Forrest Albano
he/him
trumpet
Hometown: Arlington, TX
Alma maters: University of Texas at Arlington, Music Education; Southern Methodist University, M.M.
Photos by Matt Dine
Appearances
National Repertory Orchestra, 2022
When did you realize you wanted to pursue music as a career?
When I was 11 years old I connected to classical music in a way beyond words. It seemed magical because you couldn’t pin down the emotional ride it could take you through. When I realized that my love for the art was a gift that I could share with others, I decided to pursue it as a career.
Which composer or genre of music do you feel you connect with the most?
Classical, jazz, neo-soul, hip-hop, indie, rock, world
What has been your favorite experience as a musician?
My favorite experience as a musician is to share the stage with other musicians. Music is a present art form, and it requires us to be there. The moment it happens, it’s gone. You can record a performance and you will be able to hear it, but you will be missing out on the feeling and energy of where that art was coming from. The room, audience, political climate, and even someone’s morning all change how a piece will be performed from night to night. For musicians to try and hone in to each other’s energy to create something is beautiful. Nowhere else can I sense others deeply listening to one another and coming together.
Favorite non-classical musician or band
Gorillaz
If you could play another instrument, what would it be?
Cello <3
If you weren’t a musician, what would you be doing?
I would spend more time backpacking, mountaineering, and helping others get to remote places.
Tell us something about yourself that might surprise us
I like to challenge myself and complete 20+ mile hikes before afternoon rehearsals.
Piece of advice for a young classical musician
You should practice only to better communicate your artistry, not to be objectively perfect in the eyes of others.