Dr. Aaron Witek, Assistant Professor of Trumpet and Coordinator of Brass and Percussion in the School of Music at Stetson, was invited to serve as Artist in Residence and Brass Clinician  for “Curso de Ensamble de Bandas e Instrumentos de Metal” in Querétaro, Mexico.  This brass workshop was sponsored by the Faculty of Arts of the Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, the Secretary of Extension of the University, the Secretary of Culture of the City of Querétaro, and Yamaha.  

Daily workshop sessions were held from May 29 – June 2, 2023 with a culminating concert on Friday afternoon featuring the Juan Manuel Arpero Brass Ensemble, a representative group of brass majors from the Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro (UAQ) taught by Mtra. Sandra Kessler, and participants from throughout Central Mexico.  In addition, Dr. Witek performed a trumpet solo with the Banda de Música del Estado de Querétaro (State Band), an ensemble of professional musicians who perform weekly concerts in and around Querétaro.  

35 musicians from throughout Central Mexico signed up for the workshop and 31 completed all course requirements, receiving a certificate for their work.  

During the week, Dr. Witek lectured on brass techniques, coached the Juan Manuel Arpero Brass Ensemble, led masterclasses featuring students from the UAQ, and rehearsed an ensemble of participants.  

The Friday afternoon concert included performances by the Juan Manuel Arpero Brass Ensemble and the ensemble of participants that performed two of Witek’s arrangements with Witek conducting.  

In addition, Dr. Witek was the featured soloist on the Friday evening concert with the Banda de Música del Estado de Querétaro (State Band).  He performed “Gran Fantasía Rusa” by Jules Levy, arranged by Paul DeVille, to a receptive and enthusiastic audience.  

Dr. Witek noted how much he appreciated the warm welcome that he received, especially from the brass players who invited him to join them at other performances that they were involved in during the week.