OU student takes third place at international music festival

By Samantha Skovran, media relations assistant Oakland University student James Long placed third in the Euphonium Student Division of the 27th Annual Leonard Falcone International Euphonium and Tuba Festival this past weekend.

This festival, held at the Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Twin Lakes Michigan, is considered to be one of the most important and established events of this type. It is divided into an Artist and Student division where individuals compete on their instrument of choice, euphonium or tuba.

Cash prizes are awarded to the artists and students who achieve the top three places in either the euphonium and tuba categories. In the past 25 years of competition, about $200,000 in prizes have been awarded.

In the weekend’s events, Long showed his skills and passion for the euphonium by outplaying students from all over the country.

“James is a tremendously talented performer,” said Greg Cunningham, director of bands. “He has impressive potential, which we saw at his audition to play at OU.”

Just entering his sophomore year, Long has participated in the OU brass band, tuba and euphonium ensemble, as well as playing trombone in the wind symphony.

“It is easy to coast for someone with his talent, yet he applies himself and is moving towards his goals,” said Cunningham. “I respect young people like him who show respect and encouragement for his peers, it provides a positive environment for everyone.”

For more information about the Leonard Falcone International Euphonium and Tuba Festival visit falconefestival.org.

Visit oakland.edu/mtd to learn more about Oakland’s Music, Theater, and Dance Department.