The University of North Alabama’s Department of Music held a Senior Recital for senior trumpeter Chloe Carpenter on Nov. 10.
The recital took place in the Recital Hall of the UNA Music Building, where Carpenter performed several pieces in collaboration with pianist Karen Cantrell.
Carpenter’s recital pieces were selected for her by Dr. Joseph Gray, her trumpet instructor during her time at UNA. She says that Gray selected her pieces to help her focus on certain trumpet techniques in her studies this semester.
“My second piece, Concert Etude – that one is primarily for double-tonguing,” said Carpenter. “It is supposed to help trumpet players master the technique.”
Out of all the pieces she played during her performance, Framed by Cecilia McDowall was Carpenter’s favorite because of its sentimental value to her.
“I picked that piece because Dr. Gray played that my first year,” said Carpenter. “I thought it was amazing.”
Carpenter said that working with Gray helped her grow a lot as a trumpeter. She said that his background in the United States Army shows through in his strict, yet fair teaching style.
Gray has been Carpenter’s trumpet teacher for the past three years, since she transferred to UNA from Northwest Shoals Community College. In addition to teaching both her and other trumpet students, Gray is the Associate Director of Bands at UNA.
“She’s a really fun person,” said Gray about his experience working with Carpenter. “She’s got a very boisterous personality.”
He also spoke of Carpenter’s growth as a musician and trumpeter. He said that she had advanced specifically in her articulation on the trumpet, which was displayed by the double-tonguing techniques displayed in Concert Etude.
Carpenter’s performance was enjoyed by audience members as well. William Cochran, a mellophone player and Music Education major at UNA spoke highly of her skill.
“I think it was really good,” said Cochran. “Her tone was very round and warm. I think she played very well.”
