Principal Trombonist with the Houston Symphony, Allen Barnhill joined the orchestra in 1977 and has appeared as a soloist on numerous occasions. Winner of the Swiss Prize in the 1979 Geneva International Solo Competition, he was also featured in the 2008 world premiere of Cindy McTee’s Solstice for Trombone and Orchestra. As an ensemble collaborator, he has appeared in concert and on recordings with the Houston and San Antonio Symphonies, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Chicago’s Music of the Baroque and the Houston Symphony Chamber Players.
Currently Associate Professor of Trombone at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music, he has also held faculty positions at The University of Texas, the University of Houston, Sam Houston State University and the University of St. Thomas. A native of Elizabethtown, NC, Allen graduated from the Eastman School of Music where he studied with Donald Knaub. He enjoys water skiing, snow skiing and golf.
Is there a concert you’re particularly excited about this season?
Since I’m a big fan of choral music, I look forward to the Brahms Requiem this spring. This is one of the more beautiful and inspired choral works in which the composer makes expert use of the trombones and tuba. I also like the biblical texts he chose, different from the traditional Latin Requiem Mass, hence the title, A German Requiem.
What inspired you to become a musician?
I was born into a family of music lovers, although none of them were professional musicians. My musical career has been a journey down the avenues of opportunity that were opened to me by several mentor teachers. Therefore, I hope to give something back as a teacher of music performance.
Is there a notable aspect of your career?
The most satisfying moments in my musical career include any time the low brass section gets to shine. Making a beautiful sound together is what we do. We live for that. At other times, when the composer allows, we get to relax a bit and just listen to the beautiful sound of the orchestra around us.
What does music mean to you?
Belonging to a large musical ensemble means working intensively with my colleagues. Whether we are on stage immersed in the music of a great composer or just hanging out together backstage, these are treasured relationships.
