The Ave Maria University athletic department is pleased to announce that Trenton O'Neil has been named the University's new marching band director.
"As the new director of the Marching Gyrenes, I hope to grow the program in many ways, including strengthening the skills of its members, creating an enjoyable environment with fun traditions, and bringing its members closer to Christ in every way, like any great ensemble should," said O'Neil.
O'Neil graduated from the University in the spring of 2022, earning his degree in music, training in vocal performance, organ performance, and choral conducting. He was a founding member of the Ave Maria marching band, joining the program as it launched over the past few years.
"In AMU Marching Band's first year, I played saxophone, tuba, and tenor drums, basically to fill in wherever we needed," said O'Neil. "I, like many young musicians, found my passion for music as a 'band kid,' playing saxophone and clarinet for my middle school and high school bands. My roots as a band member have always held a special place in my heart."
In addition to earning a music degree and being a founding member of the AMU marching band, O'Neil was also the recipient of the Karen Laub Music Scholarship as well as the Music Department Award during his time at the University.
O'Neil was also an athlete during his time at Ave Maria, competing for the AMU swim team during their inaugural season of 2021-22. He is currently a music teacher at Donahue Academy in Ave Maria after spending a year teaching music in Immokalee.
Prospective band members seeking more information on the program and its scholarship opportunities should fill out this questionnaire and can contact AMU's Director of Scouting, Eric VanHeusen, at eric.vanheusen@avemaria.edu, or O'Neil at Trenton.ONeil@avemaria.edu.
Original source can be found here.
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