Military Appreciation Month: Musician Second Class / E-5 Seville Jenkins ’14 GD
Military Branch: United States Navy
Military Band: United States Navy Band
“My colleagues and teachers always pushed me and I continue to have that same drive. For that, I am eternally grateful.”
Why did you choose NEC?
I was attracted to NEC’s Graduate Diploma. The program allowed me to take lessons, rehearse with my ensembles, freelance, and attend the Boston Symphony Orchestra every week. It also allowed me to continue serving with the 215th Army Band based in Fall River, MA.
What are some of your favorite memories from your time at NEC?
Jordan Hall is one of the most beautiful sounding halls in the country, and it attracts so many people from around the world. I served as the House Manager for Jordan Hall and there I met and worked with many other amazing NEC students.
One musical moment that I will never forget is performing Barber's Symphony No. 1 & Shostakovich Symphony No. 6 with the NEC Philharmonia and Contrapunctus IX with the Trombone Choir.
Share a story about one of your favorite faculty or studio instructor.
During my final year at NEC, I was in Stephen Lange's (Second Trombone - BSO) studio. He taught me how to stay calm and simply play the instrument. Fundamentals and a beautiful sound always came first, and playing should be as relaxed as possible. After a year of working with him, everything clicked. I am extremely happy that he and I crossed paths.
What have you been up to since graduating from NEC? What projects have you been working on?
Since graduating, I have held positions as House Manager & Substitute Trombone with the New World Symphony; Music Recruiter for the South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts & Humanities; Soldier, Musician & Recruiter in the 246th Army Band; and have freelanced all across the southeast. I have also made huge strides on the audition circuit and that has been very rewarding.
How have your NEC experiences shaped your artistic approach?
During my time at NEC, I immediately noticed that everyone had the "audition bug.” Everyone was extremely motivated to get better each and every day. My colleagues and teachers always pushed me and I continue to have that same drive. For that, I am eternally grateful.
Do you have any advice for young musicians/current NEC students?
Be present and don't take it too seriously. I've had the most fun and success playing when I just let go, let be, and enjoyed the moment.
Share any other stories about what has inspired you at NEC and beyond.
UNOS Pizza after performances was always a fun hang!
Learn more about Seville:
Current Job Title & Employer: Musician in the United States Navy
Graduation Year: 2014
Degree: Graduate Diploma
Major: Trombone Performance
Instrument: Trombone
Website: navyband.navy.mil
Facebook: facebook.com/seville.jenkins