MidWest Horn Workshop

A few weeks ago I had the privilege of participating in the MidWest Horn Workshop in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.  I had a wonderful time, and I highly recommend attending a regional workshop. My weekend began with a fantastic concert by Bernhard Scully: I always find out after picking new (and uncommon) repertoire that he is the one person that has performed or recorded it.  This weekend, unsurprisingly, I was charmed by his recital selections (many which I would like to acquire), and his excellent horn playing. The next day, I adjudicated the high school solo horn competition, and was excited to see such bravura, energy and talent! I was wowed by many of the players, and thought everyone did well.  I was able to catch a bit of the lectures and events, but the afternoon had me focused on the Regional Artist Recital, where I performed the Wilder Suite.  Pianist Vincent Fuh was stellar, and I really enjoyed my time on stage, and the eclectic and interesting program we offered. I moved straight from recital to rehearsals to recital, where I was an impromptu guest in the Fox Valley Horns performing several selections, and with the All-Star Horn Ensemble, where we played a rousing Pirates of the Caribbean led by the able and dynamic Richard Todd.  Following that concert, Todd performed a recital including a fabulous undertaking of the Hindemith Sonata, and I was able to relax a little later with some of the other hornists attending the concerts.  Sunday morning included a dissertation interview, and a large ensemble concert.  Overall, I was impressed with the variety and range of performances and classes, and the success of the event. However, what left the biggest impression was the support, camaraderie, sincerity and amicability of  those who attended- in a world where we spend far too much time dwelling on what is wrong, I saw a lot of right that weekend, and it left me recharged to tackle the last few winter weeks! 

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