Charles Lazarus Tours West Texas

Minnesota Orchestra trumpeter Charles Lazarus visited the campus of Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas, on February 4, 2026, for a pair of masterclasses and recitals.

The first class featured students of Dr. David Amlung from McMurry University and Abilene Christian University. Selections performed included works by Haydn, Bozza, and Charlier. Students from Hardin-Simmons University, Abilene High School, and Cooper High School (studio of Jay Lester), as well as Wylie High School (studio of David Amlung), performed in the second masterclass, which featured music by Balay, Hummel, Goedicke, Anderson, Charlier, and Arban. Both sessions featured Lazarus on selections from his show entitled A Night in the Tropics, which he performed with the San Angelo Symphony along with his combo later that week. Following the sessions, students were able to ask questions about auditions, career moves, and music industry practices. Prior to the classes, Lazarus enjoyed Texas brisket at The Shed BBQ, one of his favorite meals. On Saturday, February 7, Lazarus performed at Angelo State University and discussed his career and best practices with the trumpet studio of Dr. John Irish. This series was partially funded by a grant by the Yamaha Corporation of America. (Source: Jay Lester)