- George Protopapas -
Trumpet / Director
George Protopapas has pursued the Trumpet since sixth grade when he was inspired by his idol, Wynton Marsalis' performance of Handel's, Let The Bright Seriphim. He is a senior at Hammonton High School, where he has preformed as principal trumpet for the Marching Band, Concert Band, Lead Trumpet in Jazz Band, Wind Ensemble, and as well as chamber ensembles. In addition to his principal status, he was an former principal trumpet in the Rowan University Youth Orcheastra, Garden State Pops Youth Orchestra, and the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra's PYAO. In addition, George has performed in little over six distinguished concert halls.
Since his years in elementary school he has participated in the South Jersey Region Ensemble's, and New Jersey All State Band and Orchestra, where he performed vigorous pieces such as the Fire Bird Suite by, Stravinsky. As for ensembles, George has participated in the College of New Jersey Honor Ensemble, Olympic Conference Honor Ensemble to name a few. George has performed well known works such as Beethoven's Leonore Overture, Handel's Messiah, Purcell's Gloria, and more. In 2008, George had the honor of performing as a soloist for the Philadelphia Young Artists Orchestras Christmas Benefit Concert in the performance of the Vivaldi Concerto for two trumpets. Prior to his season with the PYAO, George recorded a CD entitled "Now and Forever".
George currently studies with the renownd, George Rabbai, who is a well know artist and teacher for the Rowan University and University for the Arts.
Mr. Rabbai performs with many highly regarded musicians such as Michael Finestine and Wynton Marsalis to name a few. As for teachers, George has studied with Robert Russel, Dr. Stanley Kruchinsky, Christopher Norris, Jim Norton, and Dr. Appleby-Wineburg. In addition to studying with these great musicians, George has had the opportunity to take lessons with Wyonton Marsalis and play for David Bilger. George aspires to one day be a Concert Soloist with a Doctoral degree in Trumpet Performance.
