Honors recital will showcase top music students
Students selected by Bethel music faculty will perform a series of solo pieces in this annual recital.
The honors recital showcases the remarkable achievements of students who have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication to their craft. From classical compositions to contemporary pieces, their repertoire promises to captivate audiences and highlight the diverse talents within Bethel's music community.
"Of course, it is an honor to be selected to play in this recital,” expressed senior music education major Eli Regier from Newton. “Following the fall semester juries, the music faculty selects students who have worked hard to improve their craft to play in the recital as a celebration of their diligence."
When asked about his chosen piece, Regier revealed, "I will be performing part of the Muczynski Sonata, written in 1970. I selected this piece because it is a standard piece of the saxophone repertory that I wanted to have under my belt. What caught my ear was its dramatic and brooding mood, as well as some of the technical challenges of the extremes of the saxophone register."
The students spent much of last semester preparing for their performances. "Like any good performance, the preparation starts months in advance,” said Regier. “The musician must research past performances and then infuse their own personal interpretation of the piece into the precedence set before them.
Regier also called attention to the invaluable work of associate professor of music Dr. Christina Liu. “Since this piece is accompanied by piano, the soloist and the accompanist rehearse together to create the final product. Dr. Christina Liu accompanies dozens of soloists each semester and does an amazing job!"
Reflecting on Bethel's music department, Regier emphasized that "the Bethel College music program is truly holistic. That is, the music faculty understands that a music education is not just about being a music theory expert, or a good singer, but more so about the relationships we build, the way we take care of ourselves, and especially about the students we teach."
The honors recital not only serves as a platform for these talented musicians to shine, but also as an opportunity for the community to come together and appreciate the beauty of music. Everyone is invited to applaud the hard work and passion that these student performers will bring to the stage.
The students performing at the 2024 honors recital are Seth Balzer, Peter Buller, Sophia Chindamo, Josué Coy Dick, Halle Krehbiel, Kyra Linenberger, and Eli Regier. It will be held Sunday, Jan. 21 at 4 p.m. in the Bethel chapel.