Music student named Project Strive Student of the Month

As an applied music major, Trump keeps busy, spending three to four hours each day rehearsing for classes and performances. Trump primarily plays the clarinet, but also picks up the tenor saxophone for Jazz Band, a genre of music she said she enjoys.

“I love jazz. It is something different and fun,” Trump said. “I really enjoy the spontaneity of it and the improvisation. You’re not always playing what’s on the page. It has been my escape from life for the last few years.”

In addition to Jazz Band, Trump has performed as a member of CSC’s Clarinet Quartet, Eagle Band, Woodwind Ensemble, and Birds, a jazz/pop group. Though her focus is in instrumental performing, Trump has also enjoyed performing in Concert Choir and Women’s Choir.

Since recovering from injuries suffered during an April car accident, Trump has done some great work, including completing her first recital, according to Professor of Music Dr. Michael Stephens.

“Bryony has made some great strides in her clarinet playing, as evidenced by her first recital in September and her premiere of Joe Cline’s “Thoughts on Water” in November. She has also played a major role in the CSC Jazz Band on both clarinet and tenor saxophone, with a solo feature in Duke Ellington’s “Harlem Airshaft.” We are currently preparing for her senior recital in the spring,” Stephens said.

Trump said CSC’s music professors are incredible.

“They are all very friendly. They know what they are doing and are knowledgeable,” Trump said.

Trump said the Project Strive/TRiO staff members have been helpful, especially Counselor Sonja Dressel.

“She has been great about helping me get back on track and getting me into the mindset of ‘I can succeed,’” Trump said. “The staff is just a really good support network.”

Dressel said she has enjoyed learning about Trump’s musical interests.

“One of my favorite parts of being a Project Strive adviser is learning about the eclectic interests of our students,” Dressel said. “Bryony is a talented musician and performer who has shared her love for music across all genres with me. I love hearing about new bands and composers.”

Other campus involvement for Trump includes the National Association for Music Education and Music Teachers National Association.

Future plans for Trump, who is set to graduate in May, include returning to school for a master’s degree in musicology and possibly becoming a music research scientist.

“Current music trends really interest me. No matter what you listen to in the popular music scene, it includes bits and pieces of influences that have come from all over the world. I would like to do research with music history and keep performing,” Trump said.

Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit the Project Strive website.