Senior Recital

Violin – Developed in 16th-century Italy, the violin spread across Europe and became the dominant bowed instrument in folk traditions worldwide. Played with a bow and capable of slides, drones, and ornamentation, it’s central to Irish and Scottish fiddle, Eastern European dance music, Scandinavian traditions, and American old-time and bluegrass. It often carries the lead melody and can shift between rhythmic bowing and lyrical phrasing depending on the tradition.

Mandolin – Originating in Italy, with paired strings and a bright, percussive tone. Played with a pick, it’s key in bluegrass, Celtic, and Mediterranean folk. Its tremolo technique sustains notes in otherwise fast-decaying phrases.

Trombone – A slide brass instrument from Renaissance Europe, allowing smooth pitch changes. Used in Balkan brass bands and New Orleans traditions. It often provides counter-melodies or harmonic support with expressive glissandi.

Cornet – Developed in 19th-century Europe from post horn designs, the cornet became widely used in brass bands and early popular music. With a more conical bore than the trumpet, it has a warmer, mellower tone that suits lyrical and expressive playing. It played a key role in early jazz (especially in New Orleans) and in klezmer, where its flexibility allows for bends, slides, and vocal-like phrasing. It often carries the melody, shaping phrases with ornamentation that reflects the expressive traditions of both styles.

Clarinet – Developed in Germany, with wide range and flexibility. Prominent in klezmer, Balkan, Turkish, and Middle Eastern folk. Its ability to bend pitch makes it highly expressive in modal music.

Double Bass – A large European instrument played with bow or plucked. Found in bluegrass, jazz, and European folk traditions. It provides both rhythmic pulse and harmonic grounding.

Tambourine – A global frame drum with jingles, used in European, Middle Eastern, and American folk. It can function as both rhythm and accent instrument.