This summer, students and faculty from Florida State University’s College of Music embarked on an extraordinary concert tour through Costa Rica, bringing a blend of music and culture to the vibrant Central American nation. Hosted by the Centro Cultural Costarricense-Norteamericano (Costa Rican-North American Cultural Center) as part of the Promising Young Artists program, which receives support from the U.S. Embassy, this tour was a memorable fusion of artistic talent and cultural exchange.
A Musical Journey Through Costa Rica
From May 13-19, the FSU delegation toured Costa Rica, performing in key locations such as the bustling capital of San José, the lush cloud forest of Monteverde, and the picturesque Pacific coast town of Puntarenas. The group’s itinerary was packed with performances and educational masterclasses at local schools, as well as opportunities to explore Costa Rica’s natural beauty, from its rainforests and beaches to local markets and cuisine.
“This program offers a transformational international experience for students and faculty through shared musicianship and cultural experiences,” said Greg Jones, associate dean for community engagement at the College of Music.
Performances That Left a Mark
The talented musicians from FSU performed at various local schools, including the Instituto Nacional de la Música in San José and the Liceo de Miramar in Miramar. Their concerts were well-received at several notable venues, such as the Jazz Club El Sótano and the Eugene O’Neill Theater in San José, and the Guarumos Amphitheater in Monteverde, Puntarenas.
The group’s masterclasses, held at the Instituto Nacional de la Música in San José and the Etapa Básica de Música in Miramar, were highlights of the tour, offering local students invaluable hands-on learning experiences from their American counterparts.
The Honors Jazz Combo Shines
The Honors Jazz Combo at FSU was at the heart of this cultural exchange, showcasing their impressive talents throughout the tour. The group, composed of 10 jazz majors, included pianists Sammy Hanson and Asher Pereira; bassists Dane Harter and Kaleb Thompkins; drummers Nygel Anderson and Rudi Neubrander; saxophonists Kyle Bramson and Tyler Pauletti; trombonist Steven Blake; and trumpeter Wayne Pearcy.
David Detweiler, associate professor of Jazz Saxophone, who coached the students, joined the group on their tour. Their performances and interactions left a lasting impression on the Costa Rican audiences and provided an enriching experience for the FSU students.
Fostering Creativity and Entrepreneurship
The students selected for the tour were part of an innovative entrepreneurship program within the College of Music, launched in 2023. This program hosts an internal competition among student ensembles and receives backing from the U.S. Embassy and the Les and Ruth Akers Fund for Entrepreneurial Activity in Music. Through this competition, students submitted video performances and proposed programs designed to engage a broad audience using music.
“We are very thankful for the support of the Akers as we prepare talented musicians for 21st-century careers,” Jones said. “These innovative collaborations are inspiring great creativity in our students, with impressive results and experiential learning to last a lifetime.”
An Unforgettable Experience
The FSU College of Music’s tour through Costa Rica was more than just a series of concerts; it was a cultural exchange that fostered understanding and collaboration between two nations. The experiences and connections made during this tour will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on both the students and the audiences they reached.
For more information about the FSU College of Music and their programs, visit music.fsu.edu.
The FSU College of Music’s tour through Costa Rica was a remarkable success, blending musical talent with cultural exchange in a way that left a lasting impression on all involved. The dedication and talent of the students, combined with the support of various organizations, ensured that this was a transformative experience that will be remembered for years to come.
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