Strings
Venezuelan Andres Orco is a DMA guitar student in our Thompson Jazz Studies Program with a special interest in advanced rhythm and meter in jazz; as such, he鈥檚 also pursuing a Certificate in Music Theory. 鈥淭hrough the certificate program, I received a multidisciplinary education that I think has made me a more well-rounded musician and educator.鈥
On Feb. 26, undergraduate pianist Jude Dow-Hygelund and graduate soprano Dawna Rae Warren were awarded first prizes in the College of Music鈥檚 annual Honors Competition. Congratulations to all participating student competitors and collaborative pianists!
Friends,My heart is heavy. Associate Professor of Violin Charles (Chas) Wetherbee passed away on Jan. 9, 2023, after a courageous fight against cancer. A beloved member of our faculty since 2012, he will be sorely missed by all
鈥淗aving a 鈥榟ome鈥 audience of loyal Tak谩cs fans is a huge honor 鈥 and makes the concert experience more than just about the music itself. It鈥檚 about the relationships formed through the shared love of music.鈥
In the final Dean鈥檚 Downbeat of the year, Dean John Davis announces Allan McMurray鈥檚 2023 University Medal; describes how the important, prescient work of the Sphinx Organization underscores his vision for the College of Music ... and more.
鈥淭his wonderful concert series allows the faculty to show our individuality in style and interests, and I鈥檓 excited to share my perspective in my first Faculty Tuesdays recital this week!鈥 says new Assistant Professor of Violin Alex Gonzalez.
Congratulations to the winners of the 2022-23 Bruce Ekstrand Memorial Graduate Student Performance Competition!
Violist Avedis Escandon shares what diversity means to him and how he strives to encourage others to become DEI advocates as well. 鈥淛ust like with music, major changes don鈥檛 happen overnight鈥攃hange requires small bits of effort over time, so we cannot discount the impact of a meaningful dialogue.鈥
A new member of the College of Music faculty shares his approach to preparing students to become universal musicians, and fostering an environment of diversity and inclusivity. 鈥淚t's not about hyper-specialization, but about flexibility, creativity and keeping an open mind,鈥 he says.
On May 5, we look forward to welcoming back Judith Glyde, formerly professor of cello and chamber music at the College of Music and chair of our string faculty. Since retiring in 2014 to live in New York City, the professor emerita she has been active with the college鈥檚 alumni community there, offering tremendous support to Forever Buffs who are now living and working in the city.