By KRWG News
Las Cruces – Selected among hundreds of audition recordings from musicians around the world, New Mexico State University junior Marcus Flores, a music education major, was chosen as one of three finalists to compete in the International Trumpet Guild Solo Competition at the International Trumpet Guild Conference, May 24-28 in Minneapolis, Minn.
In his first-ever solo competition, Flores will compete with graduate students from Northwestern University and the University of New Mexico.
"I was stunned to find out I was chosen," Flores said. "To be able to play in this competition and showcase what you can do for such a different audience is a great opportunity."
Flores submitted an audition CD to the conference in February with both a required and chosen solo, which he also will perform at the May competition. This year's ITG required selection is the third movement of the Flor Peeters Sonata for trumpet. For his solo, Flores will play the Tomasi Trumpet Concerto.
"I chose the piece because there are a lot of different things going on," Flores said. "It has a tough technique, intense flavor and a lot of expression."
Flores has been playing trumpet since eighth grade. A graduate of Las Cruces High School, he hopes to attend graduate school to study performance after completing his bachelor's degree at NMSU.
"Marcus Flores is a bright, focused individual who is extremely hard working," Associate Professor of Music Frank Romero said. "His performance skills are at the international level and I am certain he will represent NMSU well at this competition."
ITG is a non-profit organization founded in 1974 to promote communications among trumpet players around the world and to improve the artistic level of performance, teaching and literature associated with the trumpet. The guild has more than 6,000 members, represents 64 countries and includes professional and amateur performers, teachers, students, manufacturers, publishers and others interested in belonging to an organization dedicated to the trumpet profession.