BY CHRISTINA ULAJ
Clarkston News Staff Writer
A wife, a mother of four, a music teacher, a percussion player and the latest winner in the Adult Percussion Solo Competition in West Virginia ‘ladies and gentleman, meet Suzanne D’Ambrosio.
D’Ambrosio moved from Warren to the Clarkston area ten-years ago with her husband Joe. The two have four children – Thomas, 12; Jonathon, 10; Rosemary, 7; and Maria, 22-months. She continues to show a love for music that started at very young age.
Though the second grade seems like an early time to develop a passion, D’Ambrosio had music in her blood. Her father, Tom Shaner was a band director, and when the time came for D’Ambrosio to choose an instrument, she headed toward percussion.
D’Ambrosio immediately took a liking to percussion and all other instruments in the same family. She carried her passion with her to Central Michigan University where she graduated with a major in music education and a minor in percussion.
And performing is still a part of her life. D’Ambrosio’s father is the Vice President for the Motor City Brass Band, and also a cornet player. Her love for the group turned into an opportunity.
The Motor City Brass Band needed a percussionist and D’Ambrosio happily accepted. The Brass Band is involved in the North American Brass Band competition.
‘I decided as a challenge for myself to get involved in an adult competition,? said D’Ambrosio. ‘I wanted to get my skills to a level I felt was appropriate since I teach. It was just a personal goal.?
D’Ambrosio reached her goal and tookfirst place in the Adult Percussion Solo Competition in Charleston, West Virginia. She also performs with many other bands and orchestras throughout the metropolitan area.
Her most recent competition in Chicago was The US Open, which has nothing to do with tennis. The competition is based on entertainment value as well as musical value, and allows for group or solo participation. D’Ambrosio performed a xylophone solo with a brass quintet accompaniment.
‘Although I didn’t win, it was a great challenge for me to compete against all instruments and a variety of musical styles,? she said.
D’Ambrosio has been teaching private lessons out of her home for ten years. She currently has 13 students from the Clarkston, Rochester and Lake Orion areas, and is excited that her children have a love for music as well.
‘God gave me this talent, so I feel it is important to share it,? said D’Ambrosio. ‘It’s important to give back the community and to the church.?
In addition to the Motor City Bras Band and her competitions, D’Ambrosio also performs with many other bands and orchestras throughout the metropolitan area. She also plays in a praise band and accompanies choirs.
D’Ambrosio looks forward to sharing her music with others, and hopes to continue participating in competitions.