Christopher Scanlon, D.M.A., Assistant Professor of Trumpet at the University of Florida College of the Arts, recently returned from an impactful guest artist residency at the Festival Internacional de Música Alfredo de Saint Malo in Panama City, Panama, from July 20–26. His participation was made possible by a Global Fellows award from the UF International Center (UFIC).
During his residency, Dr. Scanlon significantly contributed to the festival, performing as a featured soloist with Panama’s prestigious National Youth Concert Band. He provided intensive educational experiences for young musicians through trumpet masterclasses, private lessons, orchestra sectionals, and chamber ensemble coaching. Dr. Scanlon also conducted a brass chamber concert, demonstrating UF’s commitment to cultural exchange and international collaboration.
"This experience was deeply meaningful, both artistically and personally," Dr. Scanlon said. "I’m grateful to the Global Fellows Program for their generous support in making these international opportunities possible."
The UFIC Global Fellows Program, managed by UFIC’s Office for Global Research Engagement (OGRE), provides seed grants of $5,000 to UF faculty, enabling them to initiate international research and collaborative projects. The program helps faculty travel abroad to conduct research, collaborate with international scholars, and access global resources.
Building on the success of this trip, Dr. Scanlon has already begun planning future collaborations with notable international institutions, including Uruguay’s National Symphony Orchestra of SODRE and the South Florida Youth Symphony. He is also awaiting acceptance for a performance opportunity in Mexico next month and plans a spring trip to Latvia and Lithuania to teach and perform with his trumpet ensemble.
Dr. Scanlon’s activities exemplify UF’s dedication to expanding its global impact, fostering international partnerships, and promoting excellence within the College of the Arts. His accomplishments reflect the broader mission of UFIC to advance international engagement through transformative experiences for faculty and students.