opportunity for its students despite the current global health crisis. Just like universities all over the World, UNT has closed its campus and students are now accessing tuition remotely. Euphonium Professor David Childs, who leads the renowned 34 strong euphonium studio is currently delivering his lessons through an online learning environment, and the success of the current technology based learning led David to organise an online Guest Artist Series. David explained: “During the next four weeks we have the pleasure of welcoming four outstanding euphonium artists to our virtual studio classes.”
The online Guest Artist Series began today (7th April) with Dr. Robert Childs discussing the development of euphonium repertoire. Speaking about the online class, David said: “I couldn’t resist the opportunity to begin the series with my Dad, who was of course my teacher too. I know the students benefitted a great deal from his advice and enjoyed hearing him recount his experiences as a soloist, educator, conductor and bandsman. They are all familiar with concertos such as the Horovitz, Golland and Wilby, but hearing first-hand about his time at GUS sitting next to Trevor Groom, for whom the Horovitz was composed, and his own performances of the Golland at Sydney Opera House and the Wilby at the Mozartium gave new meaning and life to the works.”
A member of the class was keen to share his thoughts on the initiative: “It was so interesting to hear about Dr. Childs’ experiences and his unique journey via industry and brass bands to music as a soloist and mature student. It made me consider if I could be working a little harder with my own studies. He gave two pieces of advice that will really stick with me. Firstly, become the best musician you can be, not just a technician; you should try to really resonate with your audience and the musicians around you. Secondly, be the best person you can be; if you’re up against someone with equal abilities then it’s usually the person with the greatest human qualities that gets the job.”
The series will continue with Dr. David Thornton, leading euphoniumist and MD of the Grimethorpe Band, followed by Hiram Diaz and Mark Jenkins of The President’s Own United States Marine Band.
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