Percussionist Brandon Berlanga (‘25E) won a Special Opportunity Grant to take his trio, Blacktop Percussion, to the Oh My Ears Festival in Phoenix, AZ for a performance. The experience was the trio’s first performance outside of Eastman, allowed Berlanga to premiere a new work, and proved to be a valuable learning experience for their development as musicians and arts administrators. “After performing, I’ve gained a new sense of confidence and insight that I believe is critical to my career as a percussionist, chamber musician, and composer. I’m grateful for the support of the Institute for Music Leadership for making this all happen!”