by MICHAEL DASHIELL
Sequim Gazette
Just like old times.
When Sequim High School graduate Naomi Fosket picked up her trumpet for one of her final performances at Seattle Pacific University, she had a familiar face leading the way.
Her father, Vern, the band director at Sequim High School, served as guest conductor for his daughter’s solo at the Seattle Pacific University Orchestra’s “Cornucopia of Instrumental Music” concert on Nov. 12.
Naomi performed Franz Joseph Hayden’s “Andante” from “Concerto for Trumpet” with her father leading the way. Now a 21-year-old senior at the university, she said it was a moment she’ll treasure.
“Definitely a good memory,” she said. “It was a little strange because I’d never done a concerto before a solo performance (but) it felt nice to have my dad there. It was tough — we only got one rehearsal.”
Gerry Marsh, director of music, helped set up the rare family performance, one Vern Fosket was happy to join.
“I thought it was a great opportunity … to share our musical likings and desires and careers before she finished and is out on her own,” Vern Fosket said. “She did wonderful.”
A 2007 graduate of Sequim High, Naomi is aiming to follow in her father’s footsteps as a music teacher.
She’s slated to finish her college career with student teaching next quarter at a high school in Lynnwood, then to student teach at an elementary school (location unknown) next spring.
Her father said she’s well-prepared for the career, if judging by her musical acumen.
“Her musical talent has grown tremendously since high school,” Vern said. “It’s nice to see her degree of musicianship grow.”
Vern was the school band director during Naomi’s high school career. The daughter said it was never really strange to have a parent as her band leader.
“I was just used to it, I guess,” she said. “Band was cool. That helped.”
Perhaps tougher for Naomi than any Hayden piece is trying to secure a job after college.
“I don’t really care (where); teaching general music is fun,” Naomi said.
“In this day and age,” Vern added, “finding a job is the hardest thing to do.”
Reach Michael Dashiell at miked@sequimgazette.com.
