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A-State Trumpet Ensemble to Perform at California Conference

05/14/2024

JONESBORO – Members of the Arkansas State Trumpet Ensemble from Arkansas State University have received the prestigious honor of being asked to perform at the 2024 International Trumpet Guild Conference in Anaheim, Calif., which is May 28 through June 1.  

“This opportunity is truly remarkable and signifies a tremendous honor for us,” said Dr. Nairam Simoes, assistant professor of trumpet.  
 
Simoes said the students will open for one of the evening concerts that will take place where all conference participants will be in attendance.  
 
“Being selected for this role is a testament to the dedication and talent of our ensemble members and represents the highest honors achievable for a group chosen from the prelude ensembles, as this is a peer-reviewed and juried selection,” added Simoes.  
 
He said following their performance, the students will join him in a performance at downtown Disneyland for the Festival of Trumpets, of which Simoes serves as coordinator.  
 
“I’m proud to mention that both of our graduate trumpet students will serve as my assistant coordinators for the event. I believe this showcases their exceptional leadership skills and commitment to serving our international community of trumpet players,” said Simoes. 
 
Students participating are Master of Music Education (MME) and performance student Grayden Fields of Southside; Master of Music (MM) in performance student Carlos Mejia of Springdale; sophomore music education and performance major Zane Kenzik of Mason, Ohio; junior music education major Jeremiah Hendrix of Bald Knob; and A-State graduate and incoming MM in performance major Audrey Alpha of Olive Branch, Miss.  
 
Simoes said both opportunities will bring valuable visibility to A-State.  
 
“This fills me with immense pride in our students and their achievements. Please join me in celebrating our students,” added Simoes.  

A-State Trumpet Ensemble
Left to right: Carlos Mejia, Audrey Alpha, Grayden Fields, Zane Kenzik and Jeremiah Hendrix perform during Create@State.