26-Year-Old Curtis Graduate Wins Principal Trumpeter Position with Philadelphia Orchestra After Three Audition Attempts.

The Philadelphia Orchestra has concluded its extensive search for a principal trumpeter with the appointment of James Vaughen, a recent graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music, following auditions that culminated on November 1. Vaughen, 26, has demonstrated resilience, having auditioned for the coveted position three times prior without securing the role.

The prolonged search for a permanent principal trumpeter has persisted intermittently over several years, with Vaughen finally succeeding in his fourth attempt. The final round of auditions proved particularly intense for Vaughen, as he performed in front of respected instructors and former mentors from Curtis. Traditionally, preliminary auditions are conducted behind a screen to maintain candidate anonymity and impartiality among the judging panels.

After a thorough evaluation, Vaughen’s performance resonated with the selection committee, earning him the position. However, this success comes with its complications; Vaughen has recently commenced his role as principal trumpeter with the Minnesota Orchestra, and as of the latest updates, his official start date with the Philadelphia Orchestra remains undetermined.

Faced with the dilemma of choosing between two prestigious orchestral opportunities, Vaughen acknowledged that the choice was straightforward. The Philadelphia Orchestra has long been a dream destination for him, having a deep-rooted appreciation for its sound and legacy, largely influenced by his studies under David Bilger, the orchestra’s former principal trumpeter.

Vaughen brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously served as assistant principal trumpeter for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and holding a principal trumpet position with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra for one year. He is set to succeed Esteban Batallán, who transitioned back to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra less than six months after being lauded as a historic hire for Philadelphia.

Vaughen’s journey to this point has been marked by a significant personal and professional evolution. Born in Williamsville, New York, and raised in Virginia, he faced initial setbacks in his music career, including not being accepted to the Curtis Institute on his first attempt. Opting to spend a year with AmeriCorps in Mississippi, he focused on tutoring young students, an experience he describes as both musically and personally transformative. This year away from intense competition allowed him to heal from injuries sustained while playing the trumpet, ultimately allowing him to approach his art with renewed passion and focus.

As Vaughen prepares for his new role, Philadelphia Orchestra’s music and artistic director Yannick Nézet-Séguin has commended him as an exceptional talent whose unique sound and skills will seamlessly integrate into the orchestra’s esteemed legacy. With Vaughen’s deep commitment to the Philadelphia Orchestra and his impressive background, many anticipate a promising future for both the musician and the ensemble.