Matthew Yee, a senior at Valparaiso University, recently accepted a position with the U.S. Coast Guard Band.
After submitting a recorded audition, Yee was chosen as one of two finalists to perform with the band. Following the performance, he was offered the position. Yee will enlist in the service before joining the band.
Yee was previously offered a position with the U.S. Air Force Regional Band.
Yee plans to graduate from Valparaiso University in 2024 with degrees in civil engineering and music. During his time at the university, he has been a member of the school’s concert band, orchestra and jazz band.
“I had to choose what to do after Valpo: euphonium, trombone or engineering,” Yee said in a press release. “Music was an easy choice. But when I decided on euphonium, I knew it was time to start looking at these military band auditions.”
The U.S. Coast Guard Band was organized in 1925 by Lt. Charles Benter, leader of the United States Navy Band; Walter Damrosch, conductor of the New York Philharmonic; and John Philip Sousa, former director of the United States Marine Band. The 55-member band performs for official government functions, such as inaugural celebrations for presidents. They also give concerts at venues around the world.
