Master class on the euphonium

MIDDLETOWN — What is a euphoniumist? The word is a mouthful.

On Wednesday, October 24, 2012, you can find out by coming to the master class that professional euphoniumist, Sergeant First Class Jason D. Ham, will offer from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Orange Hall, Room 23. This class is free and open to the public.

Ham, who is principal euphonium, U.S. Military Academy Band, will speak on “A Musician’s Life in the Military.” During the master class, Ham will explain and demonstrate the euphonium.

The euphonium is a four-valved, conical-bore brass instrument. It is the tenor-voiced member of the tuba family. It is most often seen and heard in marching bands, in particular military bands, although it also has a classical repertoire. The instrument is played either vertically or horizontally with the bell facing forward.

Ham will give an overview of what military bands exist in the various branches of the service and an inside perspective of how professional musicians work in this system and still have the ability to play with non-military ensembles, thereby giving them the ability to have rich artistic lives.

This Cultural Affairs event is sponsored by the United States Military Academy Band.

Orange Hall is located at the corner of Wawayanda and Grandview Avenues on the Middletown campus of SUNY Orange. Questions may be directed to cultural@sunyorange.edu and 845-341-4891. Also, see web site www.sunyorange.edu/cultural.