Ithaca College

Steven Mauk (Professor of Saxophone) was one of the professionals featured at the Biennial Conference of the North American Saxophone Alliance, held at the University of Iowa in Iowa City from February 15-18. He performed LIQUID GOLD for soprano saxophone and piano by Ithaca College composer Dana Wilson and was one of only five individuals chosen to present a master class.

The Cayuga Saxophone Quartet was one of the student chamber ensembles chosen to perform. This group is comprised of Joel Diegert (soprano), Heidi Bellinger (alto), Allison Dromgold (tenor) and Timothy Rosenberg (baritone). Also performing were alumni saxophonists Chris Anderson (MM ’04) and Ian Jeffress (MM ’04) both playing solos selections as well as a duo by composer Shawn Allison (MM ’03). Among the other professionals presenting were three alumni saxophonists, including Dr. Frank Bongiorno (UNC-Wilmington), Andrew Carpenter (University of Illinois-Chicago) and Angela Space (SUNY Oswego).

A solo classical competition was held as part of this conference, which attracted 50 top applicants from across the US. The first prize was awarded to Joel Diegert, who graduated with his BM this past December, and Chris Anderson (MM ’04). These individuals competed with doctoral students from some of the top schools of music in the US.