February 3, 2022
Two Butler School Students recently earned prestigious positions with military bands. Chance Stine, a master’s student in the Butler School’s Saxophone Studio, will be joining Army Band "Pershing’s Own," and Megan Elks, also a master's student and teaching assistant in the school’s Saxophone Studio, will play in the United States Air Force Band, both in Washington D.C.
"Success is when preparation meets opportunity, and these two individuals were more than ready when the opportunity to audition for these positions arose, and we could not be more thrilled for them," said Stephen Page, the Studio's director.
Stine said he owes so much of his progress as a musician to his training under Associate Professor of Saxophone Stephen Page. “I think I came into his studio with facility and technique, but he has helped me push for true artistry,” Stine said. “Facility and technique are an integral part of artistry, but by asking the tough questions and pushing my brain and heart as much as my fingers, Dr. Page has guided me much closer to a truly authentic voice.”
Stine went on to note he’s grateful to have the opportunity to earn a living doing what he loves, and is excited to live and work in Washington D.C., given his love for American history that stems from his childhood.
“When I was in 2nd grade, I loved Presidential history so much that I memorized all the Presidents in order,” Stine said. “If you would have told 7-year old Chance that someday he'd play at a ceremony with Jimmy Carter and George W. Bush, he would have beamed.”