Climactic sound: Explore the evolving role of the trumpet during interactive presentations

Sep. 1—Learn about the evolving role of the trumpet in opera during an interactive presentation by conductor and educator Oliver Prezant and master trumpeter Peter Bond.

During the presentation, Bond will play excerpts from Baroque as well as classical and romantic operas, according to an event news release. He also will play a famous aria and explore the influence of 19th century Romantic "bel canto" singing on the craft of trumpet playing. Prezant will share insight on the music, the composers, and the librettists.

The Operatic Trumpet presentation will take place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6, at Robertson & Sons Violin Shop, 3201 Carlisle Blvd. NE.

"The trumpet is a great instrument, Peter is a great trumpet player," Prezant said in the news release. "We've been having a really good time talking about the relationship of great singing and great trumpet playing, which really became a thing when valves were introduced in the early 1800s."

Prezant added that he and Bond decided to gather different trumpets to give attendees an insider's view of how trumpet playing has changed over time. The duo also wanted to provide insight on how writing for the trumpet became more operatic when valves were introduced in the early 1800s.

"In addition to playing all kinds of music, from marching band to the circus to big band jazz to the classic symphonic repertoire, Peter spent 28 years in the orchestra at the Metropolitan Opera in New York," Prezant stated. "So he knows a thing or two about opera."

Prezant has been lecturing in Santa Fe about the same time that Bond has spent in orchestra.

"We both played in the New Mexico Symphony back in the day, when I was a violist, so we have common roots there, too," Prezant explained. "And yes, you're going to hear the famous 'Ride of the Valkyries' during the presentation, we promise, and lots of other famous music, too."

On Sept. 29, the duo will present a free youth and family program titled, "Sound the Trumpet!" The presentation will take place from 2 to 3 p.m. at Robertson & Sons Violin Shop. The event is free and attendees are required to register at oliverprezant.com.

Prezant and Bond will take "Sound the Trumpet!" attendees on a guided tour of modern and historic trumpets and trumpet playing, according to the news release. Bond will perform famous excerpts from orchestral and operatic music as well as fanfares, bugle calls and jazz licks. Prezant will discuss the music and the history of the trumpet.

The Operatic Trumpet and "Sound the Trumpet!" are productions of Opus OP Arts and Education Projects. Its mission is to provide unique arts experiences and education programs that deepen participants' appreciation and understanding of music through exploration, discovery, personal involvement, and reflection primarily in Santa Fe and northern New Mexico.