My blog has been a lonely place this winter. But it's a new season and some updates are in order!

In April I became the new assistant principal/utility horn for the Illinois Symphony Orchestra.  It was one of those auditions in a series of tries and misses where everything finally seemed to click.  I’ll begin playing with them this fall and I’m excited to perform Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring and Mahler’s Fifth Symphony for the first time! Many people have asked me if I'll be moving to Springfield.  The ISO is not a full-time commitment so I'll still be living and making music in Chicago.

This month marks a milestone for the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic.  We’ll be performing in Symphony Center for the first time on Friday, May 24th! It's such a joy to work with someone as innovative, talented, and kind as Orbert Davis.  Click the banner below for more information!

I’m incredibly excited to say that this fall I’ll be performing Richard Strauss’ first horn concerto with the Midwest Philharmonic Orchestra.  As soon as I have information on the specific date and time I’ll be sure to post it here.  I've had wonderful experiences teaching horn and piano at the Midwest Conservatory of Music, and this past weekend I performed Schumann's Third Symphony with the MPO.  

I've got exciting updates to share! My wind quintet has finally decided on a name: Windswept.  We're also planning a recital for this winter, so stay tuned for more information on the specific date and location! Luke Gullickson's piece "Lost Chorales" will definitely be a part of the recital repertoire.

Nu Directions Chamber Brass is a group I've become involved with this fall through the director of the YOURS Project in Logan Square, Tom Madeja.  I just posted a link under the audio/video portion of this site where you can hear recordings of our last concert on October 5, 2012 at the Chicago Calling Arts Festival. Check it out! 

It is such a relief to have today off!  It's nice to get out of the city just for a day so that I can have some time to myself to practice, exercise, and get energized about new projects.  There's nothing like a gorgeous fall day away from the congestion of the city to give me new focus.  I'm going to be applying for summer orchestral programs, the Chicago Civic Orchestra, and symphony positions in Nashville and Seattle. Time to get into audition mode!

This week I'll be rehearsing with the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic Chamber Ensemble in preparation for our concert, Strings and Things that Swing!, on October 20.  Here is a recent e-blast from the group that includes a profile of me and Talia Pavia.  There is no other way to describe playing with CJP than to say that it is a total blast.  It's a blessing to able to perform with such positive, talented people in a medium I love.  Hope to see you there!