Country

:

Canada

Birth

:

March 15, 1935 in Guelph, Ontario, Canada

Death

:

September 7, 2009 in Monroe, GA

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Orchestral

 

Fred Mills was a renowned classical music artist who made significant contributions to the world of music as a trumpeter, conductor, and educator. Born on June 8, 1935, in Hazard, Kentucky, Mills grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a trumpet player, and his mother was a pianist. Mills started playing the trumpet at the age of nine and quickly showed exceptional talent. Mills attended the University of Kentucky, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1957. He then went on to study at the Juilliard School in New York City, where he received a Master of Music degree in 1959. During his time at Juilliard, Mills studied under the tutelage of William Vacchiano, who was the principal trumpeter of the New York Philharmonic. After completing his studies, Mills began his professional career as a trumpeter with the New York City Opera Orchestra. He then went on to play with the American Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. In 1968, Mills joined the Canadian Brass, a quintet that revolutionized the world of brass music. The group's unique blend of classical music, jazz, and popular music made them a hit with audiences around the world. Mills remained with the Canadian Brass for over 20 years, during which time the group recorded over 100 albums and performed in countless concerts. The group's performances were known for their high energy, humor, and virtuosity. Mills was a key member of the group, and his trumpet playing was a highlight of every performance. In addition to his work with the Canadian Brass, Mills was also an accomplished conductor. He served as the music director of the Georgia Brass Band and the University of Georgia Wind Ensemble. He also conducted numerous orchestras and bands around the world, including the New York Philharmonic, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra. Mills was also a dedicated educator. He taught at the University of Georgia for over 20 years, where he was the director of the trumpet studio and the brass ensemble. He also taught at the Banff Centre for the Arts in Canada and was a frequent guest lecturer at universities and music schools around the world. Throughout his career, Mills received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of music. In 1998, he was awarded the Order of Canada, one of the country's highest honors. He was also inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame in 2003. Sadly, Mills passed away on April 12, 2009, at the age of 73. However, his legacy lives on through his recordings, performances, and the countless musicians he inspired and taught throughout his career. Fred Mills was a true master of his craft, and his contributions to the world of music will be remembered for generations to come.

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