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Saxophonist Otis Murphy Performs April 16 at ASU

Otis Murphy

April 15, 2012. BOONE — Saxophonist Otis Murphy will present a guest recital featuring compositions by Jerome Kern on Monday, April 16, at Appalachian State University. The free recital begins at 8 p.m. in Broyhill Music Center’s Rosen Concert Hall. Murphy will be accompanied by pianist Maruko Murphy.

In addition to performing selections from “The Jerome Kern Songbook,” Murphy will perform Debussy’s “Rapsodie,” Antonino Pasculli’s “The Bees,” Alfred Desenclos’ “Prelude, cadence et finale,”  Astor Piazzolla’s “Oblivion” and “A Gershwin Fantasy.”

In addition to his performance, Murphy will conduct a master class with students from the Hayes School of Music at 3 p.m. in Room 322 Broyhill Music Center. While the master class is not closed to the public, seating will be quite limited.

Murphy is an internationally known saxophonist and teacher. He joined the faculty of the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music at the age of 28, becoming one of the youngest faculty members in its history.  He is in great demand as an international soloist and clinician, having gained wide recognition in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia, appearing with orchestras, bands and chamber groups, and at special events, such as festivals, symposiums, and World Saxophone congresses.

Murphy has received numerous awards including prizes in Belgium’s Adolphe Sax International Saxophone Competition, the Jean-Marie Londeix International Saxophone Competition in France and the Heida Hermanns International Woodwind Competition in the United States.  He has released 15 recordings including four solo compact discs. His latest solo release, “Summertime,” has received critical acclaim.  

He holds Doctor of Music and Master of Music degrees from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, graduating with the Performer’s Certificate, the highest honor given to a performer at the institution. He also has a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Georgia.  

Murphy is a Yamaha Performing Artist and a Vandoren Performing Artist. He is the soprano saxophonist in Solaire Quartet.