UGA School of Music faculty series explores classical, jazz trumpet

The Hugh Hodgson Faculty Series, the premier faculty recital series at the UGA Hugh Hodgson School of Music, delves into classical and jazz trumpet with its September edition, featuring Brandon Craswell, in Ramsey Concert Hall on Thursday, September 15, at 8 p.m.

Craswell holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in trumpet performance from Indiana University and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Kentucky. As associate professor of trumpet at the School of Music, he balances teaching with an active performance schedule.

The first half of Craswell’s program, all classical music, is unique in two ways: it begins with a composition written by Craswell himself, and the subsequent three works have Craswell accompanied on piano by Janet Craswell, his mother.

“We've performed together since I was a kid and always love playing together,” said Craswell.

Craswell and his mother will perform works by Max Bruch, Dwight Stone and Vladimir Peskin before a short break, after which, the recital turns from classical to jazz and Craswell is joined by a number of musicians from the Hodgson School—faculty and students alike—for three jazz numbers.

“Playing jazz is something I love to do but don't get the opportunity all that often, so I'm very excited to play a few pieces with rhythm section,” said Craswell.

The stage will be full for the program’s next-to-last piece: Nicholas Payton’s “The Three Trumpeteers.” Craswell will be joined by School of Music alumni Greg Hankins on piano and Luca Lombardi on bass and percussion student Wesley Sumpter on drums, as well as alumnus Geoff Wood and Philip Smith, the School’s William F. and Pamela P. Prokasy Professor in the Arts, on trumpet.

“Obviously it's an absolute pleasure anytime I get the opportunity to play with Phil Smith, and Geoff Wood just finished his doctorate from UGA, so we are very proud of him,” said Craswell.

Tickets are available at pac.uga.edu and the Performing Arts Center box office for $12 or $6 with a UGA student ID.

The UGA Hugh Hodgson School of Music sponsors more than 350 performances each year. To view the performance calendar, subscribe to the weekly email concert listing or learn more about the School of Music, go to music.uga.edu.