January 2006 Newsletter

Dear Hornist, Recently Atkinson Horns displayed at the UCSB Horn Clinic hosted by Professor Steven Gross Jan. 7-8 at the UC Santa Barbara campus. Title of this event was “Disciplining the Horn”. Lectures and performances were given by Dr. Michael Hatfield of Indiana Univ. School of Music in Bloomington, Dr. John Ericson faculty teacher at Arizona State Univ., Dr. Sean Kierman of Univ. Cape Town South Africa, Laurence Lowe faculty teacher at BYU, Steve Durnin LA freelancer and Los Angeles studio hornist James Thatcher. Other fine players included Scott Hartman and many others who will be at the fore front of horn playing very soon. Thanks to Dr. Gross for putting on such a well organized and informative weekend. Also in the month of Jan. Atkinson Horns displayed and lectured at the annual “Arizona Interstate Horn Retreat A.I.R.” Jan. 13-16th hosted by Dr. Karen McGale. Lectures were given Mark Atkinson entitled “Geyer horns custom made or factory produced”. Guest artist again were Dr. John Ericson faculty teacher at Arizona State University and the incomparable and lovely Gail Williams of Chicago Symphony Orchestra recently retired although for me she will always be Gail Williams permanent member of the CSO. Many student and active amateurs were in attendance and a informative and good time was had by all. Met many new friends some of whom came as far as Idaho and Colorado. Young and older were bonded by a love of the Horn. Special thanks to Dr. McGale for her gracious hosting and organization. Atkinson Horns were well received at both Horn events. Some players were indeed kind enough to share there constructive criticisms which helps us to reevaluate and make better Horns. Next shows event will be display at OMEA-Ohio (Booth # 502) And TMEA-Texas (Booth # 2008).