Music composition students receive prestigious recognitions
By Dr. Carrie Jerrell | May 27, 2026
MURRAY, Ky. — Two music composition students, Brady Johnson and Tyson VandenBrook, in Murray State’s Department of Music have recently received prestigious recognitions for their work.
Senior Brady Johnson's original work, Octet no. 2 for eight trombones, will be featured in a concert at the International Trombone Festival this summer in Latvia. The piece won the 2025 International Trombone Association Composition Contest (Octet Division) last year. The competition is open to everyone from students to professional composers.
Johnson, a native of Louisville, Kentucky, said he wanted the composition to highlight the frolicking, bold and cartoon-like personality that a trombone ensemble can bring to life.
“Those qualities reflect some of my favorite memories performing and writing for this kind of repertoire, and I hoped to capture both the fun and expressive power of the ensemble,” said Johnson.
Johnson has been composing since high school, though his passion for creating music, and especially for film, began much earlier.
“I had been surrounded by music from a young age, but I didn’t begin composing my own works until I was 16,” said Johnson. “After experiencing several meaningful opportunities and achievements with composition during high school, that passion only continued to grow and confirmed my desire to pursue a career in the arts. What I love most about being a music major is the constant opportunity for collaboration. Whether I’m working with fellow music students, student filmmakers or faculty, I’m surrounded by creative people who inspire and challenge me daily. That environment of support and artistic connection has been one of the most valuable parts of my college experience, and it continues to open new doors for my growth as a composer.”
Freshman music major Tyson VandenBrook's original piece "Fireflies," for two vibraphones and three marimbas, was accepted for performance at the Great Lakes chapter of The College Music Society's annual conference, held at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale in April. VandenBrook was also selected by the judging committee to receive the Best Student Composition Award. The contest was open to graduate students as well as undergraduates.
VandenBrook, who originally hails from Olive Branch, Mississippi, says the idea for the piece came from the local landscape.
“The inspiration for the piece came to me when I was visiting my mom who lives out by Land Between the Lakes,” VandenBrook said. “One evening, I was looking out across the vast grassy fields, and I saw fireflies flashing and dancing rhythmically across them. I realized observing them collectively was far more picturesque than watching just one. I wrote ‘Fireflies’ with this in mind; the piece shows how different parts ‘communicate’ with each other and come together to create something complex and beautiful.”
Like Johnson, VandenBrook’s interest in composing began at an early age.
“I think what drew me most to music composition is the idea of storytelling,” said VandenBrook. “With music, you can create a story and convey a feeling anyone in the world can appreciate–regardless of their language or background. I think that is such a magical thing.”
“Winning this award is incredibly special to me as it is a major step in spreading my music to new audiences,” he said. “To me, the best feeling in the world is hearing somebody deeply moved or inspired by listening to one of my pieces. Opportunities like these allow me to inspire and connect a growing number of people through music.”
Johnson says he couldn’t agree more.
“Winning this award has been incredibly rewarding and humbling,” said Johnson. “More than anything, it feels like a meaningful reflection of the time, energy and care I’ve invested into developing my craft. It has also given me an even greater appreciation for the professors, friends and family members whose encouragement and support have helped shape me both as a composer and as a person.”
Murray State’s Department of Music has been a member of the National Association of Schools of Music since 1936 and has a long and outstanding tradition of excellence, providing a comprehensive music education for the aspiring professional teacher, performer, composer and music industry professional. Its nationally-recognized faculty, facilities and resources are why the department is held in such high regard as the musical center of the region.
“Our composition students have regular opportunities to share their music with the campus and local community, but having their music heard by a wider audience is a significant step in their development as artists,” said Dr. Michael D’Ambrosio, chair of the Department of Music. “Brady and Tyson are both serious about their craft, and they have earned these opportunities and accolades through their hard work, talent and dedication.”
For more information about the Department of Music, visit murraystate.edu/music.