Andrew Stine, a Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music junior, has been named the 2024 Army Band National Collegiate Solo Competition winner. This remarkable achievement propels Stine into the spotlight as he’ll perform as a soloist with The U.S. Army Concert Band on June 7 at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.
While pursuing a double major in saxophone performance and jazz/commercial music, Stine’s musical journey was started by growing up in a household filled with music. Immersed in the world of musicianship from a young age, his family, particularly his mom and brother, both professional musicians, provided him with invaluable exposure to the joys and challenges of a musical career. Witnessing their performances in various settings, including their childhood church, ignited Stine’s passion for music and motivated him to pursue it himself.
“My high school presented me with incredible opportunities, including touring with my school band to Japan and New York, which helped to solidify my decision to pursue music at the collegiate level,” said Stine.
When choosing a university, the University of Memphis stood out to Stine, primarily because of the opportunity to study under Dr. Michael Shults, associate professor of saxophone. Renowned for his expertise in jazz and classical styles, Dr. Shults offered a rare chance to delve into both genres at an elite level. This dual focus was instrumental in his decision to join the UofM community.
“Andrew is one of the most meticulous and tenacious students I have encountered in over a decade of applied instruction in higher education,” said Shults. “He is always professional and prepared and has been a hugely positive influence on all of his peers at the School of Music. In my estimation, this accomplishment only portends even larger things to come.”
Stine’s academic journey has been enriched by experiences playing with the Southern Comfort Jazz Orchestra, the University Wind Ensemble and the Highland Saxophone Quartet. Recently, Stine was selected a winner in the 2024 University of Memphis’ Concerto Competition, where he will play his U.S. Army Concert Band piece at the University Wind Ensemble concert on April 24.
His upcoming performance with The U.S. Army Concert Band holds significance, particularly as his older brother, SSG Chance Stine, serves as a saxophonist within the U.S. Army Ceremonial Band. This familiar connection is just one of the reasons Stine auditioned in the first place. “The prestige that the U.S. Army Band holds as one the best bands in the country, along with the unique opportunity to get to solo with the band my brother is a part of, is going to be an absolutely incredible experience.”
For Stine, this opportunity marks a professional milestone and resonates deeply with his family’s military heritage, with both grandfathers having served in the Army. “My connection to the military runs deep within my family,” said Stine. “This opportunity further solidifies my admiration and respect for the armed forces.”
This admiration and respect influence Stine’s future career goals. Upon graduation, he plans to pursue graduate studies to either join one of the military bands through audition or become a saxophone professor at a university. These aspirations reflect his deep-rooted passion for music and his desire to continue honing his craft while inspiring future generations of musicians.
Grateful for the unwavering support from his family, mentors, and the University of Memphis community, Stine expresses eagerness as he embarks on this exciting journey with determination and dedication. He is eager to see where this opportunity takes him next.