KARA CEKUTA
Staff Writer
The Brahms Requiem “Ein Deutsches Requiem (A German Requiem)” will be playing on March 4 in King Concert Hall from 8 to 10 p.m. The concert will feature the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra in honor of the passing of School of Music instructor Carl Mazzio.
This event will be celebrating the life of Mazzio, born and raised in Portland, Oregon. The retired principal trombonist of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra conducted over 300 compositions and led an extraordinarily successful career both as a musician and an educator.
Mazzio received his bachelor’s degree from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and his master’s from the Juilliard School of Music. He impacted both his colleagues and students immensely during his time at Fredonia.
Paula Holcomb, the wind ensemble director of the Fredonia School of Music, spoke about what will be remembered about this enthusiastic and uplifting member of the Fredonia community. She described how over 160 musicians volunteered their time to the tribute and how it “demonstrates his influence, respect and admiration.”
“He was a world class musician and a superb educator,” she said. “A rare combination, as he was also very passionate about supporting and nurturing the students, not only in the bands and his studio, but all students.”
David Rudge, a close colleague of Mazzio’s and director of orchestras and opera, also commented on the upcoming event. He described its formal dedication to Mazzio as a piece of celebration, one celebrating a well-lived life and a positive influence on so many peers and students. The piece chosen for this performance refers to the future, with an ethereal, atmospheric sound. Inspired by stargazing, it represents the relationship between heaven and earth.
Tickets are $8 for students and $15 for general admission. They can be purchased at the Fredonia Ticket Office located in the Williams Center or online.