ELLISVILLE – Connections and music seemingly go hand in hand in the world of fine arts according to Jones College Director of Bands, Dr. Ben Burge. After a recital with the Topaz Trio, Burge’s freshman student, Jessica Manning of Quitman had the opportunity to receive a “masterclass” from a member of the trio and his former Mississippi State University saxophone professor, Dr. Gail Levinsky.
“I think it’s really interesting how connected we are in the music world. To have my former teacher teach my student is an example of that,” Burge explained. “It’s a really special thing and I’m very proud of my student, Jessica. She did a really good job!”
Levinsky focused on a couple of tips that could have a profound effect on Manning’s performance or different styles of playing. Admittedly, Manning said she learned a different style of performance and will have to relearn a few things.
“I really enjoyed how Dr. Levinsky broke it down in a different way I haven’t heard before,” said Manning. “A lot of the things that I’ve been doing for years, she changed which was a really new experience for me because I have been taking lessons in high school. I learned a new technique for everything today, which I have to relearn but I’m super excited about it.”
Levinsky currently serves on the faculty as Professor of Music at Susquehanna University in Pennsylvania. Her performance credits, commissions and premieres include presentations both nationally and internationally. She earned her Master, Artist Certificate and Doctorate degrees from Northwestern University and has published varied saxophone chapters about teaching saxophone and recently completed a solo CD featuring music of women composers.
“It’s always a pleasure to have groups like this showcase their gifts and the students learn a lot,” said Burge.
Additionally, Burge’s college piano accompanist, Dr. Jackie Edwards Henry also performed with the trio. She has been the accompanist for the Topaz Trio since 2019, and has performed with her duet partner, Dr. Levinsky since 1994, nationally and internationally.
The third member of the group, oboist, Dr. Duso-Kitts is currently a professor of double reeds at the University of Central Arkansas and Conway Symphony Orchestra. She has performed with the Orquesta Philharmonica de Santa Cruz in Bolivia, Orquesta Sinfonica de Estado de Mexico and Orquesta Sinfonia de Jalapa in Mexico. She received her Bachelor of Music from Indiana University, her Master of Music from Manhattan School of Music and her DMA from the University of Michigan.
