Wind duo captures prestigious national award
Texas A&M University-Kingsville School of Music is celebrating a major achievement by Dr. Ann Fronckowiak, associate professor of oboe, and Cristian Zavala, instructor of percussion, also known as Duo Precipice. The two were named winners of “The American Prize in Chamber Music Performance, 2025 – professional winds division.” The national award recognizes the most outstanding performances across the country.
“Professors Fronckowiak and Zavala are extraordinary musicians, dedicated teachers, and generous colleagues. Their first-place award from The American Prize is a powerful recognition of their artistry and commitment to excellence,” Dr. Scott Jones, interim dean, College of Arts and Sciences, said.
Duo Precipice brings together oboist, Fronckowiak, and percussionist, Zavala, blending the sounds of wind and percussion for a distinctive, unique performance. The dedicated educators “seek to guide audiences to the edge of expression by creating unique soundscapes and challenging aural familiarities,” the duo says on the official American Prize website.
“Throughout the recital, Duo Precipice demonstrated exceptional musicianship, technical mastery and commitment to exploring the expressive possibilities of their instruments. The duo’s collaboration has made a significant contribution to the existing body of repertoire for oboe and percussion, and their future collaborations and contributions to the field are eagerly anticipated,” Nora A. Lewis, associate dean of the faculty and associate professorMusic at Lawrence University, said.
Together, Fronckowiak and Zavala have given concerts across Texas, Florida and Arizona, creating performances that give audiences meaningful and unique listening experiences. The pair has also premiered music by composers Dr. Chad Robinson, professor of Music Theory at TAMUK, and Dr. Brian Shelton. The pair worked closely with the music composers to make the works best suited for both the oboe and percussion.
“At the same time, it reflects something larger than any one ensemble. It highlights the vibrant culture of musicianship, collaboration and achievement that defines our School of Music. When faculty are performing at this level nationally, it sends a clear message about the standards we uphold and the environment we cultivate here at TAMUK,” Jones said.