IMMACULATA UNIVERSITY MUSIC DEPARTMENT NEWSLETTER
Editor: Kailee McWilliams
NOVEMBER, 2019
Table of Contents Curtis Symphony Orchestra...... pg. 2
Practice Room Etiquette.......... pg. 5
Practice Tip of the Month........ pg. 2
Honors Band & Choir............. pg. 6
American Rhapsody................... pg. 3
Ensembles Concert.................. pg.6
Where is Mr. Gehring............... pg. 3
Choir Concert............................ pg. 7
Concert Band................................. pg. 4
Upcoming Events..................... pg. 7
Music Crossword........................ pg. 4
Crossword Answers................ pg. 7
Photograph by: Mr. Joseph Gehring
On Saturday October 19th, 2019, The Curtis Symphony Orchestra of the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia performed at Immaculata University's Alumnae Hall. The Curtis Symphony delivered an outstanding concert for students, faculty, and community members that evening. *Continue to page 2 to read more!
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NOVEMBER 2019
The Curtis Symphony Orchestra Written by Emily Cox , Class of 2021
On Saturday, October 19th, the Curtis Symphony Orchestra performed yet another outstanding concert at Immaculata University. The program offered true musical diversity with performances of Beethoven’s Leonore Overture No. 3 and Mozart’s Serenade in B-flat Major in the first half and the Philadelphia area premiere of Theofanidis’ Drum Circles after the intermission. The Beethoven piece was characterized by its crescendos, builds, and dynamics. The instruments seemed to be in conversation with each other. Mozart’s Serenade in B-flat Major was a small chamber piece that featured expressive solos. The musicians displayed true virtuosity and almost perfection throughout the entire performance. Although impossible to overshadow Beethoven and Mozart, Theofanidis came very close. Drum Circles was a musical production, with the percussionists placed in-front the orchestra. From the beginning, the audience was captivated by the piece. The percussionists had the highest standard and level of precision and expression. The marimba soloists especially were connected in a special way and looked almost to be dancing. Musically, each movement both contrasted and complemented each other and were the definition of creativity. Though chaotic in the best way possible, the first movement was a magical experience that put to music how a Disney movie feels. The climax of the second movement could only be described as heavenly. The last movement was especially breathtaking. The music provided substance and description to those moments in life that are so powerful you never thought they could be explained. There was not a person in the audience that was not reminded of the importance and magic of music, which was exemplified in the standing ovation for the performers and composer. Each performer and audience member were connected that night through the music and the magic made by it.
Photograph by: Mr. Joseph Gehring
Practice Tip of the Month
Written by Kailee McWilliams, Class of 2020 If you tend to feel overwhelmed when you enter the practice room, remember that you should always have a goal in mind for each time you practice. These goals should comply with your larger semester goals which are made with your applied lesson instructor in the beginning of the semester. Remember, you cannot get to where you are going unless you have a plan with how to get there. Happy practicing!
NOVEMBER 2019
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Symphony: American Rhapsody Written by Kailee McWilliams, Class of 2020
On Saturday, November 2nd, 2019, members of the Immaculata community filled Immaculata's Alumnae Hall. The Immaculata Symphony Orchestra, directed by Mr. Joseph Gehring, Director of Ensembles/ Coordinator for Music Education, prepared diligently for this night of music. This concert included the Merry Mount Suite composed by Howard Hanson (1896-1981), American Salute composed by Morton Gould (1913-1996), "Afro-American" Symphony composed by William Grant Still (1895-1978), and Rhapsody in Blue composed by George Gershwin (1898-1937). This concert displayed works composed by American musicians and composers. The musical works performed throughout this performance have been monumental through the history of American music literature. Rhapsody in Blue is a piece that is widely recognize by all. The symphony was honored to have this piece featuring Immaculata's very own, Dr. William Carr. Currently serving as the Immaculata University Music Department Chair, Dr. Carr received his title as a Steinway Artist in May of 2005. This world renowned recognition is a huge accomplishment as it is achieving the highest level of piano musical performance. George Gershwin was also placed on the Steinway Artists roster along with many other influential artists. Along with the members of the Immaculata Symphony, Dr. Carr prepared for this performance diligently. All of the efforts made by many paid off when an incredible and moving performance was given. Congratulations to Dr. Carr and the Immaculata Symphony Orchestra for beautifully showcasing American works.
Where is Mr. Gehring?
Written by Kailee McWilliams, Class of 2020
Have you recently gone to visit Mr. Gehring in his office located in the Music Hall? Have you been so sad to find that he is not there? Don't worry! Mr. Gehring has a new office located on the second floor of Villa Maria. More specifically, his office door is directly next to the printer that is located across the hall from the Music Department office.
NOVEMBER 2019
Concert Band
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Written by Julia Gillies , Class of 2022 The Fall Band Concert took place on Sunday, October 20th, 2019 which featured the Immaculata University Concert Band and the West Chester Band. The concert was conducted by Mr. Joseph Ghering which performed a program including a variety of musical pieces of the modern era. The pieces included Fanfare and Flourishes, Havendance, Second Suite in F, Amparito Roca, and Fantasia in G; Second Suite in F was divided into four movements: “March,” “Song Without Words,” “Song of the Blacksmith,” and “Fantasia on the ‘Dargason.’” The composers included James Curnow, David Holsinger, Gustav Holst, Jamie Texidor, and Timothy Mathr. The dates of the pieces ranged from 1874-1956, so the audience was able to experience a diversity from nine different decades. Even in the light of diversity, a “Big Band” motif was present. This motif was the highlight of the entire concert. Music accumulated in sound throughout the Great Hall, creating a bright atmosphere which captured the audience’s hearts; it was evident that the band was in unison and worked together to put on the best performance possible. Their efforts were not unnoticed, as the concert was a huge success, and they received a standing ovation by all. By the end of the show, everybody was ecstatic; despite the rainy weather brewing all afternoon, the concert helped bring sunshine among the clouds outside. Congratulations to Mr. Gehring and the Immaculata University Concert Band on a successful concert!
Music Crossword
NOVEMBER 2019
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Practice Room Etiquette Written by Kailee McWilliams, Class of 2020 As we approach the new year of 2020, it is important to be reminded of practice room etiquette. First and foremost, the practice room is a place to practice, study, and prepare your music. Immaculata University has given the music students these practice rooms to assist with our music preparation and studies. Unfortunately, many students have not treated these practice rooms with respect. Here are a few reminders regarding Music Hall and the practice rooms: When leaving the practice room. please shut off the lights and leave the door open. Please keep excessive food and drink out of the practice room. While a quick snack and a drink is fine, entire meals should not be consumed in the rooms. All trash MUST be thrown away. Do not leave food, wrappers, or personal belongings in practice rooms. Remember to leave the practice room better than you found it! The use of any electronic smoking devices such as JUUL or NJoy will NOT be tolerated. Smoking of any kind will not be permitted. Please be respectful of other students practice time. Practice rooms are not a place to party or hang out with all of your friends. Finally, if any damage to the room or piano has occurred, please let a music department student worker or Mauri Dillon in the music office know immediately.
NOVEMBER 2019
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High School Honors Band & Choir Written by Erin Gouak, Class of 2022
On Wednesday, November 13th, the Immaculata Music Department held a High School Music Festival for Honors Choir and Band. Ten high schools were invited to perform under the direction of Dorina Morrow and Joseph Gehring. The students arrived at Immaculata early in the morning and rehearsed throughout the day in preparation for the concert that night. They performed " An American Songbook" by Douglas Wagner which included many fold tunes that the audience enjoyed. Congratulations to those student who performed and to those in the Music Department who made this event possible!
Ensembles Concert Written by Jessica Migrala, Class of 2021
The brass ensemble and flute choir were both featured during this semester’s small ensembles concert. The brass ensemble featured James Dunwoody, Megan Hernandez, Madison Molnar, and Mr. Joseph Gehring. They performed a variety of pieces including Canzona, Gloria from the Nelson Mass, and Overture to H.M.S. Pinafore. The first piece performed by the brass ensemble was Canzona, Ch.194, which was composed by Giovanni Gabrieli (1553-1612). A canzona is a genre of Italian instrumental music in the 16th and 17th centuries which include a song-like structure. The second piece that was performed was Gloria from the Nelson Mass, which was composed by Franz Joseph Haydn (1732-1809). The Nelson Mass was one of fourteen masses written by Haydn and is considered to be one of his greatest single compositions. The third and final piece that was performed was Overture to H.M.S. Pinafore, which was composed by Sir Arthur Sullivan (1842-1900). Also known as The Lass That Loved a Sailor, this piece is from an opera that first opened at the Opera Comique in London on May 25th, 1878. The brass ensemble did a great job performing these pieces and representing diverse musical genres. The second ensemble to perform was The Heavenly High Notes Flute Choir, directed by Dr. Paula Nelson which featured Carrie Hawbaker and Kate Graziano. The choir also preformed three pieces, including Allegro from Trio in G minor, Op. 13, No. 2; Movements III and IV from Flutes en vacances; and Rondo, Op, 25. The first piece, Trio in G Minor Op. 13, No. 2, composed by Friedrich Kuhlau (1786-1832). They performed the second movement, Allegro con moto. Kuhlau was known for his operatic works and piano compositions, taking much inspiration from Beethoven, but was also known for composing several pieces for flute. The second piece that was performed was Flutes en vacances which was composed by Jacques Castérède(1926-2014). The flute choir performed the third and fourth movements. The translation of the title of this piece is flutes on holiday. The third and final piece performed was Rondo, Op. 25, which was composed by Franz Doppler (1821-1883). A rondo is a musical form with a recurring leading theme, which usually stems from a particular melody or section. The flute choir did an excellent job performing these pieces with poise and elegance. This fall ensembles concert was a success.
NOVEMBER 2019
Choir Concert
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Written by Meghan Hernandez, Class of 2022
On November 8th, 2019, the Chorale and Madrigal Singers had their Fall Concert. The Program consisted of a variety of music, showcasing the different talents of the singers that performed. Directed by Mrs. Dorina Morrow and accompanied by Mr. Cameron Stringham, the concert was performed beautifully. The chorale sang several fantastic pieces, including Johann Sebastian Bach’s Magnificat in D major, Z. Randall Stroope’s Omnia Sol, Paul Caldwell and Sean Ivory’s arrangement of Irish Folk Song Carrickfergus, Larry E. Schultz’s Sing a Festive Song. Roland Woehr, Jr.’s arrangement of Billy Joel’s And, So it Goes, which featured the Chorale Tenors and Basses, and Eleanor Daley’s What Sweeter Music, which featured the Chorale Sopranos and Altos, with solos from Anna Freeman, Catherine Carey, and Erin Gouak. The Madrigal Singers performed Vijay Singh’s Johnny Said “No!”, Joni Jensen’s arrangement of Traditional Spanish Folk Song El Vito, which included a solo from Julia Gillies, Z. Randall Stroope’s There is No Rose, and Mac Huff’s arrangement of It Don’t Mean a Thing If It Ain’t Got Swing, made famous by Duke Ellington. Congratulations to the Choir and Madrigal Singers for a successful concert!
Upcoming Events Evening Student Recital Wednesday, December 4 Memorial Hall 7:30 pm
Carol Night
Friday, December 6 Rotunda 7:00 pm
Please be advised that jury sign up sheets will be posted soon. Juries for the Fall 2019 semester will be held on Tuesday Dec. 10th through Thursday Dec. 12th.
Symphony Christmas Concert
Sunday, December 8 Alumnae Hall 3:00 pm
Curtis Symphony Thursday, January 30 Alumnae Hall 8:00 pm
Symphony Youth Concert
Sunday, February 9 Alumnae Hall 3:00 pm
Ms. Jennifer Campbell, Piano
Saturday, February 22 Memorial Hall 7:00 pm
Symphony Spring Concert
Saturday, April 4 Alumnae Hall 7:30 pm
Please be advised that we will have more upcoming events posted in our next newsletter addition. To find out all of the department events for the Spring 2020 semester, please contact the music department.