Aspiring trumpet players from UCLA triumph at the National Trumpet Contest held in Lexington, Kentucky
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The National Trumpet Competition (NTC), established in 1991, has built a reputation for showcasing exceptional musical talent and fostering a diverse range of musicians. This year, the competition in Lexington, KY, was no exception, with a host of talented young performers taking to the stage.
Among them was Ellen Shinogle, a graduate student at UCLA, who won first prize in the Blackburn Trumpets Graduate Solo Division. Shinogle's performance, accompanied by Matthew Tong, was met with high praise from Jens Lindemann, the head of the Brass Area in the UCLA Department of Music.
The UCLA trumpet students also made a strong impression in the ensemble category. The entire group, including Ellen Shinogle, performed admirably, showcasing the depth of talent nurtured at the university.
The NTC has a history of attracting high-profile musicians. Past performers include Phil Smith, Doc Severinsen, Canadian Brass, Mnozil Brass, and Grammy Award winners Chris Botti, Maynard Ferguson, and Randy Brecker.
One standout performer from recent years is Issac, a 15-year-old trumpeter who won first place twice consecutively in 2023. His performances highlight the level of exceptional talent that the NTC consistently showcases.
While a comprehensive list of historically associated performers with the NTC was not found in the provided search results, it is clear that the competition attracts elite young performers who achieve high distinctions there. The NTC is known for launching the careers of outstanding trumpeters who go on to significant careers in performance and education.
For those interested in a more detailed list of historic performers or alumni, consulting the official National Trumpet Competition website or affiliated trumpet organizations would be the best next step.
The NTC, the largest instrument competition in the world, offers a prestigious platform for musical performances. The competition gathers highly skilled trumpet soloists—often students or emerging professionals—who compete for awards and recognition in the trumpet community. Many winners and finalists have continued with prominent careers in orchestras, teaching, and solo performance.
As the NTC continues to nurture and showcase the next generation of trumpet talent, it remains a beacon for those passionate about the instrument and its future.
After the competition, Ellen Shinogle, a UCLA graduate student, was seen investing time in education-and-self-development, attending masterclasses to enhance her skills. During her free time, she also enjoyed entertainment, attending local concerts featuring various music genres.
Recognizing the dedication and talent of Issac, the 15-year-old trumpeter who won first place twice consecutively, the NTC organizers arranged for him to perform at a charitable event, using music as a means of entertainment and community engagement.
