CMU Tuba/Euphonium Studio Announcements

2012-01-23T10:24:00.002-05:00

Stdio is in Room 230 today (1/23). Performers are:Will ThompsonNathan JamesChris FennerThanks,Dr. Cox

Chris Fenner's Senior Recital

2011-12-04T08:49:00.001-05:00

Hey y'all,At Dr. Cox's suggestion, here is a reminder of my recital.Recital: Sunday, December 4, 3pm. Food to follow, of course, featuring agourmet cheese platter from Pinconning and desserts made by my wonderful mother. Hopefully this will give everyone a nice break from finals studying(and even if not, Mark has requested that I remind you that it's required).Thanks, and see you at one or both events!-- Chris FennerCentral Michigan UniversityBachelor of Science - MusicKappa Kappa Psi - Lambda Tau Chapter

Masterclass cancellation

2011-11-28T18:34:00.001-05:00

Studio,As you probably suspected, there will be no masterclass tonight. I plan on making up the missed ones sometime next semester. Thanks,Dr. Cox

Monday Lessons

2011-11-26T17:46:00.001-05:00

I hope everybody has had a restful Thanksgiving and are ready to get back to the final two weeks of the semester! Lots to do with not too much time. As for me...rested...kind of. As some of you have been following on FB, Wednesday morning Sarah spiked a BIG fever and I had to rush her down to the Grand Rapids Children's Hospital E. R. We figured she would get the "normal" treatment, antibiotics, a few hours in the ER, and then sent home. Boy, was I wrong. It is now Saturday night and I have basically not left the hospital since then. She keeps spiking a fever about every 5-6 hours. Everything looks absolutely normal on paper, she is acting like her normal self throughout this whole event, but the thermometer says differently. Most of her spikes go up and over 103.0 f. Then she goes back down to a low-grade fever for a while, then spikes again. The doctors say it is nothing to worry about, but we just have to ride it out. She and I will definitely be here tomorrow (Sunday). If she can keep the fever at bay for 12-24 hours, they will let her out. It is 5:50 pm (Sat) and she just spiked another fever (taking a nap now that she has some Tylenol in her).So what does this mean about school. Well, unless something seriously goes wrong here, I will be driving in Monday morning from Grand Rapids for normal lesson times. From there, we will be hour by hour with her. If she gets out Monday, my parents will be there to get her. If not, then we (my parents and I, MJ still can't drive because of her cast) will keep working on solutions, but I am determined to keep as many "normal" lesson times as possible. As new news comes our way, I will try and keep you posted each evening as to developments. Once she gets home, then everything should return to "normal" (as normal as the Cox family can get these days).That's all for now. See you in a few short hours (40).Dr. Cox

Wednesday Lessons

2011-11-22T19:34:00.001-05:00

Hello studio.Wednesday lessons - Sarah is spiking a fever tonight and I SHOULD be driving her to GR right now. I am way too tired to trust myself to stay awake on the way down and back (returning home usually around 3:00 am). Instead, we gave Sarah Tylenol and I will be heading to clinic first thing in the morning. Because it is the day before Thanksgiving, the clinic will most likely be on a skeleton staff and our wait will be long and tedious. With that, I will not be in tomorrow for lessons. I am truly sorry about this. And MJ can't take her for obvious reasons.Keera, will you let the people that you now in Brass Tech who were going to come to class tomorrow that class is cancelled. Thanks and everyone have a safe and restful weekend!!!Dr. Cox

Pianist for Nov. 20th recital

2011-11-15T15:04:00.001-05:00

For those that had MJ as their accompanist, Dr. Tang has offered to step in and play the music for you. I will be getting the music to Dr. Tang tomorrow, so please stop by sometime today or tomorrow to set up a rehearsal time with her. I will (should) be in the office to teach tomorrow. I have a meeting at Shepherd Elem. at 8:00 am, and then will come to CMU. Monday and Tuesday lessons, please stop by and schedule a make-up lesson for later in the week.Dr. CoxPS - as of 2:15 pm, MJ went in for surgery. I am sitting in the waiting room at the hospital and will be here (at the hospital) for most of the evening.

MJ update - Monday night

2011-11-14T21:59:00.001-05:00

Hello all. It looks like I fixed the bug with the email notification of this blog.So here is the update for MJ. We went to the ortho today and he said "you did quite a number on your ankle." He then told her that she needed surgery and that he would be doing it TOMORROW (Tuesday). She will need a plate and screws on one side of her ankle and just screws on the other. She will spend the night in the hospital and get out on Wednesday. The prognosis: no weight-beaing for 8 weeks. Several different types of casts. No driving for 8 weeks. So what does this mean.1. No lessons tomorrow. I will be in the hospital with her for the day. I am planning on making up the lessons either on Friday (in between sessions with Instrumental Workshop) or on Saturday (and possibly Sunday). As I know more about how she is doing, I will then contact you individually (Monday and Tuesday lessons) and reschedule the lessons.2. Wednesday night is Harvest Dinner at the Presby. Lots of turkey and great food. Free and open to anyone. Those older students who have gone to it, please offer rides to ones who can't get there, or, who have not experienced the feast. The food is free. If you want to make something and bring a plate to "pass," (buffet style) please feel free (again, you are not required to do it). - CF - you will be playing the second part of the night, around 6:35. The saxophones will be performing at the beginning.3. Studio recital (20 Nov.) - MJ is not sure if she is going to be able to play for those that need her for the Sunday, 20 Nov. recital. If she can't, she (and I) will try to find a replacement for you. IF you have somebody you want to use, please feel free to GET THEM NOW.4. There is a Miraphone M5000 Ambassador compensating euphonium for sale by a former student of mine. Mint condition. Cost $6,500, willing to sell it for $4,500-$5,000. If interested, please let me know.5. Instrumental Workshop is Friday. Here is the schedule: -CMU Instrumental Workshop November 18, 20118:00 Registration - - Music Building Lobby Staples Family Concert Hall-Central Wails8:30 Presentation for all instruments-“What is Music…really?” Staples Family Concert Hall9:15 WW, Perc.- Staples Family Concert Hall Keyboard - room 218 Trumpets - room 156 Tuba/Euphonium - room 157 (you do not need your instruments. If you are free, please be here and help conduct a breathing seminar. You will each have 3-5 students to teach breathing to towards the end) Horns - room 217 Trombones - room 155 Violin - room 230 231 (viola), 119 (cello), 173 (basses) Viola - room 231 Cello - room 119 String Bass - room 17310:30 Brass - Staples Family Concert Hall (T/E studio Not needed. But, come hear the first performance of the faculty brass quintet Keyboard - room 218 Flutes - Chamichian Recital Hall Clarinets - room 157 Oboes - room 230 Saxophones - room 156 Bassoons - room 231 Violins - room 217 Violas - room 236 Cello - room 119 String Basses - room 173 Percussion - room 15511:45 LUNCH (on your own) Percussion - 156 1:00 Strings – Chamichian Recital Hall Flutes - Moore Kiva Oboes - lobby Clarinets - rooms 230 & 231, bass clarinets - room 218 Saxophones - room 156 Bassoons - lobby Trumpet - Staples Family Concert Hall Horn - room 217 Trombone – room 155 Tuba/Euphonium - room 157 (T/E Studio. Bring your horns to perform Christmas carols with the high school students. CF and I will also be performing at this slot). Percussion – TBA 2:15 Keyboard - Chamichian Recital Hall Strings - room 156 Winds & Percussion - CMU Symphonic Wind Ensemble Performance, Staples Family Concert Hall 3:00 Departure---------I think that is about it for now. Keep MJ in your thoughts over the next few days. She is extremely frustrated that she can't play right now. If you need me tomorrow, and IT IS IMPORTANT, then give my cell phone a call. Most likely I will be at the hospital all day.That's it for now. Again, thanks for your patience.Dr. CoxPS - CF, don't forget you are also playing for the Honor Band concert on Sunday.

2011-11-14T21:57:00.001-05:00

(This is getting reposted for the 2nd time. It seems that the blog has not beens sending out emails. I hope I have this fixed. I did not receive a copy of my own email, like I always do. If you received it last two times, then please just ignore it. Thank you).OK, everyone (originally sent Sunday night).The Cox adventure continues. As some of you heard Friday night at the studio party, my wife called and said she was being taken to the Reed City (look it up on a map) E. R. because she fell and hurt her ankle. Sarah and MJ were at Springfield Camp for the weekend. They had just gotten there a few hours earlier. While at a concert, MJ stepped on a stair and directly onto someone's shoes. When she fell, she said her ankle sounded like a big branch breaking. I arrived at the ER at 10:40 pm. They X-rayed her right ankle and found that she had fractured it in three different spots. After much debate, a second set of X-rays, they decided not to send her via ambulance to Grand Rapids, but let her go home in a temporary cast. I went to the camp and picked up Sarah (1:00 am) and went back to the ER to get MJ. By the time they us out of there, we did not get home until 4:00 am!!! So, to say the least, things have once again drastically changed around our house. For the time being, MJ can't: drive, play piano, cook, teach, etc.So here is what I need from you all (mostly a little patience as we work our way through this next week).1a. MJ has an orthopedic appointment SOMETIME tomorrow. We do not have a time, yet. We will call first thing in the morning to find out when. Once I know the time, I will need to contact those who have lessons and move them around. Since I missed last week lessons because I was sick, I don't want to postpone tomorrow to another day. Instead, I want to find a time TOMORROW to teach your lesson. This is going to take A LOT of arranging on my part. Tomorrow is also PART 4 Playing/Written exam for Brass Tech!!! I will have my GA (Jeff Crabtree) give the entire exam. That opens a lot of time for me. Again, I will not know when the appointment is until tomorrow in the a. m.1b. As I get to know the schedule for tomorrow, lessons may either be at their normal times; taught in the early afternoon, or in the late afternoon (depending on YOUR schedule).1c. Drew and Sammy - would you send me your cell phone number so I can contact you. Dan W., I already have yours.2. Tomorrow night I will have to cancel the masterclass. MJ can't be left alone for now. She is not great with the crutches and has almost fallen a couple of times. And with the kids around...you can imagine.3. After the orhto appointment tomorrow morning, we will know a WHOLE LOT more of what MJ can/can't do. We are not sure whether she will have to have surgery or not! So, if you have her as an accompanist for the studio recital on the 20th, and want to find another pianist, that is fine. She totally understands. The ortho might tell her she can't play piano for an extended amount of time. OR, he might let her play after she has a permanent cast on. More by the afternoon. I will send out a message once I know.4. Tuesday lessons should be fine, as far as I can tell. The trombone ensemble concert is still required, but I won't be able to be there. Again, MJ can't be left alone with the kids. (She can't get up and down well, let alone get up and down the stairs).Again, I am once again asking for you patience over the next few days. More later. Thanks,Dr. Cox

2011-11-07T11:14:00.000-05:00

Studio.Though I am not in my office today, we WILL be having the dress rehearsal TONIGHT as planned. Please be in your seat ready to play by 8:00 pm. As to me, my family have all been sick and I have been trying to avoid it at all cost. Unfortunately, last night I started to get a soar throat, which has only gotten worse today (along with other minor symptoms). By staying home today, I am hoping it does not get a hold of me as it did my wife.See you tonight at 8:00 pm.Dr. Cox

2011-10-16T08:43:00.001-04:00

Good morning all. For those in the marching band, great job at homecoming...you did us proud!IAnd, for anybody interested, I just received this email from SSG Lafosse about the 2012 National Collegiate Solo Competition:"Classification: UNCLASSIFIEDThe United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own,” is pleased to announce the call for entries for the 2012 National Collegiate Solo Competition!The winner of this competition will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, DC, to be the featured soloist with The U.S. Army Concert Band in two live performances on June 8 and 9, 2012 as part of its Summer Concert Series.Requirements:* Open to woodwind, brass, and percussion instrumentalists currently enrolled in a college, university, or conservatory in the United States.* Must be age 27 or under as of January 1, 2012.* Repertoire selected by applicant must exist as a published band arrangement.* Application packet with CD must be postmarked by March 16, 2012.Application Procedures:* Submit a CD recording of applicant performing up to two movements of musical selection with piano accompaniment.* Completed and signed application with CD must be postmarked by Friday, March 16, 2012.For additional information, please visit our website (www.usarmyband.com) or contact me at aubrey.lafosse@us.army.mil.Best wishes,SSG LafosseClassification: UNCLASSIFIED"If you are interested in applying, please let me know. Have a great Sunday...get some rest!Dr. Cox

Masterclass for 9/26 cancelled

2011-09-26T08:39:00.001-04:00

Studio,I am sorry to say that I must cancel the masterclass for tonight (9/26/11). I have another commitment that has arisen over the weekend. So, we will move this masterclass (Warm-ups, etc.) to next week. I am really enjoying these classes and feel bad about having to do this. I am hoping that this is the only on I have to cancel for the semester. Thank you for your understanding.Dr. Cox

Studio Recitals

2011-09-14T12:51:00.002-04:00

Studio,The studio recital sign-up sheets are now on the bulletin board outside my office. Please stop by ASAP and sign up for a date (Nov. 6 and 20). You will need:1) Title of work2) Composer3) Composer's birth and death dates4) Arranger5) Movement titles (use tempo markings if there are no titles)6) Accompanist7) Total time of workThere are seven (7) slots available for each recital. There is NO room for an eighth person on either recital, so please do NOT add onto the list.Thanks,Dr. Cox

Grant writing session

2011-09-11T15:58:00.002-04:00

Studio,I hope this email finds you having a restful and relaxing weekend! As a reminder, there is a grant writing session tonight at 8:00 pm in room 230 for those who will be applying for competitions this year. All are welcome, even If you are not applying for a competition but want to see how a grant is written. See you in a few hours.Dr. Cox

Monday night masterclasses

2011-08-29T15:18:00.002-04:00

Studio,
Don't forget, the first Monday Night Masterclass starts tonight. It is NOT mandatory, but I would love it if many of you came.

Time: 7-9
Room: 230
Topic: Introduction to Proper Breathing
Things needed: nothing for tonight

Hopefully I will see you there.
Dr. Cox

PS - invite any of your friends to come to these classes as well.

CF Auditions

2011-08-27T20:28:00.001-04:00

Congrats to the newest members of Central Foundation: Will Thompson (euph) and Danielle Van Tuinen (euph). Great auditions!

Studio party

2011-08-25T14:07:00.002-04:00

Can anyone give Blake a ride out to the party? His number is: 989.400.5146.
Many Thanks,
Dr. Cox

Classes begin tomorrow (Tuesday)

2011-08-22T21:25:00.002-04:00

Hello all.
Classes will back in session tomorrow (Tuesday, 23 August 2011). Studio class SHOULD be for everyone BUT freshmen (freshmen should have orientation). For everyone else, meet at my office (no studio hours are up yet - still a work in progress). No instruments. As to the rest of the week:

- Tuesday - Lesson are normal
- Thursday - All School of Music Convocation
-Thursday evening, starting at/around 6:00 pm - studio party at my house
- Friday - C. F. Auditions (time - TBA) for euphoniums (sorry, no tuba openings right now)

That is all for now. See you soon,

Dr. Cox

Fall 2011 Studio Information

2011-07-18T13:32:00.002-04:00

Hello all!!!

I hope you are having as great a summer as I am. After the craziest year of my life, things are starting to get back to normal. My family and I recently travelled to northeast for a three week vacation in Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Maine and New Hampshire. Stats for the vacation: 4,300 miles in the Insight, 7 ferries, 1 whale watching tour, 9 hotels, 5 lobster rolls, 1 hardshell lobster, 1 HAGAS (look it up), and more than 4,000 photos for the trek. We are now back at home and will be here until Falcone week (August 12-15).

Sarah, as of last Friday, just celebrated 1 year of remission from her Leukemia. That means, as long as she stays in remission, there will only be a single trip per month for chemo treatment until September, 2012. Much better than the 14,000+ miles and 37 days in the hospital that she and I had to do last year.

With that, I am so looking forward to getting back to my office and teaching. New things for me: I have OFFICIALLY stepped down as Advertising Coordinator for ITEA last week. I sent in my resignation and even had to write the job description for the group. This means that the only external group that I will be working with this year is Falcone as the Music Coordinator (I gave up my job as web designer last year with them).

This can be seen as both good and bad for you guys (more work for you=more knowledge). I will be focusing a lot of energy at the studio. Here is what I have in mind:
- Monday nights: non-required masterclasses discussing the basics - breathing, tonguing, mouthpiece buzzing, excerpts, etc. Open to all.
- Projects - I used to make the studio do a major project each semester, but somehow this faded away a couple of years ago. I will be starting this back up for the fall semester. Topics in the past: major teachers and their locations; pedagogy topics; recordings; composing a work for the T/E ensemble, etc.
- C. F. more local outings for the group. If you are interested in playing with C. F., please let me know by mid-August (via my cox1ms@cmich.edu account).

More things in the works that I is not ready for public consumption. So as you can see, my engines are charged, body rested, and ready to go. If you have any questions, you know how to find me. Stay cool and see you in just a few short weeks,

Dr. Cox

Falcone Festival 2011

2011-05-02T13:22:00.002-04:00

A HUGE congrats to Dan Wilhelm for being selected as one of the ten semi-finalists for the 2011 Tuba Artist Division of the Leonard Falcone International Tuba and Euphonium Festival. Dan will have a lot of work ahead of him preparing for the competition (early August). If you have the time, please lend Dan an ear, an opinion, or support over the next couple of months.

All the best, Dan.

Dr. Cox

Studio Party - Friday Night (Tomorrow)

2011-04-28T19:23:00.002-04:00

Hello all.

I have been checking around this afternoon (after I got home from G. R. with Sarah) for bowling options. The best option looks like the SAC. They won't take reservations until 3:00 pm tomorrow (for tomorrow night, Friday). With that said, we should have no problems reserving the lanes. I will call at that time and reserve three lanes for 4:30 pm. I will pick up the cost of bowling. After we get bored with bowling, then the party will move to Freddie's for dinner and darts. Mary Jo will be coming along as well. If you can't make the bowling, then just call someone in the studio to see which location we are at if/when you decide to join us at Freddie's. If you do not know where Freddie's is, again, just ask one of the older students for directions. If you have any questions, please call me at home tonight and I will try to answer them for you. Hope to see all of you there!

Dr. Cox and Dr. Cox

Wednesday and Sarah

2011-01-25T21:19:00.002-05:00

Hello all.
Since Scott is not in this week, and all goes well, I believe I will be in the office for part of the day. If you need me, please stop and knock (or just stop by and say 'hi.'). I will be working on MWRTEC (what a surprise).

The second reason for this email, is to let you in on the latest developments with Sarah. She is fine, just a lot of big changes in her chemo therapy. We went to the hospital yesterday and came up with a number of surprises. I wrote a long diatribe on Facebook last night for friends and family and received a lot of interesting (and positive) comments from them. After thinking about it today, I thought I would cut and paste the comments that i wrote in FB last night for you to read. This should give you some insight on what we have been going through over the last seven months. What you are about to read is nothing new. We often ran into problems like this, just not so many all in one day. No comments are necessary. Just thought all would be interested.

The opening of the post is responding to a couple of previous comments from friends.

See some of you tomorrow.
M.

Facebook post (1/25/11):

"As to Sarah getting better, yes --whatever it takes! However, today was the worst possible day to throw this major curveball at us.

We had been up since 4:45 am to drive two+ hours on snow-covered roads. We walked into clinic, everybody was "a buzz" that Sarah was FINALLY at the maintenance mode. Got the tour of the new hospital. Sarah had a spinal tap and had one of her hardest times "waking up" from the Propofol. She was queasy and needed Zophran to calm her stomach. Vinchristine (chemo) was given through her port and she was deaccessed. The medicines were ordered at the pharmacy and ready to be picked up. We were minutes away from fighting the icy roads back home (only this time in daylight) when the PA came in and said the doctor needed to talk to us. When the doctor came in and sat down to talk to me "eye-to-eye", I knew something was wrong.

The two (fairly new) studies that were going on had sent a notice this morning to the hospital saying that the studies were closed and they had ALREADY come to their conclusion. The kids on Sarah's study, the normal way to treat A.L.L., needed to be switched to the new method. And with that, Sarah's group needed to "catch-up" with the other group, thus, they needed high doses of Methotrexate administered to them. She will need to have four, four-day (minimum) hospital stays over the next 2 months. She will have the drug (as well as several others, including more spinal taps) and stay in the hospital until it has exited her body. We decided that the best way to do it is go in at 8:00 am on Thursday for the spinal tap and not leave until Sunday (at the earliest).

MJ and I have moved "heaven and earth" to get us to this point, and the doctor agreed to let us start this on Thursday, 10 February. This allows us to be free for both the conference that I am putting on (MWRTEC), and, more importantly, Sarah singing in La Boheme. The other three dates for her stay are: Feb 24th, March 10th and March 24th.

As for clinic, they are convening ALL the children's oncologists and bone marrow specialists this Wednesday to discuss the results of the study. In the middle of their discussion is Sarah! She is on the crack of the study's results, so they need to brainstorm to see if this is truly the correct way to go (though our oncologist is fairly sure that they will go down this avenue). The bigger picture is, this changes a LOT of how they will treat all new A.L.L. patients. The biggest question, "how come the study came to a close so soon." I believe the doctors expected the study to go quite a bit longer.

The one interesting thing from this is, the overall time frame is still the same. Sarah will finish with ALL medicines on:
23 September 2012. Yes, they have a definite date for us (which I just found out today).

PS - the last time she was subjected to a lower dose of oral Methotrexate, she got sick and lost all of her hair. This time it will be given at even higher doses, thus the hospital stays."

Room for 2 needed

2011-01-14T12:27:00.002-05:00

Hello all from Grand Rapids!
Today is Sarah's LAST DAY of hardcore chemo. We have a short break and then go into "Maintenance." This is a WHOLE lot easier for all of us. Sarah will have to take oral chemo for two years and have spinal taps once a month. BUT THAT'S IT!!

Anyway, the real reason for this email. We have two people coming to visit, check us out, and audition for CMU. One is looking for a grad school for this coming year, the other for the year after that. Does anyone have space to put the two up? They need housing for this Monday and Tuesday nights. One is Andrea Miller. She is a tuba player who is graduating from Univ. of Wisconsin, Eau Claire. If accepted (and she decided to come), she would be our grad assist for the next two years. The other person traveling with her is another member of the Eau CLair studio. I am drawing a blank on his name right now (yes, a guy), but he is a junior looking for grad school for the fall of 2012.

If you have the room, please respond "Reply All" when answering this email. Also, I will need someone to "look after them." I am asking one of Mary Jo's grad students to take them around to classes, but they will have down times and need a tour of the university.

Thanks and hope the semester started off great.

Dr. Cox

News on Dan Turchyn

2011-01-06T19:40:00.002-05:00

Studio,
After an email from the Chair of the Department at Oakland University, I just found out tonight "officially" that Dan Turchyn has transferred to Oakland University. I know some of you had heard rumors about this last month, but the first I heard about this was only a couple of days ago, and unfortunately, from a couple of your colleagues and not from Dan, himself. This leaves us in a couple of awkward situations. Central Foundation is in need of a new player. The group is supposed to be performing at MWRTEC on a 1/2 concert. I will let you know VERY soon what my decision will be about this group. The Brass Band will also be in need of a new player. I would be willing to move people around (ex: baritone to euphonium) and/or add another person into the group. Let me know if you want to join or change instruments. I told Professor Williamson about this possibility yesterday. He will make his own decisions as what to do about seating arrangements in the major ensembles.

It is unfortunate that I found out about Dan leaving this way. I would hope, with all of you, if you were not to return to CMU, you would do me the courtesy of informing me when/if you were to make that decision. I never want a student to stay with me, or at CMU, if they are unhappy. I would not be upset --saddened, probably...but not upset. I obviously want to work with all of you, because I invited you to join me in the studio here at CMU. I know last semester was unfortunate and odd with Sarah being diagnosed with cancer (and with all my trips to Grand Rapids because of that). It was not the best semester of teaching that I have ever done. Obviously the health of my daughter trumped many things. I will say that when I come back in the fall, I will be refreshed and look forward to a great semester working with all of you.

Thank you and I hope you have a wonderful semester.
Dr. Cox

Spring Lesson Schedule

2011-01-06T14:29:00.002-05:00

FYI from Scott Hanson -
The sign up sheet for Spring 2011 lessons is now hanging in its normal spot. His teaching hours will be:

Tuesday (he will get here for studio class) - 12:00-5:00 pm (ending at 5:00)
Wednesday - 8:00-5:00 pm with a lunch break from 1:00-2:00 pm
Thursday - 8:00-11:00 am (he will leave after studio class)

Central Foundation will schedule a coaching time with him sometime during the first week of classes.

Thank you,

Dr. Cox (for Mr. Hanson)

New Year

2010-12-31T12:57:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone.
I hope you all are having a restful break! Was Santa good to you? Life here in wet, soggy Mt. Pleasant (my garage partially flooded today from the warm weather, the snow melting, and the rain. Nothing got damaged) is busy as usual. We have been busy with Sarah's chemo treatments, a quick trip to Chicago, and family and friends occasionally visiting. It seems like I have been down at the office every day this week and most days last week (along with Professor Nichol) getting the ITEA winter journal advertising completed and lots and lots of small details down for MWRTEC.

In the meantime, I just realized that I did not send out the "official" announcement of my sabbatical replacement. After lots of talks with Dr. L'Hommedieu, we finally decided on hiring Scott Hansen to teach BOTH the tubas and euphoniums. Scott studied with Dan Perantoni back at Arizona State University the same time as Dr. Lindahl. He is very excited about teaching all of you. He and I have been on the phone several times a week (which is funny, because the times I am not on the phone with him, I am on the phone with Deanna about MWRTEC) trying to get it all planned out. He will be added to this account so he can send out group announcements, or, individual ones as needed. He will be contacting each of you individual over the next couple of weeks, trying to get items in order for your first lesson.

I am confident that you will enjoy taking lessons from him. His teaching style will most likely be very different from mine, but has established himself over the years as a well-respected teacher and performer. Scott is highly active in the tuba/euphonium world. He has currently taken on the treasurers position with ITEA (I tell him who to send the invoices to for ITEA), and is the Falcone competition CD coordinator (he took my old position that drove me nuts in early April) as of last year. He and Deanna travel the world dealing with tuba and euphonium issues. He is known by everyone in the industry, and again, is highly respected. So, go into your lessons with an open mind, try new things, take what works and remember what doesn't work. Even the items that don't work for you now will some day work for one of your students!

And yes, you will be seeing me around way too much. With all the little items that keep cropping up with MWRTEC, it seems that I need to be at school way more than I should have to.

As to Sarah's chemo. We are down to 14 more days of the hard stuff. After January 14th, we head into a much easier process called "Maintenance." That will be once a month trips to G. R. (for two years) and a bunch of oral medications for her. She is doing well. Though, we almost had a couple of trips to the hospital, but managed to stay out of it. She has lost all of her remaining hair. But hopefully in the next couple of months it will start growing back.

Have a great New Year's Eve and be careful driving if you are out and about tonight. If you need something from me over the next couple of weeks, please call the house. If I am not there, leave a message and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

Thanks,
Mark

Music Return

2010-12-06T09:57:00.002-05:00

It is that time of year...time to return that music that you checked out for "two weeks." When you get the chance, please either:
1. Stop by the office and refile the music, or
2) Leave it at the front office WITH MY NAME ON IT (on a Post-It)

I do not want my music going to your home for the break. Too often, the music either does not return, or, it takes weeks/months to get it back.

Thanks,

Dr. Cox

Tuba Room painting and repair

2010-12-06T08:50:00.003-05:00

Tuba players,
I need to ask a favor. We need to have your tubas out of the tuba room by tomorrow (7 December) for painting and restoration to the room. They are going to replace the drywall behind the racks, and maybe put some plywood in to protect the back walls, as well as paint the entire room. If you need some place to store your instruments for a couple of days, they can be placed in the Brass Tech/Marching Band storage room (between 155 and 156, where the sousaphones are kept). If you do not move your horn, then the painters or Dan Koefoed will move your instrument there for you.

Thanks and have a great (and well-deserved) break.

Dr. Cox

Wednesday Lessons for Dec. 1st

2010-11-29T19:02:00.002-05:00

For those of you that have lessons (except Chelsea) on Wednesday, 1 December 2010, I just found out this afternoon that we (Sarah and I) will have to be at clinic for most of the day on Wednesday. They are requiring that I be there. Thus, I will need (and want to) reschedule your lesson (Tuesday people, your lessons are fine). Please stop by my office sometime tomorrow to reschedule your lesson to later in the week (Thursday or Friday), or sometime during final's week. I am truly sorry for this. I could put in for a 'sick day' and not have to make up the lessons, but there is NO WAY that I want to do that. So please stop by and get a new time. As I told you earlier in the semester, this segment of chemo is called "Delayed Intensification," words and calendar Mary Jo and I have been dreading. The last day of this segment is January 14th (it was just moved from the 5th to the 14th, adding nine more days to the segment) and life gets back to some normality.

I am sorry this semester has been so strange and I (and my wife) truly want to thank all of you for being so patient!

AND - MY DOOR LOOKS GREAT!!!!

Dr.'s Cox

Brass Band Personnel

2010-11-29T18:57:00.002-05:00

After conferring with my colleagues and Dr. Campbell, I have finally put together a list for next semester's brass band. Since we are not having auditions this semester (we will starting in the Fall of 2011), prior brass band performers were placed first. The open seats were my decision and my decision only. I took into account a number of items before I made the placements. So, here is the list:

Baritone 1 - Ryan Grainer
Baritone 2- William Thompson

Euphonium 1 - Daniel Turchyn
Euphonium 2 - Danielle VanTuinen

High Tuba 1- Daniel Wilhelm
High Tuba 2 - Christopher Fenner

Low Tuba 1 - Tyler Dunham
Low Tuba 2 - Adam Graves

If someone from this list does not want to perform, then I will confer with my "waiting list." Please do not ask where you stand on that list. I will only use it if necessary. Don't forget, you MUST sign up for M281B for credit or you can not play.

For the auditions in the fall, we still have to work out the details. As I know more, I will pass them on to you.

Thank you for your patience.

Dr. Cox

Central Foundation Auditions

2010-10-25T18:00:00.002-04:00

Hello all.
After auditions last night, the group has decided that Tyler Dunham will be the next tubist in Central Foundation. I would like to congratulate both him and Adam Graves for auditioning. Tyler will join the group and be on probation (a status everyone who joins C. F. must go through) until the end of the academic year (through April, 2011). Speaking of Tyler, don't forget that tomorrow is our first Brass Area recital featuring him, as well as Jessica Parij and Dan Turchyn. I will see you there.
Dr. Cox

Ensemble Rehearsal Schedule

2010-10-11T19:46:00.002-04:00

Hello everybody.

I have changed the rehearsal schedule to allow the seniors more time to rehearse. In doing this, I have given up some of my rehearsal time. So please, practice the music I am conducting, even though we will not look at it as a group for a while. Here is the future rehearsal schedule:

Oct. 12th (tomorrow) - Room 155
11:00 - Corey Jahlas
11:25 - Jessica Parij

October 14th - Room 230
11:00 - Chelsea Gelisse
11:25 - Katheren Rollins

October 19th - Room 230
11:00 Zach VanderGraaff
11:25 Dan Wilhelm

October 21 - Room 230
11:00-11:50 - Dr. Cox

October 26 - Staple
BRASS AREA RECITAL (Tyler Dunham performing "Triumph of the Demon Gods" by John Stevens)

The rest of the times and people rehearsing will be posted as I figure out who needs the time (Oct 28, Nov. 2, 4, 9, 11)

As to our dress rehearsal - it will be:
SUNDAY - NOVEMBER 14th
Time: 6:00 -10:00 pm
Location: Staples
Everyone is REQUIRED to attend this rehearsal. Start getting out of work, back from visiting family, etc. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Concert is November 16th at 8:00 pm on Staples. Concert call is 6:45. Concert attire is concert black.

I think that is it for now. See you all tomorrow.

Dr. Cox

Studio Class- 21 Sept. 2010

2010-09-21T02:24:00.002-04:00

Just a reminder, you do not need to bring instruments to studio class today. We will be having a visitor, Neal Corwell, who will be performing and giving us a masterclass. Neal is a good friend, great performer and composer. To read up on Dr. Corwell, please visit his site:
http://nealcorwell.com/

We are in room 230 today.

Thank you,
Dr. Cox

Sunday's Masterclass

2010-09-11T09:58:00.003-04:00

Please remember that Sunday's concert and masterclass with Randy Hawes and George Curran are required events (See Dr. Lindahl's email sent out on September 3rd for more information). On top of that, it should be a fantastic concert that most low brass players around the country would die to go to.

Unfortunately for me, I will not be there. Sarah and I are in the hospital (and have been in here since Thursday) and will MAYBE get out tomorrow afternoon (Sunday). She had an anaphylactic reaction to one of her cancer shots and is still have allergic reactions to it. Hopefully I will see all of you sometime on Monday.

Thanks,

Dr. Cox

Friday (9.10.10) - Out of office

2010-09-10T07:57:00.002-04:00

Hello all.
Change of plans. I will NOT be in today (Friday, 10 Sept. 2010) to my office. Sarah had a major allergic reaction at clinic yesterday to one of her medicines and ended us up in the hospital for an overnight stay. She is still having reactions, which means we will most likely be here another night. If you need me, please email me. If it is an EMERGENCY, then call my cell phone.
Have a great day.

Thanks,
Dr. Cox

Studio Class- 7 Sept. 2010

2010-09-07T08:04:00.001-04:00

Studio,
Change in Tuba/Euph ensemble location for today. We are in Staples Recital Hall instead of room 231. See you there.

Dr. Cox

Studio Party

2010-08-26T09:33:00.002-04:00

Hello all.
The studio party for this semester is this Sunday at 3:00 pm out at our house. All you need to bring is your good looks, charm, and personalities - we will supply the rest. If you can't make it until later, this is perfectly fine. Directions to my house has changed a little because of construction. Here they are:

- Take Broomfield Rd. East (towards Midland)
- Cross over Interstate 127
- You come up on a stop light. This is Summerton Rd.
Normally you would keep going straight, but the next two miles of road are under construction.
- Turn RIGHT on Summerton Rd.
- Go one mile
- Turn LEFT on Deerfield Rd.
- Go one mile
-Turn RIGHT on Leaton Rd.
- Drive 3/4 of a mile, my house is one the left.
The address is:
5611 S. Leaton Rd.

The house is white with green shutters and green roof.
For you older people, the barn is NO LONGER there!

If you go too far, the road dead-ends in another 1/4 mile, it dead-ends into the interstate.

If you have dietary issues (vegetarian, allergies, etc.), please let me know.

And - NO ALCOHOL!!!

See you all this Sunday (8/29/10)

The Drs Cox

Welcome Back!

2010-08-13T12:10:00.002-04:00

Hello all.
Hope your summer has treated you well! Ours, obviously, has been hectic, with many trips to Grand Rapids. I have gotten to know that route more than I had ever wanted to. Sarah is doing well, for the most part. Back in July (the day before my birthday - a great present!) her Leukemia was in remission. Though wonderful news, the doctors continue on as if she still has cancer. More on this later.

This looks to be an exciting semester, and year, coming up. We will be hosting, with WMU and Dr. Swoboda, the Midwest Tuba and Euphonium Conference here at CMU in March. An event I am really excited about having on campus. Now, it is not in place yet, Dr. Swoboda is working on it, but I think the guest artists will be the President's Band top quartet. We had them at the Falcone Festival a couple of years ago and they were great! We also have a new interim trumpet professor. As most of you know, after 40+ years teaching here at CMU, Dr. Horton retired. We had a large pool of qualified candidates apply for the one-year position, and am glad to announce that Dr. Edward Phillips will be filling in. He is such a qualified candidate, that if he applies for the permanent position, I am fairly sure he will be one of the ones being considered for it.

As to the Brass Band, the brass faculty are in full support of keeping it going. There are several options we are looking in to, but I can't discuss them at this time. We want to get together as a full body (all four brass teachers) and discuss it in detail next week. So please be patient.

As to lessons this year, here is where it gets a little complicated. I will have to take Sarah down to out-patient clinic either on Monday or Thursday, depending on the week (in a few weeks, we go from every week, to every 10 days, thus the rotation). So, I will be teaching my lessons ALL day Tuesday and Wednesday. I will coaching CF and other groups on Fridays. I have the lesson schedule up on my bulletin board, so please stop by and sign up - first come, first served. And lessons DO start the first week of school. As to Thursday studio classes, the days that I have to be out of town to GR, we will still have Tuba/Euph ensemble. We have, I believe, six seniors conducting this year, so they will be conducting on those days (we will treat them as if I have a faculty meeting - like we have done in the past). The other Thursdays that I am here, I will either conduct or critic the seniors who are conducting.

Seniors who are conducting - please stop by my office ASAP and pick out the music that you want to conduct. If it is something that I have to order, stop by even sooner!

Freshmen - make sure to introduce yourself to anyone hold a tuba (or sousaphone) or euphonium (and everyone else, introduce yourself to them). If you need anything from me, please call me, in the evenings, at home (989.828.6481). Don't forget your:
- tuner
-music
-metronome
-Instrument
-valve oil
- slide grease
- and an MP3 player, if you have one (you will want to load it up with tuba and euphonium music).

Studio party - we will have the yearly studio party sometime in the first week or two of school. As usual, we will have to work around the marching band schedule (the first game is 9/2/10). Food, games, and maybe a movie at my house.

Concert Band Audition - please remember to prepare something for Professor Williamson for you concert band seating auditions. The auditions usually take place in the first week of classes. He likes something that compares and contrasts (slow and melodic combined with technique. It can be be two or more different works, etudes, etc. performed for him).

OK, I think that is it for now. Buckle up. The crazy ride begins soooon.

See you all shortly.

Dr. Cox

Update from the summer

2010-06-14T13:15:00.002-04:00

Hello all. I hope you are having a great summer! I thought I would give you an update on some unfortunate news we just received this morning and did not want you hearing it through the grapevine. My daughter, Sarah, was just diagnosed with Leukemia. It is in the early stages and the most common type of Leukemia. We will be "working" with this for the next 2 1/2 years for recovery. The prognosis is that she be get back to normal self, but will take some time. So, I just wanted you to know so that if you heard rumors, you would know what is happening.

Thanks and I will see you soon.

Dr. Cox

Soon to Arizona

2010-05-23T22:16:00.003-04:00

Hello all.
I hope you are having a great start to your summer. Things have been incredibly busy here, with very little down time (solo performances, recording sessions, etc.). MJ and I will be leaving for Tucson on Tuesday. Our flight is at 7:30 am, so we will need to leave our house sometime between 3:00-3:30 am - UGH! Zach and Chelsea called me tonight, they are in New Mexico (staying the night). Their GPS said they have 150 miles to go tomorrow and they will be there.
The weather is going to be hot. So dress appropriately. Dr Swoboda is already out there and the temperature has been over 100 degrees. Speaking of her, she has already called me twice to ask me to bring stuff (mostly electronic items) that she forgot (and I own). So, if a consummate professional like her can forget stuff, PLEASE double-check to see that you have everything for the trip:
1. Music
2. Instrument (in PERFECT working order)
3. Mouthpiece (I would hate for you to have to buy a new one)
4. Everything else (see Jessica's emails)

So, as you can see, MIME, think this as you pack.

I am really looking forward to our concert on Saturday! See you out in the sunshine, cactus and red dirt!

Dr. Cox

Final rehearsal

2010-04-15T07:56:00.002-04:00

Would everyone please bring their finals schedule to rehearsal today. We need to find one last ensemble rehearsal time during finals week. If we can, then we will not need to rehearse until we are out in Arizona for the conference.
Thanks,

Dr. Cox

Jury sigh-up sheets on out

2010-04-13T14:37:00.002-04:00

For those who are performing a Freshmen or Sophomore jury (200 or 300), the sign-up sheets are on Dr. Lindahl's door. First come, first served. I hope to see all of your names on sheet by the end of the week.

Thanks,

Dr. Cox

Spring Studio Recital

2010-03-25T13:36:00.002-04:00

Spring studio recital - this Sunday, 28 March 2010 at 4:00 pm at the 1st Presbyterian Church. The address for the church is 1250 Watson. This is about 6 blocks from the music building. If you do not know where it is, please ask or get a ride from someone who does know. This is a REQUIRED concert. I will be at the church around 3:00 (3:00 or a little later) if you want to come and play a few notes.

See you there -
Dr. Cox

Phil Smith Recital

2010-03-25T13:35:00.001-04:00

Just a reminder, though not a required concert, it is HIGHLY advised that you attend the Phil Smith concert in Staples at 8:00 pm. It should be an amazing concert.

Thank you,

Dr. Cox

Zach Vandergraaff's Recital

2010-03-18T15:31:00.004-04:00

Studio,
Please do NOT forget that Zach's recital is tomorrow night (Friday, 19 March 2010) at 7:00 pm here in Chamichian Hall. This is a mandatory recital.

Dr. Cox

Studio Class for 3/16

2010-03-16T07:52:00.001-04:00

Studio class for Tuesday, 16 March, will be in room 119. We will be rehearsing ensemble music, so please bring instrument and stand (and ear plugs).

Dr. Cox

Not at the office this morning

2010-02-22T08:40:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone. Hope you had a good weekend - soon spring break will be here. I will not be in today due to an emergency root canal that I am going to have this morning (no kidding). I am hoping that it will be done in time (and I feel good enough) to go over to the high school to WMU's brass quintet at 1:40. If you need anything, please shoot me an email. I will have my iPhone at the dentist office and will probably be sitting around a lot.
Thanks,

Dr. Cox

Studio class - 2.16.10

2010-02-15T21:38:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone.
Studio class for tomorrow, 16 February 2010, bring MUSIC and PENCIL ONLY! We are in room 230. Do not bring any instruments. We are going to be listening to last semester's concert.

See you then,

Dr. Cox

Spring 2010 Lessons

2009-11-19T09:17:00.002-05:00

FYI - for those of you that didn't remember, the Spring 2010 lesson schedule sign up sheet is posted. These people have not signed up for a lesson yet:

Daniel Wilhelm
William Thompson
Corey Jahlas
Chris Fenner
Mark Richards

Please sign up soon. Times are going fast.

Dr. Cox

Nov 16, 2009 Events

2009-11-16T10:10:00.002-05:00

OK, you asked for it. Here is the list of performance and rehearsals for the week of Nov. 16th:

Nov. 16th (Mon) - Central Foundation Dress Rehearsal for the Tuba/Euphonium Ensemble Concert:
- 6-8 pm, Staples

Nov. 17th (Tues) - Tuba and Euphonium Ensemble Concert
- Call is 6:45 pm. Concert dress - all black
- 8:00 pm concert

Nov. 18th (Wed) - Harvest Dinner - CF is performing
- Meal starts at 6:00 pm
- CF starts playing at 5:30ish

Nov. 19th (Thurs) - 2nd Brass Area Recital
- 11:00 am - Nathan James performing Drie Bagatelles by Hummel

Nov. 20th (Fri) - Instrumental Workshop
- 10:30- 11:45 am Breathing/MP discussion (not required if you have a class or work, otherwise, please be there - dressed professionally.
- 1:00-2:15 pm - Large ensemble (CF performs a work or two).(not required if you have a class or work, otherwise, please be there - dressed professionally.

Past the week of Nov. 16th

Nov. 24th - LAST STUDIO CLASS FOR THE SEMESTER - PARTY! Bring food if you want. I will supply drinks, chips, napkins, utencils, etc.

Dec. 1st - Honors Recital
- 11:00 am - Staples

Dec. 3rd - Honors Recital
- 11:00 am Staples

Dec. 4th - Dickens Downtown Festival - Christmas Quartet
- 5:00-7:00 pm - Art Reach Gallery (Broadway - near Max and Emily's)

Dec. 5th - Dickens Downtown Festival - Central Foundation
- 5:00-7:00 pm - Art Reach Gallery (Broadway - near Max and Emily's)

Dec. 6th - FINALS WEEK!

Trombone Ensemble Concert

2009-10-27T14:58:00.002-04:00

Studio,
There has been some confusion as to the when the trombone concert is taking place. It is Thursday (29 October), not tonight. The concert is required. Just thought I would help clear up the confusion.

Dr. Cox

Studio Recital No. 2

2009-10-25T11:49:00.002-04:00

Studio,
Don't forget, Studio Recital No. 2 is tonight (Sunday - 25 October, 2009) at 5:00 pm in Chamichian. This is a REQUIRED recital. Also, great job to all who performed at the Friday night's recital (Recital No. 1). Wonderful performances! Very musical, solid and entertaining (in a GOOD way). See you all in a few hours.

Dr. Cox

Dr. Lindahl's Recital

2009-10-15T14:30:00.001-04:00

Studio,
As a reminder, Dr. Lindahl's recital is tonight at 8:00 pm in Staples. This is a REQUIRED concert. Also, Jessica Parij's recital is tomorrow (10/16/09) at 7:00 pm in Chamichian. This is also REQUIRED.

Thank you,
Dr. Cox

Sunday All-Gillingham Concert

2009-10-09T19:15:00.002-04:00

Hello all.
This Sunday at 4:00 pm is an "All-Gillingham" concert as part of TubaBach in Big Rapids, Michigan. Some of the works being performed are:

Vintage
Blue Lake Fantasies
Diversive Elements for Tuba, Euphonium and Piano
Divertimento for Tuba, Horn and Piano
2008 (New euphonium concerto)
FF Fanfare
and several other works.

Performers:
featuring - Dr. Ed Mallett - tuba and euphonium
Dr. Mark Cox - tuba
Dr. Bruce Bonnell - horn
Dr. Mary Jo Cox - piano
An Allstar band for the new concerto

The concert will be held at the Big Rapids High School Auditorium (use MapQuest or a GPS to find it).

This is NOT a required concert, but it would be GREAT to have some of you there. Big Rapids is 1 hour due west. Follow M20 (High Street) to Big Rapids. Hope to see some of you there -

Dr. Cox

Studio Class for 10/8

2009-10-07T10:49:00.001-04:00

(a picture of me after yesterday was finished)

Studio Class - 8 October 2009

Room - 156

Holst - mvts 2, 3 and 4

Robertson - P. D.

2009-10-05T20:52:00.000-04:00

Tuba/Euph Ensemble Rehearsal

2009-10-05T20:41:00.002-04:00

6 October 2009 rehearsal -

- Room 218

- New work - Francis
- Amporita Roca
- Holst - mvts 2, 3 and 4

Attached is a photo that might help for future rehearsals.

Studio Class - Mouthpieces only

2009-09-15T07:53:00.001-04:00

Studio class - Room 230 - mouthpieces and breathing exercises only.

Tuba/Euph Ensemble Rehearsal

2009-09-09T10:51:00.002-04:00

Thursday's rehearsal (10 September 2009) for Night on Bald Mountain and Suite in F is in room 156 at 11:00 am. Please be ready to PLAY at 11:00.

Thanks,

Dr. Cox

Central Foundation audition results

2009-08-28T21:12:00.002-04:00

Congrats to the two newest members of CF:
Jessica Parij on euphonium
and
Dan Wilhelm on tuba

Also, thanks to all who auditioned, it was a tough decision tonight.

Dr Cox, Zach VanderGraaff and Dan Turchyn

ITEC 2010 & CF Audition

2009-08-25T16:31:00.003-04:00

OK, everyone. I sent Kelly Thomas, host of ITEC 2010, that we want to perform at the conference. He just sent me an email that we have a spot being held for us. So, we are on! I have my first grant due (Student Performing Fund) this Friday by 5:00 pm!!! OUCH, but hey, that's the way it goes. Buckle up.

Also, CF auditions WILL be this Friday at 7:00 pm. Room - TBA. Please send me an email by Thursday if you are interested in auditioning.

Thanks,

Dr. Cox

Concert Band Auditions

2009-08-21T11:29:00.002-04:00

Studio,
Please remember to sign up for concert band auditions. The sign up sheets are across from the faculty mailboxes. Mr. Williamson likes to contrasting styles, either from the same work, multiple movements, or two separate works. Sign up ASAP, for the good times are going fast.

Web Page Updates

2009-08-19T16:20:00.002-04:00

I made a bunch of web page updates (no, I did not get to the student or CF pages) today. The important one is the Concert Schedule page for Fall 2009. On it you will find all the concerts that you are required to attend this semester. Please refer to it often. And yes, there will be updates. As these come along, I will notify you about them. Notice that the Studio Recitals are a LOT EARLIER this year (October), so we need to get music decisions made in the next couple of weeks. Here is the link to the concert page:

http://mctuba.com/studio/main/concert.php

Thanks,

Dr. Cox

2009-2010 Year About to Begin!

2009-08-18T12:28:00.003-04:00

Hello all.

I hope you had a productive and restful summer. I just got back from the Falcone Festival this morning and trying to get ahead of the game. It was a fun-filled, productive summer for me. My family and I took a 3 week vacation through northeast Canada, Maine, New Hampshire and New York in june putting 4,000 plus miles on the car (and a got a few good photos). I then taught for 2 weeks at Interlochen's Allstate Program. Upon returning from their I taught a 5-hour-a-day graduate brass tech course for 9 days, and then went to adjudicate, perform and help run the 24th annual Leonard Falcone International Euphonium and Tuba Festival. Whew! Now for the "new year."
Here are some details for you to know:
1. Lesson sign up sheet is on my board - please use PENCIL to sign up!!!
1a. Lessons - double check the message board in front of my office if you are not sure what lesson number (177 or 178) or how much time (1/2 hour vs. 1 hour) you are supposed to be sign up for.
2. I have received a few key requests from the tuba players. You will need to go to Scott Burgess to get the request started. Euphonium players, you do NOT need to do the key request, just get a large locker.
3. STUDIO PARTY - Thursday, 27 August at my house. We will start around 5:00 pm. If you have marching band, just come out when it is done. Don't look for the barn when you get out there, it is GONE. Only dirt and grass where it used to be. Also, no alcohol (!) - just a reminder.
4. Band audition. You need to sign up for band auditions on the bulletin board across from the faculty mailboxes. Please do it soon. And pick music you can play well. Usually 2 contrasting works, or a work with 2 contrasting sections.
5. CF Auditions,
- Auditions will be on 28 August (Friday) with a couple of audition times (more on the way about that).
- Music for the audition will be Wabash Cannonball, Salvation is Created, and Power (of course).
- New twist: you will have to give a 3-5 minute presentation on the history of their instrument. Gear the discussion to 8th
graders.
- Auditions are open to ALL studio members SOPHOMORE and above.
- There are two spots available - 1 euphonium and 1 tuba
- For the audition, I will be playing the opposite part (if you audition on tuba, I will be playing euphonium)
- If I deem that there is no one capable of playing one of the parts, then I will take it over for the semester.
6. Studio Class - we will meet (without the freshmen) on 25 August in room 218. NO INSTRUMENTS.
7. Freshmen - you have a meeting on 25th August at 11:00 am and will not be at the first studio class.

I think that is it for now. I will be in and out of the office for the rest of the week. If you need something, please stop and knock. See all of you soon,

Dr. Cox

PS - If you are looking for my car, the Audi is no longer with us. Thank you "Cash for Clunkers." I now own, and sometimes drive, a new 2010, black Honda Insight (hybred). From smog to smug in one signature.

Yamaha 842S Euphonium for sale

2009-06-09T07:50:00.003-04:00

Hello all from Sudbury, Ontario. First day of vacation is finished - rain the entire day! Today we will be camping in Algonquin Provincial Park. The reason for this announcement is an email I got this morning from Dr. Kroesche about a euphonium for sale. Here is the email:

"Hello Mark,

I hope you are well. I know that you are a Yamaha Performing Artist and thought you might want to know about a great deal on Yamaha euphonium for your students. Below is the information on a horn that one of my students is trying to sell. I think this would be a great buy for a student or anyone for that matter. I can attest to the fact that she has kept this horn in great shape.

All the best,

Ken

Kenneth Kroesche, D.M.A.
Professor of Trombone, Euphonium & Tuba

Oakland University
Department of Music, Theatre & Dance
329 Varner Hall
Rochester, MI 48309

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Domonique Barnes
Date: Mon, Jun 8, 2009 at 9:07 PM
Subject: Euphonium For Sale
To: Kenneth Kroesche

I am selling my Yamaha Professional YEP-842S Euphonium. I bought this instrument new in December 2008 and it has great instrument for me. The only reason I am selling it is because I found a great deal on an instrument I like a little better. Since I have owned the horn for a little over a year-it is in pristine condition. There are are two very tiny dings on the bell of the horn which I showed in the picture (caused by a quick mute change). If you would like to see additional pictures just ask.

The sound that you get from this horn is HUGE-it was really taken my playing to the next level. Dillon Music and the Woodwind & Brasswind currently list this instrument for $5,984.00 new.

I am asking for $4,900 but may be willing to negotiate.

Please contact Niki
dabarnes@oakland.edu "

Contact the above person directly if any of you are interested. Have a great (and dry) day -

Dr. Cox

Summer update

2009-06-04T09:57:00.007-04:00

Hello all.

Hope your summer is going well. How are chops? Do your valves move?

My summer has been crazy (I know, nothing new). It was supposed to be a quite few weeks from the end of school to mid-June. WRONG. The next studio party we will have, you will not recognize the place. The barn is gone! Shepherd Fire Department came out and did a practice burn on it (see attached photo). The flames were about 4 stories tall and could be seen for miles around. The next day, nothing left. We are trying to find a contractor to bury what little foundation is left. We are going to take that section and just put grass there with a big fire pit. Should be fun in the fall.
We are also finding a contractor to redo the roof on the house. With the interest rates so low, we refinanced the house and have some "extra" money to put a Hunter Green steel roof on it (and maybe garage). We have had everyone contractor out from major companies to the Amish. And if there is money left over, we are going to put out a LARGE play center for the kids (the old one is gone). We currently have a 10 yard dumpster in front of the garage to get rid of all the junk that was in the barn. Eric D. came out and helped me to organize after the fire. We have a 20x10x10 foot wall of scrap metal (next to the propane tank) that is going away as well.

So as you can see, it has been pretty wild around here. And, as of June 8th, I will be away from the place until about July 1st. The family and I are taking a 3 week vacation to: Algonquin Provincial Park; Ottawa, Quebec City, Boothbay Harbor (Maine) and eventually end up at the inlaws in NH. Once back in town, I leave again for Interlochen on July 5th. So a very limited time to catch me in town. If you need me, please send me an email. With the iPhone, I have been a lot better at keeping up on the emails.

That is it for now. Be safe and I will see you soon.

Dr. Cox

Central Foundation Audition Results

2009-05-05T15:32:00.002-04:00

After some discussion and a unanimous agreement, there has only been one vacant seat awarded. That seat is euphonium to:
Dan Turchyn

The other two seats were not filled and auditions will be in the fall during the first week or two of class. Since these seats are still vacant, we have (as a group) decided to open the auditions to anyone who is a permanent studio member. After the second round of auditions, if a seat is still vacant, I will assume the roll as 4th performer (either euphonium or tuba). The positions available are:

Tuba - High Part
Euphonium - combination part

Congratulations to Dan Turchyn. He will be on probation (as does everybody) through the first semester. CF and I have also agreed to assign Zach VanderGraaff as a permanent member of the group. If you have any questions, please feel free to call me (at home) or email me.

Thank you,

Dr. Cox

CF Auditions

2009-05-04T10:16:00.002-04:00

CF auditions will be held in room 155 starting at 5:00 pm.

Best of luck to those auditioning,

Dr. Cox

Recital updates

2009-04-24T12:54:00.002-04:00

AN update on recitals for the next week (April 25-29):

Saturday, 25 April 2009:

Ben Dotson's recital (cancelled/postponed - time and date - TBA)
3:00 Brass Band - Eric Dluzniewski and Seth Tompkins - soloists - REQUIRED
6:00 Chris Fenner - Presbyterian Church - REQUIRED

Sunday, 26 April 2009:

3:00 E2T2 recital - Prebyterian Church - REQUIRED
5:00 Seth Tompkin's senior recital, Chamichian - REQUIRED

Wednesday, 29 Apil 2009:

7:00 Jim Kowalski, Bullock Creek High School - ATTENDANCE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
8:00 CMU Student Composition Recital - Euphonium solo composed by Corey Jahlas, played by Eric Dluzniewski
(this piece is 2nd to last on the recital. We should be able to hear Jim's recital - about 20 minutes away, and
then make it back for Corey's work) - ATTENDANCE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

SCALES DAY!!!

2009-04-21T08:05:00.002-04:00

Scale day - TODAY - room 230.

No absences, no excuses, no wrong notes.

See you then,

Dr. Cox

Self-prepared work for juries is available

2009-04-16T17:01:00.002-04:00

200 and 300 level self-prepared work is now hanging on my bulletin board. Please stop by and take one.

Jury Sheets Are Now Up

2009-04-15T14:05:00.002-04:00

Freshmen and Sophomores,
The jury sign-up sheets are now on Dr. Lindahl's door:

Mon (5/4/09) -Tue (5/5/09)
Room 155
10-12 and 1-3

Please sign up SOOOOON! The times go fast. Make sure to check your final's schedule so you don't sign up for a time that is already committed to another class.

Dr. Cox

Recitals for the remainder of the semester

2009-04-08T09:15:00.002-04:00

Here are the studio member's recitals for the remainder of the semester:

April 14th
- 11:00 am - Katheren Rollins - Brass Area (Staples)
April 19th
- 3:00 pm - Ashley Biermann (Chamichian)

April 25th
- 12:00 pm - Ben Dotson (Presbyterian Church - 1250 Watson Dr, Mt. Pleasant)
- 6:00 pm - Chris Fenner (Presbyterian Church)

April 26th
- 3:00 pm - E2T2 (Presbyterian Church - 1250 Watson Dr, Mt. Pleasant)
- 5:00 pm - Seth Tompkins (Chamichian)

April 29th
- 7:00 pm - Jim Kowalski (Bullock Creek High School - 1420 S. Badour Rd, Midland)

Reminder - No lessons today

2009-04-06T08:10:00.002-04:00

No lessons for Monday, 6 April 2009. Those who have lessons will be taught on Friday, 10 April.

AND, since I am not teaching today, it would be a GOOD time for people to stop by just about any time today and browse for summer music options. The only thing I ask is not to hang around and chat. I really need to be focused on the Falcone stuff.

Thanks,
Dr. Cox

Studio Recital TODAY

2009-04-05T10:52:00.002-04:00

Studio,
Several things to announce -

1) Studio recital today - Chamichian- 7:00 pm - MANDATORY.
2) Trombone Ensemble Concert - Today - 3:00 pm (please help support the trombone studio).
3) Monday Lessons - due to the amount of Falcone CDs I have to work with over the next few days, I will need to move ALL Monday lessons to Friday, 10th April - same time as the Monday lessons.
4) Jury Scale Requirements are now on the studio web page. Here is the link:
http://mctuba.com/studio/jury/juryinfo.php

See you tonight,

Dr. Cox

Studio Class - 3.31.09

2009-03-30T14:22:00.003-04:00

Studio for 31 March 2009 is in room 231. The performers will be:
Dan Turchyn
Ben Dotsen

Tuba players - FYI - The BIG Denis Wick tuba mute has arrived!!! I will etch "CMU" on it and get it down to the tuba room tomorrow (Tuesday). Also, the Balu mute came in. This mute will stay in my office. If you would like to try it, come by and sign it out for the day. But for now, I want it returned before I leave for the day. It is a very fragile mute (compared to the metal ones).

Also - THANKS FOR THE ALL THE HELP YESTERDAY!!! It is so nice to finally have the barn walls off my neighbor's property. And, it was fun working with all of you. Danielle - did you take the field mouse home with you for a pet???

Dr. Cox

Barn Razing II

2009-03-29T08:45:00.002-04:00

Though it has turned cold and wet, it still looks like we can take care of the barn today - 3:00. IF it takes a major turn for the worse, I will post an email by 2:00 pm. If it looks like it is still "doable," then NO email.

Thanks everyone and dress warm.

ALSO - come hungry, we will have food (still trying to decide between pizza or lasagna).

Dr. Cox

Barn Razing

2009-03-25T08:40:00.003-04:00

Studio -
Those that would like to help (and get paid) move the sections of the barn back onto my property, here is the info:

3:00 pm
Sunday, 29 March 2009
About an hour
8-10 people
$20 per person

Please let me know if you are interested. We will do it rain or shine (unless really cold, snow or lightning). If I need to cancel it, I will send out an email through the blog. Dress appropriately. You might want to wear boots if you have them. I have work gloves.

Thanks in advance,

Dr. Cox

Central Foundation and E2T2 Recital - Tonight

2009-03-22T09:12:00.001-04:00

Studio,
Just a reminder that the Central Foundation and E2T2 concert is tonight (Sunday, 22 March 2009) in Staples Family Recital Hall at 8:00 pm. Attendance is MANDATORY. See you there,

Dr. Cox

Studio Class - 17 March 2009

2009-03-16T22:59:00.002-04:00

Studio class will be in the conference room, yes, the conference room for Tuesday. No instrument or mouthpiece. Two lectures, one from me on recital hearings at CMU and one from Eric and Seth - auditioning for graduate schools. The conference room is next to the mailboxes and elevator. Please enter from the hallway, not the main office.

Thanks,

Dr. Cox

Studio Class 3.3.09

2009-03-02T12:44:00.001-05:00

Studio,
Please bring your instruments to studio tomorrow (Tuesday). We will be in room 230.

Thanks,

Dr. Cox

Jessica Parij's Recital

2009-02-27T13:51:00.003-05:00

Don't forget that Jessica's recital is this weekend.

Date: 28 February 2009
Time: 1:oo pm
Location: Chamichian

REQUIRED!

See you there.

Roger Bobo Solo Mouthpiece

2009-02-25T12:51:00.003-05:00

Studio,
Since the studio's Roger Bobo Solo tuba mouthpiece went missing a while ago (somebody borrowed it, never signed it out, and subsequently never returned it), I took some of the studio budget and purchased a new one. It is now available for your use.

Dr. Cox

Studio 19 February 2009

2009-02-18T14:12:00.002-05:00

Studio is in room 230 on 19 February 2009. We will be watching "The Breathing Gym."

Thank you,

Dr. Cox

Lessons for Monday, 16 February

2009-02-15T23:23:00.002-05:00

Due to the lovely bug that has been going around, Dr. Cox will not be in tomorrow. Lessons will hopefully be made up on Friday, 20 February. Sorry, and for those that are also sick, please get to a doctor. It doesn't seem to want to leave on its own accord.

Studio for 12 February 2009

2009-02-12T09:08:00.001-05:00

Studio class will be in Room 230 for 12 February 2009.

Dr. Cox

Studio Class Change

2009-02-09T12:51:00.001-05:00

Studio Class for 10 February has been changed. We will be in Room 231 - WITHOUT - instruments. Those that were to play tomorrow will now play on Thursday. We will be watching Dr. White (Kennen) do a SmartMusic demonstration that I found to be fascinating. Again, no instruments - but paper and pencil for notes would be appropriate.

Dr. Cox

Studio Recital

2009-02-02T10:51:00.001-05:00

Studio Recital date for Spring 2009 is now set:

Sunday, April 5th at 7:00 pm in Chamichian.

Mark it in your calendars.

Thanks,

Dr. Cox

Studio Class - 27 January 2009

2009-01-27T10:28:00.003-05:00

Announcements are up and running again.

Studio class is in Room 156 on Tuesday, 27 Jan. 2009.

Performers are:
Chelsea Gelisse
Jim Kowalski
Corey Jahlas

Thanks,

Dr. Cox

Spring 2009 Lesson Schedule

2008-12-04T09:04:00.001-05:00

Spring 2009 Lesson Schedule is now posted. Please sign up for the appropriate lesson length. Any questions, you know where to find me.

Studio Class (and party)

2008-11-25T07:03:00.003-05:00

Todays studio class will be held in room 230. we have changed rooms with the flute. If you want to bring something to eat, please feel free. I will supply pizzas, drink, and chips. See you there.

Dr. Cox

Brass Tech

2008-11-25T07:02:00.001-05:00

Brass tech for Tuesday, 25 November 2008 is on! We WILL be discussing mutes in todays class.
Thanks,
Dr. Cox

Tuba and Euphonium Ensemble Reh

2008-11-13T08:12:00.001-05:00

Rehearsal for 13 November 2008:

11:00 Emeigh/Tull
11:30: Tompkins/Nehylbel

Don't forget - DRESS REHEARSAL: Sunday, 16 November - 7:00 - DOWNBEAT

Concert dress is all black

Lindahl Recital

2008-11-10T12:19:00.001-05:00

As a reminder, Dr. Lindahl's recital has been cancelled for 12 November 2008. You have the night 'free.'

Tuba and Euphonium Ensemble Rehearsal

2008-11-10T12:18:00.001-05:00

11 November 2008:

11:00 Dotson/Shosta.
11:15: Biermann/Brahms
11:35: Dluz/Weelkes

Tuba and Euphonium Ensemble Rehearsal

2008-11-06T10:03:00.001-05:00

Tuba and Euphonium Ensemble Rehearsal for 6 November 2008 (Thursday):

CANCELLED

Please use this time to practice your parts (and not go early to La's).

Thanks,

Dr. Cox

Tuba and Euphonium Ensemble

2008-10-30T09:17:00.002-04:00

Rehearsal for 30 October 2008:

11:00 - Tubular Octad (Emeigh - conductor)
11:35 - Galop (Dotson - conductor)

Thanks,
Dr. Cox

Oct. 21 Tuba/Euph Ensemble

2008-10-21T07:59:00.003-04:00

No rehearsal today. Instead, go to Chamichian (without instruments) to the trombone masterclass (Ken Thompkins - trombone).

Thanks,

Dr. Cox

PS -

Thursday Rehearsal:
Brahms (Biermann)
When David... (Dluzniewski)
and ???

T/E Ensemble Rehearsal

2008-10-14T08:08:00.001-04:00

Tuesday, 14 October 2008

11:00 - Berlioz
11:30 - Nobody Does it Better

Tuba/Euphonium Ensemble Rehearsal

2008-10-09T08:42:00.001-04:00

October 9, 2008 - Rehearsal Schedule:

11:00 - Dluzniewksi - When David...
11:25 - Emeigh - Tubular...

Room 155

Tuba and Euphonium Ensemble Reh. 10.07.08

2008-10-07T08:25:00.001-04:00

Rehearsal Schedule for 7 October 2008 at 11:00 am:

11:00 - A Little Monster Music - Raum
11:30 - Galop (Dotson)

Room 218