Riverside City College Wind Ensemble opened up their 2024 season with a guest trumpet soloist, Thomas Hooten, as well as an appearance from composer Anthony Plog on March 17 at the Henry W. Coil Sr. and Alice Edna Coil School for the Arts in Downtown Riverside.
Stephen Day
RCC Wind Ensemble welcomed trumpet soloist Thomas Hooten, Principal Trumpet of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra and one of the world's most prominent classical trumpeters today, who joined the ensemble during their performances of "Three Scenes for Trumpet and Wind Ensemble" composed by Anthony Plog and "With Malice Toward None" composed by John Williams. Anthony Plog, visiting from Freiburg Germany, appeared on stage after his piece was performed to accept applause.
Both Hooten and Plog have extensive music educational backgrounds have taught at music institutions around the world. Currently Hooten is on faculty at the University of Southern California where he teaches and Plog has published his "Plog Program" a seven-volume method book that has been a valuable addition to trumpet methodology.
Stephen Day
RCC Wind Ensemble also included the Tribute to John Philip Sousa Honor Band who played the second half of the show with a rousing tribute to Americana with selections "American Salute", "Songs of Grace and Glory", and of course, "Stars and Stripes Forever." At the conclusion of "Stars and Stripes Forever" there was a dramatic flag unveiling which brought the crowd to their feet.
Stephen Day
IF you missed this amazing performance, you can watch the recording on the RCC Media Website. Orchestral music is best experienced live, and the Coil Center is an acoustic dream where you will be treated to stellar performances from the future world renowned musicians currently honing their craft under the educational oversight of teachers like Kevin Mayse in the RCC music department.
You can find out when their next performance is as well as get tickets at the RCC Box Office. You can also follow the Wind Ensemble on Instagram for videos and photos of rehearsals and other back stage fun.
