Featured Artist
The 51st Annual International Trumpet Guild Conference
Lexington, KY (USA)
Duo Iona
Shared Recital
The trumpet and clarinet ensemble Duo Iona has captivated audiences worldwide since its founding in 1996, performing in distinguished venues and presenting masterclasses across the globe. Renowned for championing new repertoire, the duo has premiered numerous works for this distinctive pairing, most recently Catherine McMichael’s Iona Voices (2024).
Dr. Suzanne Tirk is Professor of Clarinet and Assistant Director for Recruitment and Engagement at the University of Oklahoma. A dynamic performer and pedagogue, Suzanne has presented numerous performances, masterclasses, and conference workshops throughout the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Australia. She has served as principal clarinet with the Norman Philharmonic and Wichita Symphony Orchestras and performs regularly as a member of Duo Iona, an ensemble dedicated to the commissioning and performance of works for clarinet and trumpet. Suzanne is a Henri Selmer Paris Artist.
Dr. Richard Tirk is Professor of Music at Southwestern Oklahoma State University, where he teaches trumpet, directs jazz studies, and coordinates graduate music programs. An active international performer, he has appeared as a soloist and a member of Duo Iona across the United States and on five continents, including featured performances at the International Trumpet Guild Conference and with numerous regional orchestras. A dedicated clinician, he regularly presents masterclasses and workshops at universities and conservatories worldwide. Committed to advancing the repertoire, he has commissioned and premiered numerous new works, establishing a reputation as a leading advocate for contemporary trumpet music. Tirk is a Hub Van Laar Artist.