A Chat with Opera Singer Richard Troxell and Giving Back to His Community
By Alisha Yocum
Richard Troxell grew up in Thurmont before attending the Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia, where he graduated and went on to build a career as a tenor opera singer performing around the world.
Troxell, who had recently finished his role as Dr. Caius in Falstaff in Philadelphia, was back in Thurmont for a rehearsal at Apples Church, where he is scheduled to perform a concert on June 6 as part of the church’s 200th anniversary celebration.
Troxell could not help but reflect on where his musical journey first began—right at the front of the church. At just four years old, he sang “Away in a Manger” during a Christmas program.
“This church gave me the recipe to become a classical singer,” Troxell said.
From singing in the choir alongside his uncles and sisters to the influence of Margaret Barnwell, who traveled from Washington, D.C., to work with the choir, Troxell credits many people for giving him the “recipe to become a classical singer.” However, he said perhaps his greatest influence was his mother, Patricia Troxell.
“My mother was an amazing singer,” he said.
Troxell noted that during the church’s centennial celebration in 1926, it is believed nearly 2,000 community members attended a festival in celebration. Given the important role music has played throughout the church’s history, he felt the best way to celebrate the bicentennial was with an open-air community concert to be held on the church lawn.
“The concert is going to run the gamut,” Troxell said.
The concert will feature a variety of music styles, including opera, Broadway, country, popular music, spirituals and hymns, as well as performances by the Apples Church Choir. Musicians from around the world, including Australia, are expected to participate.
The community is encouraged to bring lawn chairs, snacks, and drinks, and to enjoy an evening of music beginning at 6:30 p.m., following the church’s all-day festival.
After more than 30 years as a professional singer, Troxell said he especially enjoys opportunities to perform for his hometown community.
Earlier this year, he returned to Thurmont to sing the National Anthem at a Catoctin High School girls basketball game. He is also scheduled to perform at the upcoming Thurmont High School Alumni event.
“I really enjoy giving back,” he said.
For more information about the concert, see the advertisement on page 22.
