June 2014 Winner: Luke Hamilton
Luke Hamilton has been a member of the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra (CSYO), directed by William White, for the past two years. He recently was a winner of the CSYO Concerto Competition and performed the Arutiunian Concerto with the orchestra in March 2014. He studies privately with Steven Pride, second trumpet of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.
Luke is principal trumpet in the Lakota West High School Symphonic Winds and trumpet section leader for the Lakota West Marching Firebirds, both under the direction of Greg Snyder. This November, he will march with the Firebirds in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Luke is also a two-year member of the College-Conservatory of Music Preparatory Department Brass Choir, directed by Paul Hillner, and is currently principal trumpet with that group.
Luke served as principal trumpet for the 2013 Ohio All-State Band and has been accepted as a member of the 2014 Ohio All-State Orchestra. In 2013, he was a finalist in the high school division of the National Trumpet Competition, held at George Mason University. During his sophomore year, he performed at the prestigious Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic with the Lakota West Symphonic Winds. He has also twice performed in the Lakota West Pit Orchestra, playing for such musicals as The Music Man and All Shook Up.
Luke plans to major in trumpet performance next year. In his free time, he enjoys running, weightlifting, and listening to music. He also plays electric guitar in his church worship band. He is very thankful for the support of his parents and family and feels very fortunate to have such accomplished mentors. As the June 2014 Young Artist Award recipient, Luke will receive a one-year complimentary membership to ITG. Congratulations, Luke!