Reinhardt’s annual Instrumental Concerto Competition, held on November 19, 2025, showcased the wealth of solo talent within Reinhardt’s School of Performing Arts. The winner, horn player Andrew Haynes (RU-2027), becomes the featured soloist at the University Wind Ensemble concert in Flint Hall on February 15, 2026, at 3 p.m. The judges selected Bryson Padgett (RU-2028)’s euphonium performance as runner-up.
Each contestant performed before a panel comprised of Dr. Kerry Bryant, Reinhardt director of instrumental activities, Jon Klausman, Reinhardt trumpet artist affiliate, and Casey Eubanks, director of orchestra at Shiloh High School in Lilburn, GA.
Since its conception in 2009, students apply to compete and spend months preparing. Each student receives instrumental instruction from Reinhardt artist affiliates, highly credentialed professional musicians who bring real-world experience into academics. “I couldn’t have won without the help of Horn Artist Affiliate Mackenzie Newell,” stated Haynes. “She guided me, and she pushed me to enter, and I am glad she did. I am excited and very honored to perform with the Wind Ensemble as a featured soloist.”
Haynes will perform “Villanelle,” by Camille Saint-Saens (France, 1835-1921), composed in 1906. All Reinhardt instrumental student performances are free and open to the public.
– By Suzy Alstrin
