Reagen Simmons shows out for senior recital

Every single semester, whether it seems like it or not, stands as the end of some seniors’ experience as bachelor’s students. Reagen Simmons, a senior music industry major from Jacksonville, Alabama, is one of those students this semester.  

Simmons, a saxophonist, said when she first started as a Troy student, she never expected herself to be where she is today as a musician. 

“Troy has helped me grow immensely in my knowledge of many different styles of music, as well as my overall proficiency in saxophone,” Simmons said. “I have learned so much over the past four years.”  

Mackenzie Smith photo

Reagen Simmons plays her saxophone.

Simmons said her fondness for the saxophone began in her childhood with a toy saxophone which she absolutely loved.  

“It had real keys, and I made my own songs on it all the time,” Simmons said. “When the time came in sixth grade to choose an instrument for Beginning Band, I chose the saxophone because of how much I loved playing with that toy sax!” 

Aside from graduation, Simmons, as a music major, is also looking to perform her senior recital very soon. 

A senior recital is a performance that all music majors must complete in order to graduate.

The recitals must contain music from at least three different eras, alongside at least one chamber piece.  

Simmons said she thinks the senior recitals are important because they offer seniors a chance to show their friends and family what they’ve learned during their time spent studying at college. She said it’s an opportunity for seniors to showcase multiple years of work, preparation and proficiency poured into their instrument.  

For Simmons, looking to perform in her very own senior recital is exciting and surreal.  

“It feels like just yesterday I was attending other students’ senior recitals when I was a freshman,” Simmons said. “Now, I get the chance to perform my own!” 

After graduating, Simmons plans on getting her master’s degree in music – most likely in saxophone performance.  

“I love playing the saxophone more than anything, and I’d like to continue to learn more,” Simmons said. 

As attendees filled Long Hall for Simmons’ recital, she readied herself for her performance – a performance she said went really well. 

“Everything went according to plan, and I had a lot of fun,” Simmons said. “I loved finally being able to showcase what I’ve been working on.” 

Simmons’ family were among the many who came to see Simmons perform. Simmons said she was truly grateful that they made the three-and-a-half-hour drive from Jacksonville, Alabama, to watch her perform.  

She also made note of her grandma’s attendance. 

“My grandma is a musician, too, and always played duets with me when I first started on saxophone,” Simmons said. “We play duets every Christmas as well. 

“It was very special to perform for her.” 

Simmons said she’d like to thank Dr. Benjamin Crook, Austin Horne, Bryson Grimsley and Eli McNeill for agreeing to perform in her recital and for providing their help and support during her preparation.