WHAT'S NEW AT ABOP?
Check back here frequently for the latest news and events from ABOP.
Drop us a line at info@abop.us with your questions and comments.
New ABOP Podcast
Senior ABOP ProtÈGÈS
Raynor Carroll, retired Principal Percussionist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, engages in a discussion with ABOP protégés Jakalin Bryant and Torrance Buntyn Jr. The discussion includes their experiences before and during their protégé status in ABOP’s Mentorship Program.
Jakalin Bryant is in his senior year at Valdosta University, Georgia. Torrance Buntyn Jr. is completing his performance diploma at Southern Methodist University. Both gentlemen have been a protégé in ABOP’s mentorship program since its inception in 2023.
Check out more details on our Podcast Page.
Protégés perform with
the new philharmonic of irving
On April 12, 2026, Torrance Buntyn Jr. and Donielle Woodard, both ABOP protégés, shared the stage with the New Philharmonic of Irving. The program included the Russian Easter Overture by Rimsky-Korsakov and the Piano Concerto No. 2 by Sergei Rachmaninoff.
Torrance, who’s about to receive his performance diploma from Southern Methodist University, shared, “My experience with the New Philharmonic of Irving this week was a wonderful and unique opportunity not only to learn standard percussion repertoire but also to gain real-world experience performing live with an orchestra.” Donielle, a sophomore percussionist also at Southern Methodist University, added, “I had a lot of fun performing with the orchestra and a good time meeting the other musicians and building a connection with my section. I’m looking forward to another performance with them!”
Congratulations to Torrance and Donielle for being involved in their community and for all the valuable stage experience they’re gaining!
New ABOP Podcast
Section Percussionist
Raynor Carroll leads a discussion along with ABOP mentors Terry McKinney and Torrell Moss, on the expectations and responsibilities of a section percussionist in a symphony orchestra. The discussion includes musicality, logistical considerations, personality, questions by ABOP protégés, and more.
Check out more details on our Podcast Page.
Protégés perform at
LA General Medical Center
Three Southern California-based protégés performed in the lobby of Los Angeles General Medical Center on March 15, 2026. Alexa Clawson, Cosmo Fernandez, and London Johnson presented works that included J.S. Bach, Keiko Abe, and improvised selections.
Patients, doctors, nurses, staff, and families enjoyed the soothing sounds of gongs, hand pans, and wind chimes, in addition to the melodic beauty of Bach on marimba.
Los Angeles General Medical Center is a premier public teaching hospital and Level-One trauma center serving LA County since 1878. Known for its historic 1933 “Great Stone Mother” Art Deco building, it operates as a major safety-net provider, offering care to a diverse, underserved population.
Thank you to Medical Center Music Program Founder and Director, Toby Horn, for inviting our protégés!
