Kipp Hodnett

A native of Richmond, VA, I grew up in Washington, NC and developed a love for music while participating in the music progams in the Washington area schools of Washington, NC. I began freelance performing in 1998, while still in high school, and also began teaching during my senior year, after some experience with the drum corps, Carolina Crown.

Upon graduating from Washington High School, I continued teaching marching bands, and eventually started my bachelor's degree at East Carolina University where I majored in Music Education, with a concentration in trumpet. I graduated ECU in 2007 with a BM in Music Education, and eventually taught General Music/Choir in the great state of North Carolina. In 2009, I started a Masters in Music Performance with a dual concentration in Instrumental Conducting and Trumpet. Throughout my time at ECU, my principle conducting teachers have been Dr. Scott Carter & Dr. Chris Knighten. I have studied trumpet, principally with Dr. Britton Theurer, and several other teachers have contributed to my trumpet studies: Jon Nelson, Dr. Karl Sievers, Laurie Frink, Kevin Maloney, Richard Stoelzel, Brian McWhorter, & Mark Gould. I am curently finishing my degree writing a paper on Chronicles by Joseph Turrin.

My drum corps experience started in 1998 where I earned a spot with Carolina Crown for the 1999 season, but was not able to continue and march through tour. I then was with Tarheel Sun in their final year in 2000, but quit prior to tour due to circumstances beyond my control. I finally marched in 2005 with Carolina Gold, and was eventually on brass staff with them in 2008 as they returned from a year of non-touring status. I'm looking to make my return to the field this year, and hopefully return to teaching drum corps soon!

I began designing drill in 2006, and have written for several Eastern NC high schools. I'm am currently looking to expand my clientele and fill vacant spots in my design schedule. My design philosophy is effect based: dealing with visual effects through transitions, and creating impact points appropriate to the musical effects being attempted. I also teach/consult programs both musically and visually. Don't hesitate to contact me for details.

I recently became interested in fitness, and lost 200 pounds. I have gained some back, but I'm working to lose it, and more, again! Being healthy has become a high priority in my life, and I like to help others to the same.