I’m a euphonium player based in Philadelphia, PA. I’m an experienced soloist and ensemble musician, and I would love to play with your band, quintet, or brass choir.
I received a MMUs in euphonium performance at TCU under the tutelage of Richard Murrow, and I’ve learned from numerous tuba and euphonium players from around the world.
Whether you need a high level euphonium player for a gig, concert, or one-off coaching session, get in touch – I’m also happy to meet other local euphonium players, so even if you just want someone to play duets with, let me know.
—Adam
Euphonium Recordings
What’s a Euphonium, Anyways?
Every time a euphonium is described as a “small tuba,” an angel loses his wings.
In reality, the euphonium is simply a brass instrument with a conical bore (meaning the tubes gradually expand, like a cone), valves, and a beautiful tenor voice. The Greek word euphonos, meaning “sweet sound,” serves as the basis for the name, and when the euphonium is played well, it lives up to its nomenclature.
The euphonium has served primarily as a Wind Band instrument throughout its history. With exceptions — like the Mars theme from Gustav Holst’s work “The Planets” — the euphonium has generally been left out of orchestral repertoire. That’s because it occupies the same range as the trombone, and the euphonium wasn’t invented in its modern form until long after the orchestra’s structure was solidified.
Most euphoniums these days have four valves (only beginner models and antique models have three), and most intermediate and professional euphoniums are “compensating.” Compensating horns have extra tubing to “compensate” for the pitchiness of lower registers, and when the fourth valve is depressed, air is redirected through the extra tubing, thereby correcting the pitch.
My History With the Euphonium
I was handed a euphonium when I was nine years old, and it came naturally to me right from the beginning (a testament to my father’s ability to “scout” young wind musicians — he’s a band director).
Throughout high school, I won numerous awards in the Greater Philadelphia region (Tri County young artists competition, Kennett Symphony young artists competition, etc.), and I played first-chair euphonium for PMEA bands when my athletics schedule would allow. In college, I racked up awards from MTNA and the US Army Band soloist competition.
I received a full ride to TCU in euphonium for grad school, and I received a silver medal from the Young Texas Artists competition, was invited to the Leonard Falcone International Tuba and Euphonium competition, and placed in the TMEA regional conference competition.
I took a hiatus from the euphonium following grad school, but I’m now back into the game in the Philadelphia region. If you’d like to “talk shop,” play ensemble music, or hire me for a gig, I’d love to hear from you.