by Chuck Cascio
An elite group of musicians performs at events like playing for funerals at Arlington National Cemetery and at White House special occasions. As a member of what is known as "The President's Own" band, Marine Master Sergeant Rob Singer, a 1995 graduate of South Lakes High School, has been playing trumpet at those and similar events since 2004.
"As a musician, my job is to entertain," Rob says, "but being a musician in the military carries with it added significance. I get to represent the country, honor service members, and be a part of historic events."
Growing up in Reston, Rob began playing trumpet at age 10 and says, "I decided I wanted to pursue a career in music after falling in love with classical music while attending a summer music camp in Michigan before my junior year of high school." Rob took that affection to college, earning a bachelor's degree in music performance from the University of Michigan, and a master's degree in the same field from Northwestern University. "While not required for a job in a performing ensemble, that major was the one that most prepared me for my current occupation," he says.
After college, Rob embarked upon a life filled with pursuing his love of music, freelancing, giving private lessons to more than 30 students, and auditioning for-- and playing in orchestras in Columbus, Ohio; Miami, Florida; Chicago, Illinois, and elsewhere. However, even as he worked, he says, "I continued to practice, study, and take lessons to help refine my skills."
When Rob learned of the opportunity to audition for the Marine Band, he took it, and he recalls, "I never intended to have a job in the military; the Marine Band was just one of several groups for which I auditioned, and I happened to win it." Rob reflects positively upon his years growing up in Reston. In addition to building his dream of becoming a musician, he says, "Reston was an ideal place to grow up. Kids were always around in the neighborhood; we played on the paths and in creeks, rode our bikes all over, and stayed outside until dinner. I had many fantastic teachers from elementary through high school."
Interestingly, despite the obvious honor Rob has achieved, he continues to work at mastering his instrument: "Even though I'm already a professional musician, I'm constantly trying to improve my skills. The better musician I am, the better I can connect with the audience and convey the emotion of the music."
That commitment has helped fuel Rob's success, but it is not something he takes for granted. Over the years, he has steadily applied his same youthful drive for music to his dedication to growth: "My goal for the immediate future is the same goal I had back in high school: to play my instrument on a world-class level, and to play with the best musicians possible."
For Rob Singer, maintaining and improving upon his goals is an ongoing motivation that leads him "to practice every day to make sure I'm physically and mentally as agile and strong as I can be." In fact, he adds, "I almost always bring my trumpet on vacation!"
Comments