Raise your hand if you know what a “euphonium” is. Anyone? Anyone? Well, former Auburn student Marie Robertson is out to fix that.

Originally developed in the 1840’s, the euphonium, a deep brass instrument similar in size to a tuba, is not a commonly known instrument today, which is precisely why Robertson wants to share her music.

Currently a masters student in classical euphonium performance at the University of Colorado at Boulder, Robertson is in town to show off her euphonium skills and hopefully peak the curiosities of a few Auburn bar-goers.

“Classical music is an art that seems to be going steadily downhill in interest for young people and I want to expose the public to more of it,” Robertson said, who has also noted that the emphasis on the past is what is really holding classical music back from reaching the masses these days.

Another problem, Robertson notes, is that most classical performances take place in stuffy environments, with little movement or interaction, which is why she chose the unlikely locale of The Independent for her show.

Set against an electronic accompaniment, Robertson will be performing a euphonium piece in three movements called ‘Pearls’ by a young Hungarian composer and tuba enthusiast, Roland Szentpali. She will also then be performing some original works, all of which, Robertson promises, will be an exciting, energetic performance.

Marie Robertson will be performing at The Independent on Thursday, July 29th. For more info about the euphonium and to hear some of her recorded works visit myspace.com/playmarierobertson.