The Andrews University Music Festival 2023 Concert took place on Sabbath, March 4. (Photo by Randy Ramos, University Communication student photographer)
This festival has a long history—it began in the 1950s as a recruitment event to celebrate the ongoing music programs at constituent academies. It was created as a general music festival for band, choir and orchestra, and this continues today.
Consequently, the 2019 Music Festival focused on band and keyboard, while the 2023 theme was choir and orchestra. With a mixture of masterclasses, side-by-side rehearsals with select Andrews music majors and the final concert, Music Festival effectively helps students develop their skills.
“The high-level performing experiences positively strengthen the mission and focus of music programs at the academies,” says Stephen Zork, professor of music and conductor of the Andrews University Singers. “It teaches students the importance of creative expression, discovery and mastery, within the context of submission and vulnerability.”
Andrews Academy senior Nate Miller who participated in the 2023 Music Festival was impressed with the music faculty. “I’d seen them work from afar, but hadn’t been able to witness their work firsthand,” he says. He was particularly impressed with the music department’s professor, Marc Elysee, who worked to help the orchestra improve their sound. “I know I’m a much better violist because of the intensive rehearsals that were in the hands of such a maestro,” added Miller.
Music Festival is one of several programs for high school aged students offered at Andrews University and plays an important role in providing a meaningful, hands-on educational experience for attendees. Ultimately, the goal is to help each attendee find their passion and skills while they interact with university professors and fellow students in the midst of a Christ-centered atmosphere.
You can watch the concert at bit.ly/3TqetWu
For more information on the Music Festival, visit: www.andrews.edu/cas/music/
Lake Union Herald staff
