The School of Visual and Performing Arts Department of Music and the Faculty Artist Concert Series presented the Black Bayou Brass-trio in the Emy-Lou Biedenharn Recital Hall Wednesday night.
Black Bayou Brass is dedicated to provide and promote musical education in schools throughout Louisiana and other surrounding areas.
The trio consists of Aaron Witek, trumpet; James Boldin, horn; and James Layfield, trombone. Black Bayou Brass is a faculty ensemble and has been performing here at ULM since 1971, as well as at other regional conferences.
The trio performed complex pieces that originally required more than just the three instruments presented, including Grand Russian Fantasia by Jules Levy (1838-1903) and the widely known Rondo from Concerto for Horn and Orchestra by Mozart (1756-1791).
The pieces ranged from slow and steady to rhythmic and upbeat. Students were introduced briefly to the history of each piece between songs, allowing them to be both educated and entertained.
Some students said the performance was educational and learned a great deal.
“My mind was blown,” said James Hodge, a junior music education major. “It was very enlightening as a brass musician to see my professor perform.”
Tyler McBaugh, a junior music education major, was also among the students who enjoyed themselves. McBaugh laughed and stated that the performance made him reflect on his own musical ability as a musician and how it could be improved.
“I thought it was fantastic,” said McBaugh. “It was very intense.”
ULM offers a variety of opportunities to see musical works performed by a variety of musicians, including both students and professionals. Tickets for future performances are available in the office on the first floor of Biedenharn Recital Hall.
The recitals and concerts are usually free with a student ID. Each performance offers a new and unique experience for those who attend.
They perform regularly here at ULM, as do other musicians. Students are encouraged to attend these performances, both music and non-music majors alike.
