By David Poulos, Staff Writer
Health science major and German and music double minor Abbey Jemison ’24 and music education major and peace and justice studies minor Michael Tropp ’25 performed a joint honorary recital on Mar. 1 in Paul Recital Hall. The recital included selections with an emphasis on brass such as “Action,” which was performed by both Jemison and Tropp. The remaining pieces were performed by Jemison and Tropp individually in an alternating pattern.
Music Education Major and Peace and Justice Studies Minor Michael Tropp ’25
Tropp performed “Encuentros,” “Ballade” and “Sonata.” Jemison performed “Concerto in B-flat major,” “En Forêt” and “Concerto No. 4.” Tropp’s part of the performance incorporated pieces he discovered during his time at Gettysburg College and pieces he chose specifically for the recital.
“I wanted to make sure to have a diverse group of composers, and I thought it was cool that I was able to get mostly living composers for the pieces I played on,” Tropp said. “The trombone has less historical repertoire than a lot of other instruments because it wasn’t a solo instrument until much more recent history, and as a result, I have a unique ability to play a lot more modern music than a lot of musicians.”
Tropp spoke on why he chose to do a joint recital: “Last spring, my trombone professor suggested that I think about doing a junior recital, which isn’t required for music education majors. I have been friends with Abbey since my first semester of my first year, and when I found out that she was also thinking about doing an honors recital, I sent her a text in Vienna, and we decided to do a joint recital!”
Reflecting on his time at Gettysburg College, Tropp expressed his appreciation for the college:
“I’ve really enjoyed Gettysburg. Of course, it has had its ups and downs, but I am glad I chose to come here, and I’m really looking forward to my last few semesters.”
Tropp offered advice for future or current conservatory students: “My advice to future conservatory students and really anyone at Gettysburg would be to do what you’re passionate about. I’ve doubted whether or not music is actually for me so many times throughout my life, but I know it’s what I love, so no matter where my life takes me, music will always be a part of it. Play or sing in the ensembles, even if you don’t want to major or minor in music. If it’s something you love, find a way to do it!”
Next spring Tropp will be student teaching and hopes to eventually get his masters degree.
