With over 80,000 subscribers and 11 million views, YouTube sensation Christopher Bill defies music norms, using his trombone with a modern twist to perform popular music.
On Tuesday, Bill will be showing off his talent to the public at Park Forest Middle School at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium.
After going viral in 2014 with over two million views, Bill’s video of Pharrell William’s song “Happy” showed the world his ability to perform popular songs in a simultaneously classical and innovative way. Bill continues to defy musical expectations and he uploads a new video every Saturday.
“Chris uses innovative technical equipment, apps, and looping to create his own musical arrangements,” Park Forest Middle School Band Director Ronica Brownson said. “This is all very new and cutting edge, and he has developed it into his own brand of music-making that has become extremely popular. He really thinks outside the box.”
Using his combination of popular music and classical style, Bill sends the message that musical artists don’t have to stick to the norm; they can play the music they enjoy in their own creative way.
Having recently graduated from SUNY-Purchase Conservatory of Music, Bill still considers himself in learning mode. Often being closer in age to the students than their teachers, Bill sees this as giving him the ability to teach from a peer’s standpoint and give students a different perspective on music.
Although most of his arrangements are modern pop songs, Bill performs music from all genres so there is something for everyone to enjoy. Songs range from “America the Beautiful” to a mash-up of John Mayer and Wiz Khalifa to Jimmy Hendrix’s “Purple Haze.”
Bill’s State College performance will open up with The Penn State Trombone Choir playing an original composition of Bill’s. Joining Bill for his performances will be State College Area High School Band Director Paul Leskowicz, State College Elementary Band Director Robert LaBarca and Penn State trombone graduate Weslsey Thompson.
Tickets will be available at the door for $5 and $3 for those under 18. The proceeds will benefit the PFMS Instrument Fund.
