Guest artist makes a lasting impression

Many musicians will say branching out is one of the best things you can do. Troy University’s John M. Long School of Music had the opportunity to play host to guest artist Dr. Logan Place last Wednesday.  

Dr. Place is the interim department chair as well as a trumpet instructor for the Department of Music and Performing Arts at Southeastern Louisiana University.

Throughout his time, Dr. Place didn't just study music; he actively performs for audience, sharing a notable message without recognizing it.  

“The music he played is different from a lot of things I’ve heard before,” said Dorian Cruz, a freshman music education major from Lakeland, Florida.  

The arrangement reflects the ideas of modern contemporary music by using bold harmonies, strong contrasts and expressive textures rather than traditional melodies. Dr. Place’s music brought the audience to attention with great emotion.  

 “I recognized the shifts between low and high intensity within Dr. Place’s performance,” said Anna Griggs, a sophomore music education major from Tallassee, Alabama. “Being a trumpet player myself, I could relate to many of the techniques and what he had to offer.  

“Having more guests like Dr. Place in Long Hall School of Music would be beneficial not only for me, but also for my classmates.” 

Not only did students who play trumpet as their primary instrument take note of Dr. 

 Place’s impact, but students who felt confident enough to branch out and take a chance to 

 expand their musical knowledge were also influenced by his performance.  

“I decided to attend the performance because of my love for all types of instruments,” said Carl Knight, a sophomore early childhood education major from Troy, Alabama, who plays piano. “It’s very important to have a strong stage presence, just like with Dr. Place’s body language and the way he held his instrument with pride, enhancing the overall performance.  

“This experience confirmed the idea that musicianship is something to be developed and explored, not limited to only one instrument.”  

Guest artists like Dr. Logan Place hope to leave a lasting impression on students, influencing their growth and reminding them of the importance of musicianship. 

To stay up to date with what musical events are to come, visit @troyuniversitymusic on Instagram.