New England Music Camp was honored that Chicago Symphony Orchestra member and NEMC alumnus Tage Larsen was in residency at NEMC August 11-16th. A member of the CSO since 2002, Mr. Larsen also performed with the Saint Louis Symphony and Annapolis Symphony orchestras. He also served as the Solo Cornet with the "President's Own" U.S. Marine Band.
A native of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Larsen received his Bachelor's of Music degree from Michigan State University, and did graduate work at the Eastman School of Music. He studied with Barbara Butler, who presently teaches at Northwestern University.
Mr. Larsen performed with the Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Band, Concert Orchestra, Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Jazz Band. In addition, he held several master classes.
Tage Larsen was kind enough to answer a few questions about his experiences as a camper and his return to NEMC. The dream is possible!
Webmaster: What are your fondest memories about NEMC from when you were a camper?
TAGE LARSEN: I have so many fond memories of NEMC. The first that come to mind are all of the friends I made when I was a camper. Friends that I still keep in touch with today. I spent three wonderful summers there and loved going back each year to see everyone. The year couldn't go by fast enough. I loved playing in all of the ensembles. I also enjoyed the challenge of being playing the bugle the last year I was there.
Webmaster: From a musical standpoint, what did you learn or take away from NEMC?
TAGE LARSEN: I was lucky to take lessons with Ed Sandor when I was there. He was and still is a great musician and a great teacher. He motivated me to work on the basics. I also learned so much from the ensemble conductors. Mr. Gregorian is one of the great orchestra conductors. His repertoire choices and motivation made every rehearsal and concert inspiring. Playing in the Jazz ensemble and Symphonic band where also highlights of my summers.
Webmaster: What is it like to return to camp after so many years?
TAGE LARSEN: Returning to camp was very surreal. When you leave camp as a camper for the last time it is hard to imagine every returning. I have been lucky enough to have been back twice. The first time was in 2000. The place hasn't changed!
Webmaster: What has it been like to bring your children here?
TAGE LARSEN: Bringing my boys Zachary and Ethan to NEMC this past summer was a great experience. More for me than for them! To see through their eyes the grandeur of the campus, the beauty of the lake, all of the sights and sounds was a great thrill. Hopefully one day they'll want to come as campers.
Webmaster: How did NEMC prepare you for your musical career?
TAGE LARSEN: I learned to love and appreciate music while I was a camper. Great private instruction and fantastic ensemble opportunities are something that prepared me for my career in music.
Webmaster: What advise would you offer a young musician about attending NEMC?
TAGE LARSEN: Have fun, work hard!
Picture #1-Tage with former teacher, Ed Sandor
Picture #2-Tage working with young trumpet students
Picture #3-Tage after performing Hayden, Trumpet Concerto, NEMC Symphony Orchestra, Leon Gregorian, conductor.
• Watch Tage Larsen "Dream Out Load" Video (YouTube)
