A newly established performing arts series for Rockford music students held its first concert on May 5, featuring father and son classical virtuosos Rich and Brandon Ridenour. The pair presented their celebrated “Trumpet Invasion” at the Rockford High School Auditorium.
The first concert in the Rockford High School Performing Arts Series was made possible by a Founders’ Grant from the Rockford Education Foundation. The $25,000 grant was awarded last spring to establish a performance/master class series and provide opportunities for students to hear and interact with top professional musicians. The Ridenours also conducted a master class for more than 250 students.
Rich Ridenour is an acclaimed classical and pop pianist who has made over 50 recordings, including Piano Pops 1 and 2 with the Grand Rapids Symphony. His trumpeter son Brandon at age 20 became the youngest member ever to join the Canadian Brass, and has performed across the world as a soloist, with leading orchestras and in support of artists including Sting and James Taylor.
