School of Music not turning a deaf earBy Dana Reiber

Many heads turn as people pass the School of Music’s ever-noisy walls. Some are confused by the sopranoÍs screeching arpeggios. Many are awe-struck by the beauty of the flute. Others are motivated by the rally songs played on the marching tuba. However, few dare get any closer than ear-shot (which is usually several blocks away). But those who dare pass within the walls of the artistic compound experience much more than just noise. The music students and faculty constantly work to create music in many different ways. And all of the music fields require hard work and dedication. Not to mention countless hours of individual practice and study.”Because I am an instrumentalist and a vocalist, I have to practice more than I like. I’ll leave it at that,” sighs Knight Drury, a sophomore vocal performance major.

The School of Music offers courses in keyboard, voice, instrumental performance, music education, music history, theory/composition, jazz studies, and music therapy. Many different musical genres are also represented in the different classes. Classical, Twentieth Century, Rock and Roll, Irish, Baroque, Jazz, and more can be heard throughout the hallways. Resulting from efforts to strengthen all fields of music, the music school has earned an exceptional reputation. The UofL School of Music is renowned for contemporary music, composition, education, performance, and their newest degree offering, music therapy.

“There are so many different aspects of music, and they all reflect a part of my life,” expresses Knight Drury. “I love music and I couldnÍt live without it.”

Considering the numerous music courses, Dr. Naomi Oliphant, Associate Dean, comments, “In order to be a good musician, you need good grounding in the other aspects of music. Many students want to be teachers and need theory and education classes. Performers also need more than just a performance background. The more you learn about music influences your performance as a well-rounded musician.”

“Our purpose is to serve students with strong interest in developing musical skills. Also, we provide general courses for non-majors who are interested in music or performing ensembles. And we serve the community with a series of concerts. We would like to encourage the University community to attend some of the 300 plus concerts and events held at the School of Music this year. Many of them are free. Everyone is welcome.”

Although there are more than 300 events to attend, The Signature Series areselected concerts of great interest to many patrons. Student tickets are $2 individually or $15 as a package. The Signature Series concerts include:

  • The Faculty Gala Friday, 14 September, 8:00 P.M.
  • Symphony OrchestraSunday, 23 September, 7:30 P.M.
  • Richard Goode, piano Wednesday, 3 October, 8:00 P.M.
  • 2001 New Music Festival Saturday, 3 November, 8:00 P.M.
  • Holiday Concert Sunday, 2 December, 7:30 P.M.
  • Faculty Showcase Sunday, 3 February, 7:30 P.M.
  • Wind Symphony Sunday, 10 February, 8:00 P.M.
  • QUINK Monday, 25 February, 8:00 P.M.
  • Collegiate Chorale Sunday, 24 March, 5:00 P.M.
  • Opera Theatre Friday-Saturday, 5-6 April, 8:00 P.M.
  • Jazz Ensemble I Tuesday, 16 April, 8:00 P.M.

The School of Music has much to interest everyone, regardless of their musical commitment. Listen to one of thousands of CDs in the Music Library. Or become involved in another way.Dr. Oliphant adds, “If you have an interest in having musical involvement or continued study, come over and see us.