Klock, student sax quartet perform in Russia

Music professor Lynn Klock and one of his student saxophone quartets recently traveled to Russia to perform for the city of Pskov’s 1106th Founder’s Day celebration. State Sen. Stanley Rosenberg’s established relations between Pskov and the state of Massachusetts, as well as UMass, allowed for the performance and cultural exchange.

It was a combination of the relationship that Rosenberg has with Pskov and UMass, the city of Pskov looking for groups to perform for their celebration, as well as the Provost Office’s support, said Klock. The city of Pskov sponsored the group while they were there, while the provost obtained the flights to Russia and a few days in St. Petersburg. Chairman of the Department of Music and Dance, Jeff Cox, also aided in the group’s trip.

“Thanks to the Provost’s Office and Charlena Seymour,” said Klock. “This couldn’t have happened without support from the provost. We’d also like to thank Jeff Cox for his work and support.”

When the group arrived in Russia, they explored St. Petersburg’s cathedrals, Hermitage museum, and authentic restaurants and pubs. The next stop on their itinerary: Pskov and the celebration of the city.

“When we got to Pskov they treated us like we were ambassadors of the United States,” said Thomas Glassey, tenor player in the quartet and second-year graduate student. “It was almost like we were representing the United States, not only Amherst or UMass. It was definitely a strange feeling because I’m just this kid that goes to school in Massachusetts. We were so fortunate to have such generous and gracious hosts.”

The group was welcomed by three students who acted as guides and translators, as well as a main guide for their stay in Pskov.

“The people that we met were so genuinely warm and receptive,” said Klock, “They were excited because they were able to work on their English and we were excited because we had people translating for us.”

Senior and alto saxophone player in the quartet, Kara Nye, enjoyed the opportunity to interact with the student representatives. “The cultural exchange enhanced the experience, while the universal aspects of humanity allowed us to relate and connect,” said Nye.

The group was then introduced to the mayor of Pskov, with whom they presented a letter from the chancellor, as well as a UMass banner. As guests of the mayor, the group enjoyed fireworks for the city’s celebration. After exploring the countryside, historical landmarks, and the city of Pskov in general, the group performed three concerts for the city’s celebrations. Playing American music, the group marched in a parade through the city, performed at a festival and shared a recital with a jazz group from Pskov.

“The parade was when I felt the strongest that we were part of the festival and that was just an honor. It was so exciting being right there in the middle of the festivities, to help in creating that atmosphere,” said Glassey. People were dancing to our music and loving it, said Tobias Thomas, ’09 graduate of the Music Department and soprano player in the quartet.

“It’s so nice to see how your music affects others. They were so happy and enthusiastic, which in turn motivated us to play even better,” said Mat Schumer, senior and baritone saxophone player in the quartet.

After a week filled with sight-seeing, new friends and music, the group returned to Amherst.

“This was certainly one of the most amazing weeks of my life, and the fact that this opportunity was given to me because I play the saxophone at UMass is, well, unbelievable,” said Thomas, who is also the new Amherst High School 7-12 grade band director. “Our life experience dictates our actions through a changed perspective. This experience in Russia has made me a better person; I can only hope that it makes me a better teacher.”

“We are indebted to the University, the provost, Dr. Cox, Senator Rosenberg, and the people in Pskov for making this possible and hosting us,” said Glassey. “It was a once in a lifetime privilege.”

September 3, 2009.

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