Dundee Church hosts University of Akron Trombone Choir
By Kyle Valentini
August 1, 2012
519
On Saturday, August 4 Dundee United Methodist Church will play host to a Trombone Concert in the Country when the University of Akron Trombone Choir invites the public to their inaugural performance, which begins at 6:30 p.m.
The Trombone Choir, under the direction of Dr. Justin Mason, will perform a variety of music, from Sousa marches to jazz, as well as popular hymns that will settle the spirit.
This is my childhood church and I thought it would be a non-threatening place for the trombone choir to play publicly for the first time and spread their wings, said Mason. The church is a sentimental place for me. It is the place I learned to sing polyphonic choir music and where I received my first communion. I am forever grateful to the church and the parishioners.
A picnic blanket and lawn chairs are suggested for the outdoor concert at the gazebo. Light refreshments and beverages will be prepared and served by members of the congregation.
Currently a contracted visiting professor of trombone at the University of Akron, with hopes to continue teaching at the ever-expanding facility, Mason said he will always call Dundee home and visits as often as possible.
The concert at the gazebo has something for everyone, said Mason. The old-time feel of the venue is perfect for families, especially those with children, to get out and enjoy an evening of music. The trombone is a special instrument and with it the choir is reminiscent of an a cappella group. There is so much warmth in the sound of this horn.
The trombone choir is a first for the University of Akron. This is not an old tradition, said Mason. This is a new tradition we are starting here. The group is made up of a diverse group of people from all over, most of whom are music education or performance majors that study the trombone.
The players range in age, with some still studying for their undergraduate degrees while others are graduate students.
In order to prepare for the upcoming concert, the trombone choir has been diligently practicing at Guzzetta Hall at the University of Akron, a space they say they are outgrowing as the music department continues to expand.
In case of rain, the concert will be held in the sanctuary of the church. A free will donation will be accepted for the groups traveling expenses.
