The Houston Symphony low brass section has a long-standing tradition of excellence. Pricnipal trombonist Allen Barnhill has been a member of the Houston Symphony for over two decades, serving as Co-Principal Trombone from 1977-1982, and Principal Trombone from 1982 to the present. A prize winner at the 1979 Geneva International Solo Competition, he has made many solo appearances, including performances with the Houston Symphony. He also performs with the Houston Symphony Chamber Players and Chicago’s Music of the Baroque ensemble. Mr. Barnhill has served on the faculties of the University of Texas, University of Houston, and the Shepherd School of Music, and has given master classes throughout the United States and abroad He is a graduate of the Eastman School of Music.
Bradley White is the newest member of the Houston Symphony’s brass section, following his recent appointment by Maestro Hans Graf to the position of Associate Principal and Second Trombone. Mr. White received his Bachelor of Music degree from the Shepherd School of Music in 1993, and a Master’s from the Manhattan School of Music in 1997. His principal instructors include David Waters and Per Brevig. Prior to his position with the Houston Symphony, Mr. White was an active freelance performer with many ensembles including the Ambient Brass, the Houston Ballet and Grand Opera Orchestras, the San Antonio Symphony, and the Hawaii Symphony.
David Waters, a native Houstonian, is associate professor of Trombone at the Shepherd School of Music. He received a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Houston and a Master of Music degree from the University of Texas. His instructors have included artist teachers of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, and the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra. Mr. Waters has played professionally with a number of show orchestras, stage bands, and jazz ensembles in addition to playing with the Austin Symphony, the National Orchestra Association in New York City, and the North Jersey Wind Symphony. Since 1966, he has been Bass Trombonist with the Houston Symphony.
David Kirk is his 20th season as principal tubist of the Houston Symphony. He was selected for the position during his final year of undergraduate studies at the Juilliard School. Outside his duties with the orchestra, he is an active performer, giving solo recitals and performing with chamber music groups. Mr. Kirk is an Associate Professor at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music. He has given master classes at the Cleveland Institute of Music, the Cincinnati Conservatory, the New England Conservatory, New World Symphony, and in Japan. Dave Kirk serves on the faculty of two summer music programs, Texas Music Festival and the American Festival for the Arts.
