MSU saxophone ensemble performs at U.S. Navy International Saxophone Symposium

Morehead State University music students performed at the 42nd annual U.S. Navy International Saxophone Symposium. The event was held Jan. 10 and 11 at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia.   

The saxophone studio’s flagship ensemble, the award-winning Lockegee Saxophone Quartet, was invited to perform a short concert. While only the Lockegee Saxophone Quartet performed as part of the conference, the remainder of MSU’s saxophone studio was able to join on the trip as conference attendees.   

In addition to participating in the conference, students were able to visit a few historic sites in nearby Washington, D.C., including the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and the National Cathedral.   

The U.S. Navy International Saxophone Symposium attracts thousands of local, national and international musicians for a weekend filled with recitals, masterclasses, lectures, clinics, and concerts by the world’s top performers.   

“For many of the students, this was the first time attending such an event. They were amazed and inspired by the quality of the performances that the U.S. Navy Band presented. They enjoyed the uplifting and encouraging camaraderie of being among so many music (and specifically saxophone) enthusiast,” said Nathan Mensink, visiting assistant professor of music. “I am glad to work at an institution that supports these kinds of endeavors and opportunities for our students. I am proud of the Lockegee Quartet, who was invited to perform the symposium. They gave a fantastic concert and beautifully represented MSU.”  

For more information about programs in the Department of Music, Theatre and Dance, visit www.moreheadstate.edu/mtd, email mtd@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2473.  

Photo, right: Students from MSU’s music program traveled to the U.S. Navy International Saxophone Symposium and visited several historic sites in nearby Washington, D.C. Pictured, from left to right: Natalie Gatien, junior Bachelor of Music Education from Jane Lew, West Virginia; Cameron Fraley, sophomore Bachelor of Music Education from Ashland; Joshua Herrera, sophomore Bachelor of Music Education from Florence; Connor Robinette, sophomore Bachelor of Music Education major from Ashland; Jake Rodriguez, sophomore Bachelor of Music Education major from Ashland; Melody Trumbo, sophomore Bachelor of Music Education major from Manchester, Ohio; Nicholas Chevalier, freshman Bachelor of Music Education major from Pikeville; and Wesley Moore, freshman Bachelor of Music Education major from Russell. 

Photo, left: Morehead State University’s saxophone ensemble, the Lockegee Saxophone Quartet, performed at the 42nd annual U.S. Navy International Saxophone Symposium. Pictured, left to right: Hunter Plymale, senior Bachelor of Music Education major from Pikeville; Caleb Gibson, senior Bachelor of Music Education major from Louisville; Marcie Walker, sophomore Bachelor of Music Education major from Dry Ridge; and Jimmie Hafley, sophomore Bachelor of Music Education major from Somerset.