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Student Trumpeter To Perform On European Tour

Kathy Waters/Highlands Today

Avon Park High School junior Xavier McLeod, 16, is trying to raise money to go to Europe and perform in the international band.

By MARC VALERO | Highlands Today

Published: February 9, 2008

AVON PARK — Xavier McLeod liked the sound of the trumpet, which inspired him to take up the instrument five years ago.

Now the 16-year-old high school junior plays the horn as a member of the Avon Park High School Grenadier Band. Early in the fall he was accepted in the West Coast Symphony Orchestra. He travels to Sarasota every Monday evening to practice with the symphony.

McLeod also takes private lessons.

"I'm looking at making music as a career right now, but it might change in the future," he said.

His present plans are to go to college as a music major, but hasn't yet decided on the college he will attend.

McLeod's favorite trumpeter is jazz musician Wynton Marsalis.

His path to musical success included auditioning and being accepted to attend the Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Michigan. While attending the camp last summer he auditioned and was accepted into the Northern Wind Ensemble, which will perform in various cities on a 21-day European tour this summer.

McLeod's ultimate goal is to play in a major symphony orchestra.

Avon Park Band Director Robert Brewer added, "the Boston Pops."

McLeod replied, "yes, something like that."

In a letter to Brewer, Mcleod's parents, Mike and Sandy, said, "as proud and devoted parents we try to always be supportive of his goals and encourage participation in any activity that will enhance his skills and indeed add to the quality of any band or orchestra he is associated with."

Brewer said, "Xavier is always here, always on time. He practices diligently. He's a great asset to our program."

The European tour will cost about $6,000, including the cost of uniforms and three return trips to the music camp in Michigan.

Those who would like to make a donation, to help Mcleod make the trip where he will represent the Grenadier Band and Avon Park, should contact Brewer at Avon Park High at 452-4311.

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