NEWS
History Made as Sole Bachelor of Music Graduate in Cello Performance
May.11.2025
Jaxon Cox emerged as the singular graduate in Cello Performance from the Bachelor of Music program this year, a distinction that highlights both his exceptional dedication and the personalized excellence of his training. Completing the rigorous degree as the program’s only cello major, Jaxon demonstrated extraordinary commitment to artistry and scholarship, earning high praise from faculty for his technical command, interpretive depth, and leadership in ensemble settings.
Cox’s achievement underscores a rare opportunity for intensive mentorship and solo development; with the full focus of faculty and resources directed to his progress, he cultivated a compelling recital repertoire and a refined pedagogical approach. As he prepares to advance to the University of Denver for his M.M. in Music Performance with a focus on cello, Cox plans to pursue doctoral study and an academic career, while continuing to perform as a soloist and chamber musician and to mentor the next generation of cellists.
Jaxon Cox Announces Move to Denver to Pursue Master’s Degree in Music Performance
March.15.2025
Jaxon Cox will relocate to Denver this summer to begin the M.M. in Music Performance at the University of Denver, advancing his study of the cello under distinguished faculty. Building on his undergraduate achievements, he looks forward to intensive performance training, expanded chamber music opportunities, and deeper engagement with Denver’s vibrant classical music scene.
While in Denver, Jaxon plans to continue performing as a soloist and collaborator, participate in community outreach and teaching, and prepare for doctoral study. He expresses gratitude to his mentors and Laramie supporters for their guidance and looks forward to representing his hometown on the next stage of his musical and academic journey.
Brazil Tour with String Quartet, Performances at Centro Cultural and Concert Halls in Brasília and Goiânia
June.2.2024
Cellist Jaxon Cox is headed to Brazil with his string quartet for a grand final performance at Centro Cultural and concerts in Brasília and Goiânia. Between shows he’ll participate in all-day rehearsals with Brazilian counterparts, share repertoire that mixes classical favorites with contemporary Brazilian pieces, and enjoy connecting with musicians and audiences abroad while representing his Laramie roots.
UW Symphony Orchestra Tours Mediterranean Coast
April.25.2024
The University of Wyoming Symphony Orchestra recently concluded its international tour throughout the Mediterranean coast, a transformative experience for many students and community members.
Starting March 10, the orchestra embarked on a musical journey in France and Spain, captivating audiences through a variety of performances.
Under the leadership of Michael Griffith, a UW music professor and director of orchestral activities, the UW Symphony Orchestra showcased its mastery of music ranging from European classics to an American piece by Valerie Coleman that premiered in 2020.
In total, 70 people traveled with the orchestra to the Mediterranean coast.
In addition to its performances, the group explored significant sites, such as the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, France, which was where popes ruled in the 1300s. Other sites included Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain, an ancient Roman aqueduct, and the beach and ancient neighborhoods in Nice, France.
Jaxon Cox participates in the first-round of the MTNA music competition
November.11.2023
Jaxon Cox participated in the state-level music competition of Music Teachers National Association, entering the first-round via sponsorship of Dr. Beth Vanderborgh.
The MTNA National Competitions are the most successful and prestigious student competitions in the country. Each year, thousands of students compete for top prizes and national recognition. The purpose of the Music Teachers National Association competitions is to provide educational experiences for students and teachers. These competitions begin at the state level and are separated into divisions of Brass, Piano, String, Voice, Woodwind.
Jaxon entered the Wyoming state level string division and will move on to the Northwest region level which is a video submission to Regional MTNA judges. Congratulations Jaxon and good luck on your next round of competition!
2023 UW Cello Festival
May.6.2023
The UW Cello Festival Cello Choir is open to all participants. There will be two levels of music, one for intermediate players and one for advanced. Advanced players are encouraged to play all selections. Indicate your level on the registration page. Music will be sent to you for preparation before the festival. We are very grateful to Douglas Moore for providing many of his arrangements.
Jaxon Cox, IT Specialist
UW Student Takes Jacoby Competition Prize
March.6.2023
The concert is named after Dorothy Jacoby, a founding member of the UW Symphony Association and a longtime supporter of classical music in Laramie. Her sons, Peter and Michael Jacoby, made a generous contribution in honor of their late mother. That gift, along with contributions from many of Dorothy Jacoby’s friends, created the endowment for the prize that is awarded at the performance.
The Jacoby Competition featured the five finalists in concert with the UW Symphony Orchestra (UWSO), conducted by Department of Music Professor Michael Griffith, in the Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts concert hall.
“The Jacoby Competition never fails to be one of the UWSO’s most exciting events,” says Griffith, who is director of orchestral activities at UW.
Last fall, several UW music students performed their selected solo pieces in the audition round in front of a panel of distinguished musicians. The judges selected the top five musicians to perform in the competition’s concert.
Another set of judges selected the best two Jacoby performances of the evening. Runner-up honors went to cellist Jaxon Cox, a UW sophomore from Laramie. He performed Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto No. 1, mvt 1.
Jaxon Cox Receives Wagner Scholarship
September.1.2021
We are proud to share that Jaxon Cox has been awarded the Wagner Scholarship to pursue a bachelor's degree in Cello Performance at the University of Wyoming. This is a testament to Jaxon's talent and dedication as a cellist and musician. Congratulations, Jaxon!