I recently spent 2 days in residence at beautiful Reinhardt University in Georgia, where Magnolia trees were blooming and tulips were happily opening (unlike at home here in Rochester, NY!).
It was a great trip, and I had the opportunity to work with the Wind Ensemble, composition students, and be part of a panel discussion on music careers.
The Wind Ensemble, directed by Daniel Kirk, performed “Into the Silent Land” on a concert that was part of the Reinhardt Contemporary Arts Festival. My plane landed just in time to speak with the ensemble and provide some feedback during their rehearsal the day prior to the concert. I also had the chance to interact with students in the ensemble, sharing meals with them and hearing about their backgrounds and aspirations.
The second day, I gave a presentation on my music, talking about my background and discussing two works: Into the Silent Land, and Alcott Songs. I also had the chance to present a masterclass with 4 composition students, which was wonderful. The students each spoke about a piece of theirs, we listened to it, discussed it, and I provided some comments (which I hope were helpful…!) The pieces were all very creative and it was a pleasure to work with these young composers.
Before the concert that evening, I was part of a panel discussion on music careers. Each panelist talked about their unique career and then answered student questions, providing some insight and advice regarding pursuing a career in music in the 21st century.
The final event was the Wind Ensemble concert, a well-attended, creatively programmed concert that included my work “Into the Silent Land” along with a wealth of other contemporary composers. The concert featured works with electronics, as well as lighting design, which made for a very entertaining event.
Reinhardt faculty member Cody Brookshire led the planning of the Contemporary Arts Festival and was instrumental in all of my events as well. Thanks to Cody and Daniel Kirk for a wonderful visit to Reinhardt University! I hope to return soon!