YSU student Jacob Norton earns Honorable Mention in International Trombone Association competition

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Youngstown State University student Jacob Norton has earned an Honorable Mention in the International Trombone Association’s Alto Trombone Competition, placing him among some of the most accomplished young trombonists in the world.

Norton, a third‑year trombone performance major in the Dana School of Music, was part of an international division with musicians age 25 and under. The virtual competition drew applicants ranging from undergraduate students to professional orchestral players and graduate‑level musicians.

“It’s really cool to be in that kind of company,” Norton said. “You have people from places like Juilliard and Colburn applying. It definitely motivates me to keep putting YSU on the map.”

Norton said his success is rooted in the opportunities and guidance he’s received at YSU. He chose the Dana School of Music after connecting with Andrew Mitchell, associate professor, who would later become one of his primary mentors.

“I could tell he cared about having me here,” Norton said. “He called almost every other day when I was deciding where to go. I didn’t get that level of care anywhere else.”

Mitchell, along with Michael Butler, director of bands, and Da-Eun Choi, collaborative pianist, played critical roles in preparing Norton’s competition submission. Norton and Choi rehearsed together for more than a month prior to recording.

“Dr. Choi is perfect in her playing,” he said. “When you collaborate with a pianist, it can be great or really difficult. With her, I never have to worry. She always has her part right.”

Butler assisted Norton through the entire recording process and continues to provide professional experiences outside the classroom. Norton said Mitchell and Butler frequently connect him with performance opportunities that strengthen both his resume and musical confidence.

“They’ve lived the orchestral life,” Norton said. “This field is really competitive, and their support, whether it’s a phone call, a gig or just checking in, means everything. I wouldn’t get that anywhere else.”

Norton has performed in YSU’s wind ensemble, big band and trombone studio, and has already played with the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra. He said those experiences help fuel his ambition.

“It’s almost like a drug,” Norton said. “You play with a professional group, and afterward you just want more. Being close to Cleveland and Pittsburgh also means I can hear incredible orchestras regularly. It all pushes me forward.”

Norton said receiving Honorable Mention has strengthened his career focus and inspired him to continue competing nationally and internationally. He plans to re‑enter the ITA competition next year and is applying for additional festivals and opportunities that will help him advance in the orchestral field.

“It definitely makes me want to keep going,” he said. “It’s hard to find motivation in a field like this, but getting recognition like this helps a lot.”

Norton encouraged other YSU music students and prospective students to commit deeply to their craft.

“Be very intentional when you practice,” he said. “Dr. Mitchell always says, ‘Be a psychopath in the practice room.’ Focus on every single note. If you really care for the music and give it the attention it deserves, you can make things happen.”

Norton said he’s grateful for the faculty and community he has found at the Dana School of Music.

“It’s like another family here,” he said. “The professors and friends I’ve made really shape me, not just as a musician but as a person. I’m definitely in good hands at YSU.”