Schwob’s Concerto Competition: A Celebration of Instrumental Diversity and Prestige

Written by Diego Montes 

The Schwob School of Music Concerto Competition has become one of the most anticipated traditions of the year. It is a stage where artistry, preparation, and passion meet and it is also an internationally recognized platform, giving young musicians the chance to stand in front of the Schwob Philharmonic Orchestra as soloists. For those who win, it is not only an achievement but a turning point in their careers. This year, three remarkable voices rose to the top and each of them carries a story shaped by years of study, personal connection to their repertoire, and the dream of bringing music to life in the best way possible. 

Schwob Philharmonic in Legacy Hall. Image via Schwob School of Music.

Drew Robertson– Trombone 

Drew’s story begins in Springfield, Missouri, where he grew up and studied at Missouri State University before coming to Schwob for his master’s degree. For him, the Tomasi Trombone Concerto is more than a performance piece, it has been a companion for much of his musical life. “I learned the 3rd movement back when I was a junior in high school (over 6 years ago!) and since then have learned the rest of the piece and continually played it over and over, over the past 6 years. It wasn’t until earlier this year that I was able to perform the full thing with piano and even though I have known and worked on the piece for so long. I’m excited to perform this work with orchestra for the first time.” 

Trombonist Drew Robertson. Image courtesy of the artist.  

When asked how he felt upon winning, Drew shared, “When I was notified that I won I was shocked for one because of all the amazing talent surrounding me at Schwob, but I was also overjoyed at the chance to play this concerto with an orchestra finally! I’m also thrilled to have a reason to come back and spend a little time in Columbus and at Schwob after graduating with my master's degree in May. (Also, maybe a little nervous to deliver an awesome performance!).” 

What excites him most, however, is also what challenges him the most. He admits the second movement, “Nocturne,” has tested his musical courage. “One of the most challenging parts of this piece for me is the 2nd movement, also the most recent for me to have learned. Tomasi really paints a beautiful picture of a dark and quiet night. The movement is very exposed both in dynamic and range and it takes a lot of courage to fully commit to Tomasi’s imagery.” For Drew, the chance to perform this concerto with orchestra is not just about notes and technique—it is about sharing the story that has lived with him for years. 

Saxophonist Xavier Martinez. Image courtesy of the artist.  

Xavier Martinez – Saxophone 

For Xavier Martinez, born and raised in Conyers, Georgia, the competition was a chance to showcase the unique voice of his instrument. He will perform the Alexandre Glazunov Saxophone Concerto in E-flat, Op. 109, a truly remarkable piece of the saxophone repertoire. “I am playing it because it is a large piece in our Standard Repertoire, and I have always loved the melodies and excitement the piece holds!” 

Xavier’s connection to the concerto came through his personal artistic project for the year. “I had chosen this piece, for my repertoire selection for the spring 2025 cycle, which was a full selection of Russian composers. Alexandre Glazunov and Sergei Rachmaninoff, which I played the cello sonata in G minor! I felt that both pieces blended well together, in both musical prowess and emotional tension!” This pairing reveals the depth of his musical maturity and his ability to draw connections between works across the repertoire. 

When the call came announcing his win, Xavier could hardly contain his excitement. “I screamed out in excitement thanking God for this wonderful opportunity he has blessed me with! It is truly one of my proudest achievements!” That joy, however, was earned through persistence. “The hardest part was keeping motivated and active on the piece, especially during the summer. What I had done was take a small break from the piece and got back into it by listening to recordings, and that was more than enough to hook me back to the piece!” For Xavier, the performance is not just about the concerto—it is about proving that “everyone can achieve success, no matter the instrument or even the limits.” 

Violinist Nathaniel Parker. Image courtesy of the artist. 

Nathaniel Parker – Violin 

Violinist Nathaniel Parker comes from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, a city full of winnings this year! And he will step into the spotlight with the Glazunov Violin Concerto in A minor, Op. 82, a work that he describes as both rhapsodic and emotionally intense. “I am ecstatic to be playing the Glazunov Violin Concerto in A minor, Op. 82 with the SPO. It is a piece which has always spoken to my heart from the fullness of its rhapsodic expression and emotional intensity, all enveloped in Glazunov’s lyrical and colorful musical language.” 

Part of what makes this concerto special for Nathaniel is its unusual form. “This concerto is truly a unique gem to the standard violin repertoire in the way that it is structured. Many find it difficult to identify exactly the number of movements it has, especially because the piece is played without pause. However, an even more peculiar element is that Glazunov nests the second movement inside of the first movement, which is almost unheard of. This creates an interesting balance of instability and stability, but it is done so seamlessly that it feels just right.” 

Nathaniel’s personal journey with the piece began with a recording. “I accidentally came across a recording of this piece played by Vadim Gluzman. It was my very first exposure to the piece and it instantly captivated me. I knew from that moment that there was a deep connection and hoped to be a part of sharing this music with the world. It is healing, bittersweet, active, intense, philosophical, charming, and triumphant - it fills a full spectrum of human expression.” His preparation came at one of the busiest moments of his academic year, yet he found focus through gratitude. “The competition happened at the busiest time of the semester, so being able to keep up with numerous other performances, projects, and focusing on finishing my degree was difficult. There is only so much capacity that our mental and emotional container can hold. However, during the process, I tried to reframe performing for this competition as an opportunity to show my gratitude for being at Schwob for 6 years.” 

Winning, for Nathaniel, is most meaningful because it brings him back to Columbus, to a community that has become like home, something that speaks so much about our community in Columbus. “Being able to return to Columbus to make music with the SPO is the most meaningful part of this competition. Since it will be the first time performing this piece with orchestra, I am eager to hear and experience it with new perspectives. I am filled with thankfulness to share this in a community that has become a second home for me.” 

Audiences will soon have the chance to experience these stories brought to life on stage. Drew and Xavier will perform their concertos with the Schwob Philharmonic Orchestra on September 29, while Nathaniel will share his performance on November 17 both Concert at Legacy Hall. Each concert promises not only extraordinary music but also a celebration of the dedication and artistry these musicians embody. For more details and updates on these and other upcoming performances, visit the Schwob School of Music website and stay connected to the vibrant musical life of Columbus, Georgia. ◾️