As a fan of musicals and Disney, I first came across this melody by Randy Newman, when watching the film, Toy Story 2. Soon after, I decided to arrange it for myself to play on the trumpet, with piano accompaniment. I believe the song holds a lot of fragility and vulnerability, similar to the themes of the Summer Showcase. In order to take some power and control myself, I decided to perform this piece on the Flugelhorn, an instrument which needs support and strength being bigger than the usual trumpet, but is also renowned for its warm, mellow tones, which would fit the piece well. As a pianist myself, I decided to arrange the piano part so I could play it, giving myself more power over being able to accompany friends and colleagues playing this piece as well.
However, in this performance, I believe there is an added element of loss of power, as I am performing live in a concert, which I believe, as a musician, can be an experience where you may lose power over yourself, due to stress or anxiety. As a brass player, this is often even worse, where notes can become shaky, breath support is lost, and hands become sweaty. Therefore, I believe this entry portrays my own power over my music (by arranging a melody myself and performing it), against a song which could be considered fragile and raw, which could be translated to my own feelings when performing, losing power and confidence due to nerves.Judge's comment
"I'm not as familiar with the flugelhorn as I should be, beyond its notoriety for having the most delightful name of all the brass instruments. Grace has proved my ignorance woeful. What a beautiful arrangement, played with clarity, warmth, and vulnerability. In Grace's entry she writes about vulnerability, as an essential part of performance and as a theme of Newman's song—and together they work in harmony in Grace's arrangement. I especially love the tone of her playing, and believe, with growing confidence, in continuing to harness the exceptional sensitivity Grace shows in her musicianship, there's much to look forward to from yet. A beautiful performance, and stellar arrangement." |  Jack Solloway |
About the author
How long have you been practising this artform, and what first attracted you to it?
Started the trumpet age 8, and now studying at the RNCM in Manchester. I was first introduced from my uncle, who used to play as a trumpeter in the army.
How did you get started? Was there anything that you found particularly helpful?
I had already learnt the piano before starting trumpet, so luckily I knew some of the basic notes, which really helped! However, a lot of practise went into the trumpet, as it is quite an abnormal art form!
What advice would you give to someone looking to pick up the same artform?
I would say to listen as much as you can, for both advice from peers and teachers, but also to listen to music (of all genres and styles) to find things that inspire you. I am always listening to new music, and it is really good for ear training and keeping me sane!
Is there an achievement that you're particularly proud of?
I think definitely getting an offer from the RNCM. I auditioned for six conservatoires, I was desperate to go to a music conservatoire! My teacher from home actually studied at the RNCM himself, so this was a big moment for us when he was able to train me to get an offer!
 | Grace Harman is a 21-year-old trumpeter originally from Suffolk, currently studying at the Royal Northern College of Music. She is a regular performer, conductor and leader. Grace is also a presenter for the Music for Youth National Festival, held at Birmingham’s prestigious Symphony Hall in both July 2022 and 2023. Grace has also worked at residencies with the National Children’s Orchestra of Great Britain and the Benedetti Foundation. Away from music, she loves watching musicals! |
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