Mystikal Offers Brass Master Class In Texas

Mystikal Youth Arts Organization is pleased to announce the first Master Class/Auditions in the state of Texas! On Saturday, January 24th Robert Flores, current Mystikal Brass Caption Head and Rio Grande Valley area Band Director, will host Alfredo Velez Jr. with a brass warm-up Master Class. The Master Class, as well as our afternoon Drum Corps Experience Clinic and Audition, will focus on breathing and warm-up techniques used in the outdoor ensemble setting as well as introducing brass ensemble repertoire. The entire experience will be held at thenPSJA Memorial High School (800 S. Alamo Rd. Alamo, Texas 78516) from 9am to 5pm and this is open to any brass student looking to improve their performance, gain valuable experience or explore the possibilities we have to offer for the summer Drum Corps tour. Cost is $40 per student and includes the Master Class, Rehearsal, and Lunch. Please see our website, www.mystikal-corps.org for all the information!

With our current brass and visual staff being comprised of Music Educators in the Texas Valley, it is only natural that we broaden our vision to encompass this very talent rich area. "I am pleased to be able to bring the Drum Corps Experience to the Texas Valley!" says Corps Director Chris Magonigal. "Our vision is to create a long term Brass Ensemble rooted in the RGV area that the students and educators there can be proud of and call their own. This is the first step in that process and our hope is to bring an affordable, less time consuming Drum Corps alternative to these talented music students."

Alfredo Vélez III is Assistant Professor of Music and Associate Director of Bands at Sam Houston State University. In this capacity, Mr. Vélez directs the Symphonic Band, Basketball Bands, and the Bearkat Marching Band. In addition to these ensemble responsibilities, he also teaches courses in advanced conducting and music education.

Alfredo Vélez holds a Bachelor and Masters degree in Music Education from Angelo State University. Mr. Vélez is in constant demand as guest conductor, clinician and adjudicator. His professional affiliations include the Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, Phi Beta Mu, National Band Association and the College Band Directors National Association.