EURHYTHMICS WORKSHOP FOR GENERAL MUSIC & CHORAL CLASSROOMS SLATED FOR JAN. 10

Ashland University Department of Music and the American Eurhythmics Society (AES) will present a Eurhythmics Workshop for General Music and Choral Classrooms on Saturday, January 10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ashland University's Redwood Hall.  

The workshop will feature Brian Sweigart, chair of the Eurhythmics Department at the Cleveland Institute of Music, along with presentations by Jayne Wenner, The Ohio State University; Dr. Marla Butke and Rowland Blackley from Ashland University. 

Mr. Sweigart has taught Eurhythmics at many schools in Cleveland including the Cleveland Music School Settlement, Early Childhood Enrichment Center at Shaker Family Center, The Montessori School at Holy Rosary and Horizon Montessori.  His teaching has taken him to Maine, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Georgia and Kentucky where he has taught Eurhythmics to all ages. 

In addition to teaching, he performs as a percussionist in groups such as the Cleveland Orchestra, the Ohio Light Opera Orchestra and the Percussion Plus Project. He  received his master's degree in Percussion Performance from Youngstown State University and earned his bachelor's degree from the Cleveland Institute of Music in Dalcroze Eurhythmics and Percussion. Mr. Sweigart also attended Interlochen Arts Academy.


Workshop participants can register now with Dr. Marla Butke at mbutke@ashland.edu with payment due at the workshop. The fee for the workshop includes lunch and is $75 or only $65 for AES members. For information about joining AES, visit www.americaneurhythmics.org.

AU Instrumental Ensembles Offer a Variety of Free Concerts

The Department of Music at Ashland University is presenting four very different instrumental concerts the week after Thanksgiving which are all free and open to the public.  From two recitals each featuring multiple student chamber ensembles to the annual TubaChristmas and concluding with the Winter Festival Band Concert, music fans can enjoy live music performances all week.

Beginning on Tuesday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m. in the Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall, the first recital of the student chamber ensembles will present a clarinet trio under the direction of Dr. Thomas Reed, as well as brass, string and trumpet ensembles instructed by Michael Metcalf, Jane Reed and Gary Davis, respectively.   On Wednesday, December 3, the featured ensembles will include a saxophone quartet directed by Dr. Reed along with a Jazz combo and the percussion ensemble led by Jeff Neitzke.

With two concerts on Saturday, December 6, the day begins with the annual TubaChristmas at 11 a.m. in Hugo Young Theatre. Patrons are advised that the times for this year's event are one hour earlier than in previous years. The concert is free and open to the public and area tuba, euphonium and baritone players are invited to perform. Musician registration will begin at 9 a.m. followed by a rehearsal at 9:20 a.m.  The registration fee for participating musicians is $10 and includes a 2014 TubaChristmas button.  The TubaChristmas carol book is also available for $10.00. Musicians are asked to bring their own folding stand.

TubaChristmas is an idea conceived by Harvey Phillips, Professor of Tuba at Indiana University. Mr. Phillips wanted to demonstrate to the public what a beautiful sound a mass ensemble of tubas and euphoniums could make and to provide an opportunity for fellow low brass players to celebrate the season with the community. TubaChristmas is dedicated to the memory of Mr. William J. Bell.  It’s a fun, holiday tradition the whole family can enjoy.

On Saturday evening beginning at 7:30 p.m. in Hugo Young Theatre, the Winter Festival Band Concert will present the Ashland University Wind Ensemble directed by Ken Will, Ashland University Director of Bands, and the Ashland Area Community Concert Band (AACCB) under the direction of Leonard Salvo.

The 40-piece Ashland University Wind Ensemble is comprised of the outstanding wind and percussion players at the University and from the community.  The ensemble begins Saturday's concert with Ralph Vaughan Williams' "Flourish for Wind Band" followed by Percy Aldrige Grainger's "Irish Tune from County Derry" which is based on the Irish melody "Londonderry Air." The Wind Ensemble closes their portion of the program with Frank Ticheli's two movement piece "Cajun Folk Songs" featuring solo alto saxophone.

After a brief intermission, the 65-member Ashland Area Community Concert Band takes the stage. Established in 1993, the ensemble is designed for both university students and members of the Ashland community to continue their musical study and creative activity. The Community Band's program begins with the stirring opening fanfare, silver screen opulence and lush lyricism of Alfred Reed's "Alleluia!! Laudamus Te" followed by John Wasson's "Sea Song Fantasy" which is a medley of sea songs and chanteys, and "The Gallant 7th", a march by John Philip Sousa composed and dedicated to the 7th Regiment, 107th Infantry, of the New York National Guard. They conclude the program with two Christmas medley's including John Wasson's "In the Christmas Mood" and Warren Barker's "It's Christmas."

Winter Festival Jazz Concert Presents Holiday and Big Band Favorites

The award-winning Ashland University Jazz Orchestra (AUJO) will be hosting a free Winter Festival concert in Hugo Young Theatre on Monday, Nov. 24, at 7:30 p.m. Directed by Dr. Scott Garlock, professor of music, the concert will feature three sets of music including pre-concert music performed by Dr. Garlock's student jazz combo, a set of Christmas music for big band performed by AUJO, and closing with the Jazz Orchestra performing big band music in several styles.

The Jazz Orchestra’s first set will include holiday favorites such as “The First Noel,” “Coventry Carol," "Baby It's Cold Outside,” and "Jingle Bells." AUJO’s final portion  of the concert features Al Horney's "Hipper By the Dozen," Mark Taylor's arrangement of Jorge Ben's "Mas Que Nada," Wyche and Watts' "Alright, Okay, You Win," followed by Myles Collins' arrangements of "Belly Roll" and "Avenue C."

The student jazz combo providing pre-concert music is comprised of Joel Paige, Frank Stanek, Steve Matis and Deric Dove.

Members of the AUJO include saxophonists Michael Byndas, Jason Wolf, Derek Rangel, Steve Matis, Jessie Barnhouse and Shayne Smith; while the brass section includes guest Dave Banks, Hannah Phillips, Alex Sandwisch, Nick Psota and Tyler McFarland on trumpet, and Jaylynn Buchmelter, Frank Stanek, Eileen Navratil and Chadwick Applegate on trombone. The rhythm section is comprised of Dan Shade on drums, Ben Bushong on bass and D. R. Haught on guitar.

Flutist to Present Senior Recital

The Department of Music at Ashland University presents a senior recital featuring flutist Devyn Renninger on Saturday, November 8 at 3 p.m. in the Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall.  The recital is free and open to the public.

Miss Renninger is a music education major from Norton, Ohio and studies privately with Jane Berkner.  For her recital, she will be joined by pianist Sue Gregg and fellow flutist D. R. Haught.  The concert program will include Johann Sebastian Bach's Sonata IV along with Christoph Willibald Gluck's Dance of the Blessed Spirit, Andante and Rondo by Franz Doppler and Serenade by Howard Hanson.

SENIOR RECITAL FEATURES TWO MALE VOCALISTS

The Department of Music at Ashland University presents a senior vocal recital featuring two male singers on Sunday, October 26 at 4 p.m. in the Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall in the Center for the Arts (formerly known as the Arts & Humanities Building). The recital is free and open to the public. 

Tenor Caleb Stout and baritone Andrew Shaffer will be assisted by Deb Logan for this concert.  Both singers are vocal music education majors and study voice privately with Denise Milner Howell. Caleb is a graduate of North Adams High School and is from Winchester, Ohio.  Andrew is a graduate of Wooster High School in the neighboring city of Wooster, Ohio.

The recital program will include solo pieces performed by each vocalist as well as duets. The concert will begin with the duo singing classical songs such as "Santa Lucia," "O sole mio," and "Funiculi, Funicula."  Each vocalist will then perform solo selections with Caleb singing pieces from Joseph Haydn, Robert Franz, Ralph Vaughan Williams, Richard Hundley and Rick Ian Gordon; and Andrew performing selections from W. A. Mozart, Jules Massenet, Camille Saint-Saens, Poldowski, Charles Ives, Robert Saari and Roger Quilter.  The concert will conclude with a duet of Robert Lopez's "You and Me" from the musical The Book of Mormon.

AUJO Presents Concert with College of Wooster Jazz Ensemble

Led by Dr. Scott Garlock, Professor of Music, the award-winning Ashland University Jazz Orchestra (AUJO) will present a joint concert with the College of Wooster Jazz Ensemble on Tuesday, October 14 in the Hawkins-Conard Student Center’s Eagles Nest at 7:30 p.m. Audience members are welcome to grab a snack, enjoy a beverage and relax to the live music at this free public concert. Both ensembles are comprised of 18 musicians each including sections of saxophones, trumpets, trombones, rhythm and vocalists.    

The AU Jazz Orchestra's portion of the program will include pieces selected from Quincy Jones' "Belly Roll," "Back Bone" by Thad Jones, "Cellar Dwellar" by John Fedchock, "The Count Is In" by Jim Martin, Mark Taylor's arrangement of "Chega de Saudade," "I've Found a New Baby" arranged by Gordon Goodwin, "Nostalgia in Times Square" arranged by Ronnie Cuber, Mike Tomaro's "Pump It Up," and "Superior Attitude" by Michael Pagán.    

The Wooster Jazz Ensemble will perform pieces selected from Tom Reed's translation of B. B. King's "Caught a Touch of Your Love," Jim Martin's arrangement of "Dear Old Stockholm," "Ev'ry Day I Got the Blues" arranged by Frank Foster, "Mambo de Memo" by Matt Harris, and Sammy Nestico's arrangement of "Sweet Georgia Brown" along with others.  

Members of the AUJO include saxophonists Michael Byndas, Jason Wolf, Derek Rangel, Steve Matis, Jessie Barnhouse and Shayne Smith; while the brass section includes guest Dave Banks, Hannah Phillips, Alex Sandwisch, Nick Psota and Tyler McFarland on trumpet, and Jaylynn Buchmelter, Frank Stanek, Eileen Navratil and Chadwick Applegate on trombone. The rhythm section is comprised of Dan Shade on drums, Ben Bushong on bass and D. R. Haught on guitar.  

The Wooster Jazz Ensemble's saxophone section includes Ransom Patterson, Nick Penfound, Jack Eyre, Richie Blough, Salena Stewart and Josh Foerst.  In the brass section, Jake Boca, Nathan Gimble, Brad Zillig and Andy Bartelheim play trumpet; while trombones include Thea Kwan, Chris Blaikie, Peter Gooch and Matthew Germaine.  On rhythm, Sam Corman Penzel plays drums, Acadia Braxton-Barto is on bass, and Alex Chabraja on piano.

Fall Choral Concert Features Three Vocal Ensembles

Ashland University’s Fall Choral Concert slated for Sunday, October 12 at 4 p.m. in the Jack and Deb Miller Chapel features three University vocal ensembles including the Ashland University Choir, Ashland University Women’s Chorus and Ashland Area Chorus.  The performance is free and open to the public.

Dr. Rowland Blackley, Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities will conduct the Ashland University Choir performing Mozart's "Regina coeli" with the Ashland Chamber Orchestra.  In addition, they will sing three love songs and three sacred motets from composers including Samuel Barber, Johann Pachelbel, Z. Randall Stroope and Johannes Brahms.  A Christian song from Kenya will also be featured.   

The Ashland University Women's Chorus, directed by Dr. Marla Butke, Associate Professor and Coordinator of Music Education, will perform a variety of pieces including "Hotaru Koi," a Japanese piece by Ro Ogura, Zebulon Highben's "Shiru L'Adonai" with Hebrew text from Exodus 15:19-21 and accompaniment by a percussion ensemble, Laura Farnell's "In You I Found," and Giovanni Battista Gajani's "Laudate Pueri" based on Psalm 113. 

Elizabeth Slade will conduct the Ashland Area Chorus beginning  with "This Marriage" by Eric Whitacre followed by "Il est bel et bon" ["He is handsome and good"] by Pierre Passereau, "O Death, Rock Me Asleep" attributed to Anne Boleyn, "Mother, I Will Have a Husband" by Thomas Vautor and concluding with Leonard Bernstein's "Make Our Garden Grow."

Save the Date: Madrigal Tickets Go on Sale Monday, Sep. 22

Tickets for the 39th Annual Madrigal Feaste go on sale to the public on Monday, Sept. 22, at 12 p.m. 

Patrons are reminded that this is a very popular event and the box office will be incredibly busy. For immediate service, the box office recommends that patrons come to the box office window located in the lobby of Hugo Young Theatre at the corner of College Avenue and Grant Street or order online at www.ashland.edu/tickets  (additional fees apply for online orders). Patrons can also call the box office at 419.289.5125, but phone lines are expected to be busy. Discounted tickets can only be purchased directly through the box office and not online.

Ashland University Department of Music produces the annual Madrigal Feaste, which is slated for Wednesday through Sunday, Nov. 19 – Nov. 23. All performances begin at 6:30 p.m. in Redwood Hall on the AU campus.

Directed by Dr. Rowland Blackley, director of choral activities, the Madrigal Feaste is a dinner theater based in 16th-century England with constant entertainment provided throughout the evening. The Ashland University Chamber Singers perform ceremonial music, Christmas carols and madrigals while the Madrigal Players present a new comedic play along with improvisational theatrics.

The rest of the cast for the evening is comprised of fanfare trumpeters, the Court Jester and Butler. Performer costumes are designed as authentic reproductions of period apparel and the four-course meal culminates in flaming bread pudding. 

The 2014 Madrigal Feaste Chamber Singers feature Andrew Shaffer as the King and Emily Springer as the Queen along with their court including Julie Bontempo, Abbie Brady, Deric Dove, D.R. Haught, Grace Keller, Danny Lawson, Allie Newhouse, Rachel Parfitt, Derek Rangel, Jake Riley, Cory Turpin and Hannah Wise. Zach Manthey will lead the Madrigal Players as the Jester.

Tickets for the event are $26 for adults; $15 for children under 12; and $23 for groups of 10 or more. A special $11 ticket is available to Ashland University students for the Wednesday performance only. A vegetarian option is available upon request at the time of ticket purchase. Due to preparation of meals, tickets are not available at the door.

AU Marching Eagles at Home Opener

Check out photos of the AU Marching Eagles at the home opening football game. Even Tuffy joined the band!

Music Scholarship Audition Postcard Showcases Department's Students & Alumni

The Department of Music will soon be mailing their newest scholarship audition postcard to prospective majors, minors and participants.  The photo collage featured on the postcard shows the variety of programs and ensembles offered throughout the department.  From the AU Eagle Marching Band to the annual Madrigal Feaste and work in the theory classroom -- AU Music has something for everyone. 

Who do you recognize in this collage and who do you know that will make a great addition to a future postcard?  Auditions begin in January and more information is available online at www.ashland.edu/music.

ASHLAND AREA CHORUS & COMMUNITY CONCERT BAND ANNOUNCE FALL SCHEDULES

Two community music ensembles at Ashland University [Ashland Area Chorus (AAC) and Ashland Area Community Concert Band (AACCB)] announce their fall schedules including rehearsals, concerts and membership requirements.  Beginning Monday, August 18, Ashland Area Chorus rehearsals are held on Monday evenings from 7-8:45 p.m. in Room 242 of the Center for the Arts. Initially meeting on Tuesday, September 2, the Community Band rehearses on Tuesday evenings from 7:30-9 p.m. in the Center for the Arts' Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall.
 
Entering its seventeenth season, the Ashland Area Chorus is a mixed choir of about 50 singers from Ashland and surrounding counties.  The fall semester’s repertoire will include pieces by Bernstein and Whitacre, several sixteenth-century madrigals, and arrangements of traditional carols.  The chorus will participate in the Ashland University Fall Concert, October 12, and the annual Festival of Lights on December 7. Though no formal audition is required for membership, AAC members must be pitch accurate (sing 'on key') and be able to learn and perform their parts successfully. Previous choral experience is helpful. 
 
The Ashland Area Community Concert Band begins its twenty-second season and is for those that loved playing in band in high school or college and want the opportunity to play again. Performances for the ensemble this fall include a performance at the University with the Ashland University Concert Band on Saturday, December 6. Requirements for membership are the ability to play a wind or percussion instrument (no need to be a virtuoso); an interest in playing for enjoyment; desire to play a wide variety of music for the public; an interest in meeting new people who share a common interest and availability for rehearsals on Tuesday evenings. 

Membership in AAC and AACCB is open to all adults. Students still in high school may also participate with the permission of the ensemble's director.  A nominal membership fee of $25 is requested and payable by the fourth week of rehearsals to continue participation in either ensemble for the semester. For further information, contact the Chorus’ director Libby Slade at eslade@ashland.edu or (419) 685-5460; or Community Band director Leonard Salvo at 419-289-5132 or lsalvo@ashland.edu.

New Music Scholarship and Audition Brochure Released

Hot off the press...Check out the new Music Scholarships and Auditions brochure featuring music education major Shayne Smith on the cover.

2014 Summer Music Ed. Mini-Conference

Ashland University Department of Music is offering a summer graduate mini-conference for general music teachers on July 21 to 25 in Room 242 of the Center for the Arts.  The 5-day conference offers an exciting and unique format including daily eurhythmics and a variety of 3-hour workshops.

Organized by Dr. Marla Butke, coordinator of music education, other clinicians for the conference include Rachael Fleischaker, Gail Kopetz, Janelle Roshong and Megan Routh.  The clinicians will lead workshops focusing on Dalcroze, Kodaly and Orff methodologies; special learners; assessment and folk dancing.

Cost for the conference for three graduate credit hours is $825 or $300 for non-credit.  Registration can be made online through the Summer Graduate Workshop link at www.ashland.edu/founders/professional-development-services, or by contacting Dr. Butke at mbutke@ashland.edu or 614.581.4746.  Registration is due by July 1 while payment is due the first day of the workshop.

KEN WILL APPOINTED DIRECTOR OF BANDS

Ashland University Department of Music announces the appointment of Ken Will as the Director of Bands. In this position, Ken will direct the Ashland University Marching and Concert Bands.
 
With a Master’s of Music degree in Instrumental Conducting from Ohio University, he served as the graduate conductor for the The Ohio University Marching 110, Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, and University Concert Band in addition to assisting with undergraduate conducting classes.  While pursuing his Bachelor's Degree in Music Education at Ohio University, Ken was a member of the Marching 110 drumline. He also served as the Assistant Director of Bands at Lakewood High School where he taught the Lancer Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz Bands, and elementary music. 

Ken continues to work with high schools and colleges as an arranger for band/choir and as a brass/percussion clinician. He has been published in the Teaching Music Through Performance series and holds memberships in National Association for Music Education, College Band Directors National Association, the National Band Association and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, and honorary memberships in Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma.

CROWD GATHERS FOR MR SALVO'S FINAL AU CONCERT

Ashland University Director of Bands and Professor of Music Leonard Salvo received a warm and well-deserved send-off during the Variable Winds Band Concert in Hugo Young Theatre on Sunday, May 4.  Many alumni, friends from out-of-state, family and community members presented Mr. Salvo with a standing ovation, well wishes and thank you's as he begins his retirement.  These photos of the concert from a musician's perspective are compliments of graduating music education major Stephen Morsher.

OUTSTANDING MUSIC STUDENTS HONORED

Ashland University Department of Music recognized its outstanding students for 2013-2014 including: 

Honors Recipients: 

(l-r) Andy Bartelhiem, Morgan Mirtes, Caleb Stout, Grace Keller, Andrew Shaffer, Jacob Poiner, Eddie Carney, Katie Mounts, Katie Metz. Not Pictured: Alex VanScoy, Steve Morsher, Erin Lingenfelter, Paige Arthur

Spring Honors Recital Performers    

 

(front l-r) Caleb Stout, Andrew Shaffer, Deric Dove(back l-r) Emily Minns, Jacob Poiner, Katie Metz, Jaylynn Buchmelter, Katie Mounts, Rachel Crow, Kelsey Bowens, Samantha Diemer

SALVO CELEBRATED AT FINAL UNIVERSITY BAND CONCERT AFTER 26 YEARS ON THE ASHLAND PODIUM

Ashland University Department of Music concludes an eventful 2013-2014 academic year and the 26-year tenure of Professor Leonard Salvo as Director of Bands on Sunday, May 4, 4:00 p.m. in Hugo Young Theatre with the annual Variable Winds Band Concert. Under the direction of Salvo, the Ashland University Concert Band and Ashland Area Community Concert Band will perform a program including pieces of celebration and song along with an opportunity to recognize senior Concert Band members for their dedication and contribution to the AU Band program. Admission to the concert is complimentary, open to the public and is a wonderful opportunity to congratulate Mr. Salvo on his retirement. 

The concert begins with the Ashland Area Community Concert Band performing John Williams' Midway March which was composed for the classic World War II motion picture Midway, followed by James Curnow's Freedom Road which is a set of variations based on the spiritual "Follow the Drinkin' Gourd." The third piece, Shenandoah, is described by composer Frank Ticheli as the "mood ranges from quiet reflection, through growing optimism, to profound exaltation." The Community Band concludes its portion of the concert with Songs of Earth, Water, Fire and Sky by Robert W. Smith who drew upon authentic Native American dances and chants as inspiration. 

After a brief intermission, the Ashland University Concert Band begins their portion of the concert with James Curnow's Fanfare and Flourishes for a Festive Occasion which is based on Marc-Atoine Charpentier's "Te Deum."  The concert continues with Gustav Holst's Second Suite in F for Military Band performed in four movements.  The first movement is a march using several English folk tunes followed by the ballad Song Without Words for the second movement, and Song of the Blacksmith for the third.  The fourth and final movement, Fantasia on the Dargason, is based on an English country-dance tune with each section of the band exchanging the tune back and forth in variation.  The AU Concert Band will then perform Edwin Franko Goldman's The Chimes of Liberty, one of the great patriotic marches of our time; and conclude with Chorale and Shaker Dance including variations of the well known Shaker hymn, Simple Gifts.

Leonard Salvo has served as director of bands at Ashland University since 1988. During that time he grew the Eagle Marching Band from 17 members to 85, and founded the Ashland Area Community Concert Band. In addition to his work with the University concert band, wind ensemble, community concert band and marching band, he taught courses in conducting and music education.

Before coming to Ashland, he held positions at Indiana State University as assistant director of bands, and as assistant band director for the University of Toledo.  Mr. Salvo also spent 17 years in the public schools of Michigan. During that time, bands under his direction gained a national reputation through performances for the Mid-West International Band & Orchestra Clinic (Chicago), The Mid-East Conference on Instrumental Music (Pittsburgh), The Midwestern Conference on School Vocal and Instrumental Music (Ann Arbor) and the Eastern Michigan Contemporary Music Festival, Karel Husa composer/conductor (Ypsilanti, MI).  Ensembles under his direction have received critical acclaim from some of the nation’s most respected composers and conductors including Robert Page, Donald Erb, Anthony Iannaccone, Claude T. Smith, William D. Revelli, H. Robert Reynolds, John Whitwell, Harry Begian, Mark Kelly and Karel Husa.

With a Bachelor of Music Education from Eastern Michigan and a Master of Music degree from The University of Michigan, Mr. Salvo was also honored by The Music Department of Eastern Michigan University as an Outstanding Alumnus and was invited to serve as visiting lecturer and conductor. An active member several professional organizations he has twice been elected to serve as president of the Ohio Private College Instrumental Conductors Association. He takes an active role in campus life and has been recognized as the Outstanding Advisor for Student Organizations at Ashland University for his work with the Kappa Kappa Psi Honorary Band Fraternity and university bands.  At the 2013 Ashland University Homecoming, Mr. Salvo was presented the honorary title of Kentucky Colonel by the State of Kentucky by former band members Jay & Kim Hartz as representatives of the State of Kentucky.  Commissions for Kentucky Colonels are given by the Kentucky Governor and the Secretary of State to individuals in recognition of noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service to a community, state or the nation.

LARGE VARIETY OF INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLES PERFORM ON TUESDAY

The Department of Music at Ashland University is presenting two student ensembles recitals on Tuesday, April 29.  Both of the concerts are free and open to the public and are held in the Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall in the Center for the Arts (formerly known as the Arts & Humanities Building). 

The first recital begins at 7 p.m. and is comprised of the string ensemble instructed by Jane Reed, brass ensemble led by Michael Metcalf, a sax quartet taught by Thomas Reed, and Jeff Neitzke instructing the percussion ensemble.  

At 8:30 p.m., the recital features a flute duo instructed by Lindsey Goodman, a low brass ensemble taught by Scott Garlock, and jazz combos directed by Garlock and Neitzke.

VOCAL ENSEMBLES PERFORM A CHORAL CONCERT OF LATIN AMERICAN MUSIC

The Ashland University choral program collaborates with the College of Arts & Sciences Symposium Against Indifference to present a concert of a variety of Latin American musical selections for voices. Featuring the Ashland University Chamber Singers, Women’s Chorus, and the student a cappella group Surround Sound, the concert will be held on Sunday, April 27, 4:00 p.m. at the Jack and Deb Miller Chapel.  The performance is free and open to the public. 

Dr. Rowland Blackley, Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities, will conduct the Ashland University Chamber Singers singing in Spanish, Portuguese and Latin with some pieces including instrumental accompaniment.  With D. R. Haught on guitar, the Chamber Singers will perform Albert Hernandez's modern interpretation of a Venezuelan calypso, Goza Mi Calipso; while percussionist Jake Lange plays percussion on a variety of other pieces including Edmund Hughes' arrangement of the Brazilian folk song Eu e Voce.  The Chamber Singers will also present the first movement of Kyrie from "Missa ego flos campi" by the Mexican Renaissance composer Juan Gutierrez Padilla; and Fransisco Mignone's arrangement of the traditional Brazilian poem about a lovely woman with chestnut eyes, Morena, Morena.  

With recent graduate Jordan Black as the guest conductor and Holly Allan as accompanist, the Women's Chorus will perform the gently flowing "Barter" by Rene Clausen based on the poem written by Sara Teasdale; and the popular Mexican song Cielito Lindo.  The Women's Chorus will also present Alberto Favero's Te Quiero featuring a trio comprised of Stephanie Rankin, Marguerite Tryling and Elizabeth Papantonio. 

The Chamber Singers and Women's Chorus will perform as a combined ensemble for Ernanu Aguiar's "Salmo 150," a modern setting of the 150th Psalm.

EXCEPTIONAL MUSICIANS SELECTED FOR SPRING HONORS RECITAL

Ashland University Department of Music presents the best of Spring 2014 at the Honors Recital on Wednesday, April 23 at 7:30 p.m. in the Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall in the Center for the Arts. Students who accomplished exceptional musical work during the semester will showcase their vocal and instrumental talents. 

Featured instrumentalists include Jaylynn Buchmelter, trombone; Emily Minns, flute; Katie Metz, trumpet; and Rachel Crow, piano. Vocal performances will feature sopranos Katie Mounts and Kelsey Bowens, mezzo-soprano Samantha Diemer, tenors Caleb Stout and Jacob Poiner, and baritones Deric Dove and Andrew Shaffer.

AUJO PRESENTS JAZZ AT THE NEST, APR. 22

Led by Dr. Scott Garlock, Professor of Music, the award-winning Ashland University Jazz Orchestra will perform a wide variety of selections at a free public concert on Tuesday, April 22 in the Hawkins-Conard Student Center’s Eagles Nest at 7:30 p.m. Audience members are welcome to grab a snack, enjoy a beverage and relax to the live music of AUJO at the Nest.

Pieces in the program include Bob Florence’s Be Bop Charlie,Benny Carter’s Miss Missouri and Jackson County Jubilee, and Matt Wilson’s 25 Years of Rootabagas. Other possible tunes include Fascinating Rhythm, Willow Weep for Me, and Deedles’ Blues.

TWO FUN EVENINGS OF OPERA SCENES & ICE CREAM

Ashland University Department of Music presents two evenings of opera scenes from The Marriage of Figaro to Carmen and Man of La Mancha.  The performances which are free and open to the public are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, April 11 and 12, 7:30 p.m. at the Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall.

Under the direction of Stephanie Sikora, Professor of Music and Head of the Voice Area in the Department of Music at Ashland University, this annual event features vocal performances from twelve student singers. The female cast includes sopranos Abigail Brady, Rachel Gollhardt, Victoria Horak, Fatima Imani Smith, Grace Keller and Erin Lingenfelter along with mezzo-sopranos Andrea Disch and Alexandra Newhouse.  Male singers include tenor Caleb Stout, and baritones Darion Dow, Deric Dove and Andrew Shaffer.

With scenes from eight different operas each evening, the program presents scenes from Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro and The Magic Flute, Strauss' Die Fledermaus, Loesser's The Most Happy Fella, Gilbert & Sullivan's Mikado, Bizet's Carmen, Leigh and Darion's Man of La Mancha, and Street Scene by Weill and Hughes as the grand finale including a special discount for audience members at Eva's Treats after each performance.

ASHLAND SOPRANO KATHRYN MOUNTS PERFORMS SENIOR RECITAL

The Department of Music at Ashland University presents a senior vocal recital featuring Ashland High School graduate and Savannah resident Kathryn Mounts on Sunday, March 30 at 7:30 p.m. in the Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall. The recital is free and open to the public.

With a double-major in musical theatre and vocal music and a minor in history, Miss Mounts studies voice privately with Denise Howell at Ashland University. Accompanied by pianist Deb Logan, the concert program will include a variety of classical pieces from Bellini, Mozart, Lotti, Poulenc, Obradors and Arnold Cooke along with musical theatre selections including Girl in 14 G, If You Hadn't But You Did from On the Aisle, Won't Say I'm in Love from Hercules and Let it Go from Frozen. 

AWARD-WINNING VIOLINIST AND PIANIST PERFORMING AT AU

Ashland University Department of Music presents a guest artist recital with award winning violinist Jinjoo Cho and pianist HyunSoo Kim on Monday, March 31 at 7:30 p.m. in the Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall. The concert is free and open to the public. 

The program for the concert will begin with Claude Debussy's final composition, Sonata No. 3 in G minor, followed by Czech composer Leoš Janáček's Violin Sonata, and Grammy-winning contemporary American composer Joan Tower's String Force.  After intermission, the concert will conclude with Sergei Prokofiev's Sonata No. 1 in F minor. Inspired by one of Handel's violin sonatas, and the four-movement structure, slow-fast-slow-fast, the Sonata's first movement is a haunting prelude while the second movement is a vigorously contested debate. The third movement is a lullaby followed by a folk dance in shifting meters for the finale. Prokofiev described the violin scales at the end of the first and fourth movements as 'wind passing through a graveyard'. These movements were played at Prokofiev's funeral.  

Violinist Jinjoo Cho has won several international violin competitions including the Alice and Eleonore Schoenfeld International String Competition, the Buenos Aires International Violin Competition, the Montréal International Musical Competition and the Stulberg International String Competition. She has appeared as a soloist with numerous orchestras such as The Cleveland Orchestra, Seoul Philharmonic, Aspen Concert Orchestra, and Ashland's own Symphony Orchestra. Jinjoo is a native of Seoul, South Korea, and a graduate of Yewon Art School and the Korean National University of Arts (Pre-College). She came to the U.S. in 2002 to study with Paul Kantor and participate in the Cleveland Institute of Music's Young Artist Program. Jinjoo attended the Curtis Institute of Music, but returned to CIM earning Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in violin performance. 

HyunSoo Kim is also a native of South Korea and began to play piano at the age of eight. He received a Bachelor of Music in piano performance from the University of Delaware and completed his Master’s degree in Collaborative Piano at the Cleveland Institute of Music in 2011 where he received the Rosa Lobe Collaborative Piano award. HyunSoo recently completed his Artist Diploma with Anita Pontremoli at the Cleveland Institute of Music, and has served as a staff pianist at Kent State University since 2011. HyunSoo has served as a collaborative pianist at Interlochen Arts Academy and recently joined the CIM collaborative piano staff. He has performed as soloist with the University of Delaware Symphony Orchestra, the Newark Symphony Orchestra and numerous community orchestras in the Delaware region.

BAND CONCERT HONORS AREA JUNIOR HIGH INSTRUMENTALISTS

In Celebration of Music in Our Schools Month, Ashland University Department of Music will host the annual Ashland County Junior High School Honors Band on Sunday, March 23 at 4:00 p.m. in Hugo Young Theatre with the Ashland University Concert Band as the featured guest ensemble.  Leonard Salvo, Ashland University Director of Bands, will conduct both bands.

Consisting of 85 members, the Ashland County Junior High Honors Band includes seventh and eighth grade students from Ashland, Crestview, Hillsdale, Loudonville-Perrysville and Mapleton Schools.  Members of the Ashland County Band Directors Association meet with Leonard Salvo and Crestview's Christopher Thompson, this year’s chairman, to plan the program.  The committee of band directors selects the honors band members based on merit and instrumentation needs of the band. Students meet at Ashland University on Thursday, March 20 and Sunday, March 23 to rehearse and present this program with music ranging from classical selections to traditional marches. 

The 65-member Ashland University Concert Band will open the concert with a cameo program of wonderful but unusual music chosen especially to highlight the day. The Junior High School Honors Band will perform following the University Concert Band’s program. The combination of these two bands make for a rewarding, exciting and satisfying musical experience for both the performers and the audience. Admission is complimentary and a recording can be ordered.

MATT WILSON QUARTET HEADLINES JAZZ FESTIVAL

Ashland University’s award-winning Jazz program is proud to present the 2014 Maplerock Jazz Festival slated for Friday, March 21. Along with free performances by area high school jazz ensembles in the afternoon, the event presents a main stage concert at 7:30 p.m. in Hugo Young Theatre featuring the Ashland University Jazz Orchestra under the direction of Dr. Scott Garlock, and the Matt Wilson Quartet as guest artist.

The afternoon performances are free and open to the public while tickets for the evening concert are available through the Ashland University Box Office at 419.289.5125, 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, or online (additional fees apply) at www.ashland.edu/tickets.

Comprised of New York based drummer and Grammy nominee Matt Wilson, bassist Chris Lightcap, Jeff Lederer on tenor saxophone and clarinet, and Kirk Knuffke on cornet, the Matt Wilson Quartet was formed in 1996.  As the quartet’s founder, Wilson is one of today's most celebrated jazz artists. He is universally recognized for his musical and melodic drumming style as well as being a gifted composer, bandleader, producer, and teaching artist. His positive energy, sense of humor and ability to explore a broad range of musical settings keeps him in constant demand. In addition, Wilson’s dedication to jazz has helped establish him as a beloved world ambassador for the music, on and off the bandstand.   

Wilson has performed with many music legends including Herbie Hancock, Elvis Costello, and Wynton Marsalis, and he has appeared on 250 CDs as a sideman and has released 9 as a leader for Palmetto Records as well as co-leading 5 additional releases.  Matt performed at the White House as part of an all-star jazz group for a State Dinner concert hosted by President Obama. He was named the artist in residence at the Litchfield Jazz Festival where he conducted a much-heralded public interview with Dave Brubeck. In 2010, Wilson conducted over 250 outreach programs promoting jazz including an acclaimed Jazz for Young Peoples concert at Lincoln Center.

In November 2009, Matt was featured on the covers of both Downbeat and JazzTimes magazines and was voted #1 Rising Star Drummer in the Downbeat Critic’s Poll for 5 consecutive years. The readers of JazzTimes recently chose him as one of the top 4 drummers in the 2010 Readers Poll. In 2003, he was voted Drummer of the Year by the Jazz Journalists Association.

The high school and middle school performance schedule in Hugo Young Theatre is as follows:
1:00 p.m.         Ashland Middle School
1:30 p.m.         Wellington High School
2:00 p.m.         Ashland High School Jazz Band B
2:30 p.m.         Rittman High School
3:00 p.m.         Ashland High School Jazz Band A
3:30 p.m.         Orrville High School

Tickets for the evening concert are $10 for adults; $5 for senior citizens, non-Ashland University students and Ashland University faculty and staff; and free for Ashland University students.

GUEST ARTISTS PERFORM SONGS OF BEETHOVEN

Ashland University Department of Music presents a guest artist recital, “Songs of Beethoven,” on Thursday, March 20 at 7:30 p.m. in the Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall. The concert is free and open to the public.

This recital will feature sopranos Stephanie Sikora (Ashland University Professor of Voice) and Katharine DeBoer, tenor Timothy Johnson, and James Meadors on the guitar. This program of Beethoven songs with guitar transcriptions by James Meadors is presented in approximate chronological order by poet, which generally correlates with the order in which Beethoven set the texts. Of Beethoven’s sixty-six songs composed for accompaniment by the (then) new pianoforte, Meadors’ transcriptions favor those which are most adaptable to guitar. 

Two master classes will also be offered by guitarists Dr. Meadors and Dr. DeBoer on March 20. The two sessions are located in the Center for the Arts at 10:50 a.m.-12:05 p.m. in Rm. 102 and 12:15-1:05 p.m. in Rm. 242. These classes are free and open to public observation.

SPRING CHORAL CONCERT FEATURES FOUR VOCAL ENSEMBLES

Ashland University’s Spring Choral Concert features four University vocal ensembles including the Ashland University Choir, Chamber Singers, Women’s Chorus, and the student a cappella group Surround Sound on Sunday, March 16, 4:00 p.m. at the Jack and Deb Miller Chapel.  The performance is free and open to the public.

Dr. Rowland Blackley, Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities, will conduct the Ashland University Chamber Singers performing J.S. Bach's Organ Fugue along with Daniel Gawthrop's "Sing Me to Heaven," and John David's "You Are the New Day." Dr. Blackley will also direct the University Choir which will be accompanied by University Organist Dr. Timothy Guenther.  The Choir will perform three pieces which were written by recent visiting artist Anthony Iannaccone along with Morten Lauridsen's "Sure on This Shining Night" and René Clausen's "All That Hath Life and Breath.

The Women's Chorus, directed by Dr. Marla Butke with pianists Holly Allen and Eddie Carney accompanying, will present Hans Leo Hassler's Cantate Domino, Alice Parker's arrangement of "'Tis the Gift to be Simple" and Pablo Casals' "Nigra Sun."

With DR Haught as music director, the student-run Surround Sound will perform popular tunes including Pentatonix's arrangement of Justin Bieber and Katy Perry's "As Long as You Love Me/Wide Awake," Cee Lo Green's "Forget You" and Kelly Clarkson's "Since U Been Gone."

ENTERTAINMENT POWERHOUSE APPEARING THIS FRIDAY & SATURDAY

Ashland University Spectrum Series presents

THE DEPUE BROTHERS BAND

Live In Concert

Saturday, March 15 at 7:30 p.m.
Hugo Young Theatre, Ashland University 

For a preview of The DePue Brothers Band, click HERE.

TICKETS $15 adults | $12 senior citizens, non-AU students, AU faculty/staff

$10 groups of 10 or more | $2 AU student

BOX OFFICE 419.289.5125, noon to 6 p.m., Monday - Friday,

or online (additional fees apply) at www.ashland.edu/tickets

 

The 34th annual Ashland University Spectrum Series continues with the iconic musical family, The DePue Brothers Band, for a main stage performance, senior citizen matinee, and percussion clinic on March 14 and 15.

Originating from Bowling Green, Ohio, the DePue Brothers Band is an entertainment powerhouse encompassing a vivid blend of bluegrass, classical, and rock genres. Each brother is a classical violinist virtuoso in his own right, and brings rich and diverse talents to their sound. As a family they have been making music together for over 25 years. They were named “Musical Family of America” in 1989 by presidential decree, were the subject of a nationally televised PBS documentary in 1993, and two brothers (Jason and Zach) were featured in the film documentary Music From the Inside Out in 2005. Their first album as brothers, Classical Grass, sold out of its first printing.

For their visit to Ashland, violinists Wallace and Jason DePue join guitarist Mark Cosgrove, Mike Munford on banjo, Kevin MacConnell on bass, and percussionist Don Liuzzi.  Four members of this sextet have performed with the Philadephia Orchestra and several notable classical ensembles while others have performed with ensembles such as Philly Pops, POPG percussion group, Tony Trischka’s “Double Banjo Spectacular,” with jazz greats Mel Torme, Billy Eckstine, and international performers such as Natalie Cole, Merv Griffin and opera diva Denyce Graves. With this progressive mix of genres, the band gives a direct nod to their bluegrass tradition and their classical training, while adding a deeper infusion of rock and blues.

Their main stage performance will be held on Saturday, March 15 at 7:30 p.m. in the Hugo Young Theatre.  The high energy and diverse program will feature pieces from Aaron Copland’s Hoedown to Earl Scrugg’s Flint Hill Special, J. S. Bach’s Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, Van Halen’s Ice Cream Man and Rouse's Orange Blossom Special along with many others.

This artist residency has been awarded grant support from the National Endowment for the Arts; the Ohio Arts Council with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans; and the Pennsylvania Performing Arts on Tour, a program developed and funded by The Heinz Endowments, the William Penn Foundation, the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency, and The Pew Charitable Trusts with administration by Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation. 

Also Presenting

FREE PERCUSSION WORKSHOP:
"The Role of the Roll"
with DePue Brothers percussionist and The Philadelphia Orchestra's principal timpanist Don Liuzzi
Friday, Mar. 14 at 1 p.m., Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall
Free & open to the public

MATINEE CONCERT:
for Senior Citizen Organizations & Other Groups
Saturday, Mar. 15 at 2 p.m., Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall
$2 per person - Reserve at 419.289.5950 or tapplega@ashland.edu