Golden Valley High trumpet player to join national music ensemble

Ethan Chilton of Merced is sure his trumpet will take him far. For starters, it will take him to Indiana next month.

Chilton, a senior at Golden Valley High School, was chosen by video audition to join the 2016 Jazz Band of America, a select group of high school musicians who will perform during the Music for All National Festival, set to take place March 9-12 in Indianapolis.

The Jazz Band of America, “a national honors ensemble,” will have students from 10 states, representing 16 high schools, according to the Music for All organization.

An organization spokeswoman said the festival’s jazz ensemble will be made up of 20 musicians, chosen from about 300-plus that tried out.

Chilton has been playing the trumpet for seven years. What started as a slight interest in the fifth grade soon grew into a passion, he said. He is part of Golden Valley’s Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo.

“I quickly took the trumpet and thought, ‘Wow, I really like this,’ ” he said. “I would close myself off in my room and practice for a really long time.”

In an attempt to expand his musical opportunities, Chilton researched state and national contests and concerts. He first found out about the Music for All festival through YouTube.

“I really wanted to know more about what people were doing with the trumpet,” Chilton said. I managed to browse through YouTube and discover opportunities like this.”

Chilton has received numerous awards for his playing ability, and last month, he was chosen to perform with the Northern California State Honor Band in Stockton. His acceptance to the program will be a new milestone in his musical career, he said. His trip to Indiana also will be Chilton’s first major trip outside California.

“To be selected from among their peers for membership in this national ensemble is a great achievement and honor,” said Music for All President Eric Martin. “The 2016 Jazz Band of America members are ambassadors of America’s music programs, as well as their states, schools and communities.”

The senior said he is serious about playing the trumpet in college. He had an audition at the University of Southern California earlier this month and is crossing his fingers for acceptance to the prestigious music program.

This story was originally published February 2, 2016 at 6:00 PM with the headline "Golden Valley High trumpet player to join national music ensemble."