Belhaven Music

http://www.wlbt.com/story/16924153/guitar-festival-showcases-classical-performances

Check out this link showing video coverage of out Guitar Festival on February 9th and 10th!

February 4, 2012

Dear Friends of the Music Department at Belhaven University,

Greetings from Jackson, MS.

Amazing, Japanese Magnolia trees blooming on January 25^th.  It looks like we’ve forgotten the winter season for this year.  In the meantime, our spring semester has started and the concert opportunities for the Belhaven community and greater Jackson community abound.  This brief note will get you up-do-date on happenings this semester in the Music Department and look ahead at an incredible concert calendar over just the next 8 days.  For all that we are able to do, we give God the glory for His tremendous  blessings.  As you read this newsletter, please note that current music majors are highlighted by underlining, music faculty and staff are highlighted in italics.

We have already had a great start to the semester.  Dr. Christopher Shelt directed two Children’s Operas, “Little Red Riding Hood” (LRRH) and “The Toy Shop” (TTS) by Seymour Barab, where several of our vocalists were featured over 7 performances with easily 1000 people in attendance including Jackson Public School audiences.  John Mathieu was the Wolf in “Little Red Riding Hood” and The Toy Maker in “The Toy Shop”; the rest of the cast of “Little Red Riding Hood” included Brooke Edwards as Little Red Riding Hood, Rebeka Larson as the Mother, Lauren Pratt as the Grandmother, and Andrew Craig as the Woodman.  Also featured in “The Toy Shop” were Lydia Moore as Pauline, Spencer Lee as The Great Blunder, Andrew Craig as Paul, and Rebeka Larson as Paulette.  Mr. Tim Dail, our Staff Accompanist, provided superb accompaniment.  Countless others participated behind the scenes to make this a memorable event.

Following is a brief listing of the tremendous musical offerings occurring during this next week.  I hope many of you will be able to attend these great events.

THE BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC

Dr. Stephen W. Sachs, Chair

presents

~Collaborative Arts Concert~

 Saturday, February 4 • 7:30pm • Concert Hall

Faculty and students from Belhaven’s Dance, Music & Visual Arts Departments collaborate on an evening of innovative and exploratory arts.

Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

Preston Chamber Music Series:

~An Evening of Diamonds ~

- Belhaven Piano Trio

Tuesday, February 7 • 7:30pm • Concert Hall

 Mississippi Symphony Orchestra principal cellist Mr. Bennett Randman joins faculty members Mr. Song Xie, violinist and Dr. Stephen Sachs, pianist in an inspiring evening of music making including the effervescent French Piano Trio No. 1 in F Major, Op. 18 by Camille Saint-Saëns and the delightful Piano Trio No. 4, Op. 11 by Ludwig van Beethoven.

Event tickets $10, Seniors $5, Students free with ID. 

Complimentary admission for Belhaven Faculty/Staff/Students and immediate families.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

~MS Guitar Festival Faculty Concert~

Thursday, February 9 • 7:30pm • Recital Room

The Guitar Faculty Concert is a tradition of the Mississippi Guitar Festival, featuring guitar faculty from participating schools.  Performers include Trevor Hunt (Pearl River Community College), Nicholas Ciraldo (University of Southern Mississippi), Michael Boyd (Jones County Junior College), John Ingwerson (Hinds Community College), Barry Hause (East Central Community College), Michael Yates (Holmes Community College), Mitch Brantley (Meridian Community College), and Amy Houghton (Belhaven University, Copiah-Lincoln Community College).  Thanks to these professionals, The Mississippi Guitar Festival continues to grow every year, promoting the art of the classical guitar.  The faculty concert concludes the first day of this Festival. Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

 Preston Chamber Music Series:

~An Evening of Diamonds~

 - Pablo Garibay, Guest Artist Guitar Recital

Friday, February 10 • 7:30pm • Concert Hall

This guest artist recital is a part of the 10th annual Mississippi Guitar Festival.  The annual festival draws guitarists from across the state and nation. The festival features lectures, master classes, and student competition. Students have the opportunity to work with MS guitar faculty in lessons, and attend classes focusing on technique and repertoire.  Concerts and competitions are open to the public. For more information, contact Belhaven Adjunct Guitar Instructor Amy Houghton (amyshoughton@gmail.com). Event tickets $10, Seniors $5, Students free with ID.

Complimentary admission for Belhaven Faculty/Staff/Students and immediate families. Doors open at 7:00 pm

~Faculty Recital ~

Sylvia Hong with Michael Rector, Duo Pianist

Saturday, February 11 • 2:00pm • Concert Hall

Come hear Belhaven’s newest Music Faculty member in recital with Michael Rector.

The Suite No. 2 for Two Pianos, Op. 17 by Sergei Rachmaninoff is the centerpiece of this dynamic program.

Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

These Concerts and Events are all performed in the

Belhaven University Center For The Arts.

835 Riverside Drive Jackson, MS 39202

Many thanks to Andrew Craig, one of our very talented work study students who assembled the above graphics.

There is so much more to tell. I hope I’ll be writing again to you soon.  In the meantime, check the Belhaven University website, specifically the Music webpage http://www.belhaven.edu/arts/schedule.htm to learn more about events in all of the Arts at Belhaven.

May God Bless You, Glory to God!

Dr. Sachs

Dr. Stephen W. Sachs
Pianist & Music Chair
Belhaven University
ssachs@belhaven.edu
(601) 974-6471
(601) 974-6499 fax
http://www.belhaven.edu

Belhaven University – Our Standard is Christ

They will be called great trees of righteousness, planted by the Lord for his glory.

Isaiah 61:3 …. Belhaven University 2011-12 Verse of the Year

Friday, 7:30pm, Concert Hall

This guest artist recital is a part of the 10th annual Mississippi Guitar Festival.  The annual festival draws guitarists from across the state and nation.  The festival features lectures, master classes, and student competition.  Students have the opportunity to work with MS guitar faculty in lessons and attend classes focusing on technique and repertoire.  Concerts and competitions are open to the public.  For more information, contact Belhaven Adjunct Guitar Instructor, Amy Houghton (amyhoughton@gmail.com).  Event tickets $10, Seniors $5, Students free with ID.  Complimentary Admission for Belhaven Faculty/staff/students and immediate families.  Doors open at 7:00pm.

October 20, 2011

Dear Friends of the Music Department at Belhaven University,

Greetings from Jackson, MS. 

Can it really be that we are deep into October, that our students are not contemplating Fall Break, but instead see Thanksgiving Break and the Christmas Celebrations that follow?  It is a delight to write to you now in my eighth year as Music Chair of the Music Department here at Belhaven University.  I am constantly amazed to see how the Lord is working in the Arts at Belhaven, bringing together excellent facilities as well as dedicated students and servant teachers who seriously heed the call to be disciples.  This email brings you news of our upcoming concerts.  As you read this newsletter, please note that current music majors are highlighted by underlining, music faculty and staff are highlighted in italics.

I hope you will be able to attend some of the wonderful music making that is occurring during the next month.  Please note these imminent events listed for you below. 

October 20-22, Thursday – Saturday, 7:30 pm, Bitsy Irby Visual Arts and Dance Center
BELHAVEN MUSICAL THEATRE REVUE
WHAT I SAY GOES: A MUSICAL REVUE OF MOTHERHOOD

Don’t miss this fall’s musical theatre production of What I Say Goes: A Musical Revue of Motherhood. It contains pieces from some of Broadway’s best shows, all centering around the theme of mothers. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be entertained as you see some of Belhaven’s finest performers showcase mothers in a way you’ve never seen before! Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

Notes about the Musical Theatre Revue:

I would be remiss if I didn’t bring more to your attention about this student directed Musical Theatre Revue.  Yes, there is faculty involvement with Ms. Anne Gray serving as vocal coach along with the other vocal faculty who see most of the students cast in the production on a weekly basis.  These faculty include Dr. Christopher Shelt, Professor of Music as well as Mrs. Gena Everitt, Dr. Rebecca Geihlser and Ms. Anne Gray, the Music Department Adjunct Faculty in Voice.  Further, I am serving as Producer for the event, assisting with issues that the students find not easily solved with their resources.  But a large number of students themselves have designed this revue and have implemented its design for presentation this Thursday, Friday and Saturday.  Music Majors (Musical Theatre Emphasis) Rachel Gorman and Ellen Wise are Co-Directors/Choreographers and perform in the revue while Andrew Craig (Instrumental Music Education) is the Music Director.   Other Music Majors have significant responsibilities including Sarah Bravo (Musical Theatre Emphasis) who is the Stage Manager for the production, while Alyssa Aycock, Temperance Jones,  Joy Kenyon, Cierra Lee, Thaddeus Morris, and Morgan Robertson (Musical Theatre Emphasis students) plus Brooke Edwards and Chadwick Harman (Music Performance) are cast members.  Other students also have important roles in ensuring the success of the Musical Theatre Revue.  These include Arts Administration majors Amanda Hester (House Manager) and Spencer Lee (cast member); and Theatre Majors John Alford, Anna Rebmann, Lashunda Thomas (cast members).  Of course, there are many others who aren’t singing, but are vital to the show’s success.  These include instrumentalists Mr. Tim Dail (Music Staff Accompanist), Daniel Bravo and Jimmy Brown; Technical Director Mr. Doc Davis (Dance Department Staff); and Lighting Designer Mr. Amile Wilson; ushers Evelyn Bennett, Skyler Bready, Elizabeth Borst, Dorothy Claire Glover, Lydia Moore, Grace Anna Randall, and Emily Roy; and Page Turner Shannon Gragg. 

I hope you will come enjoy the show!  If you are planning to come Saturday night, I would advise you to call Miss Valerie Tate, Music Administrative Assistant and arrange for reserved seating.  Miss Tate’s phone number is 601-974-6494. 

November 8, Tuesday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall
PRESTON CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES: AN EVENING OF DIAMONDS
THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI FACULTY & STUDENT ENSEMBLES

University of Mississippi faculty and student musicians under the direction of Dr. Ronald Vernon present J. S. Bach’s Concerto for Two Pianos in C Minor, BWV 1060 with faculty soloists Stacy Rodgers and Diane Wang, and Stravinsky’s L’histoire du soldat (The Soldier’s Tale).   This fabulous musical offering is the first installment of an exchange concert series between the University of Mississippi and Belhaven University. 

Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

November 11, Friday, 7:30pm, Concert Hall
ORCHESTRAS & STRINGS CONCERT

You don’t want to miss stunning virtuosic performances by Belhaven University’s outstanding string students.  The Belhaven Orchestras also take the stage with The Suite from Sleeping Beauty, Tubby the Tuba, and more.  Music to thrill young and old alike! 

Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

November 15, Tuesday, 7:30 pm, Recital Room
STUDENT COMPOSERS CONCERT IX

The Belhaven Composers Forum invites you to an interactive showcase of engaging new works by Belhaven student composers. The program will explore new ways to experience the adventure of music-making as the composers and performers open windows into their creative worlds.

Complimentary admission. Doors open at 7:00 pm.

November 19, Saturday, 7:30pm, Concert Hall
November 20, Sunday, 6pm, Pear Orchard Presbyterian Church Sanctuary, Ridgeland, MS
VOCAL ARTS CONCERT
THE ART OF THE SPIRITUAL:  MOSES HOGAN REMEMBERED (1957-2003)

This concert celebrates renowned African-American composer, arranger, conductor, and concert pianist, Moses Hogan, a native of New Orleans, who met an untimely death at the age of 45 due to a brain tumor.  Though his life was short, his legendary presence within the art of choral music was truly global in scope largely through his remarkable arrangements of African-American spirituals.  Dr. Christopher Shelt leads the Belhaven University Concert Choir, Chorale, and select soloists in a stirring offering of the finest spirituals arranged by the late Moses Hogan.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

November 21, Monday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall
BEST OF BELHAVEN I

The Music Department presents the most outstanding performances of the semester on one concert.  Musical variety and excellence are the gifts from our student performers to you.   Complimentary admission. Doors open at 7:00 pm.

There is so much more to tell.  Watch for the November newsletter that will highlight many more of our students, especially our new music majors.        

May God Bless You, Glory to God!

Dr. Sachs

Dr. Stephen W. Sachs
Pianist & Music Chair
Belhaven University
ssachs@belhaven.edu
(601) 974-6471
(601) 974-6499 fax
http://www.belhaven.edu

Belhaven University – Our Standard is Christ
They will be called great trees of righteousness, planted by the Lord for his glory.
Isaiah 61:3 …. Belhaven University 2011-12 Verse of the Year

March 22, 2011

Dear Friends of the Music Department at Belhaven University,

Greetings from Jackson, MS.

Spring break is now just a memory as we move into our final 6 weeks of the semester culminating in commencement exercises for our graduating seniors on April, 30.  Can it be that another year is almost over?  Have I really been in this role as Music Chair for nearly seven years?  It must be so as I am hearing from many of our recent graduates as they are gaining entrance into graduate schools, finishing advanced degrees, and getting job placements in their field.  It is truly wonderful to see how the Lord is using our students who have persevered with practice and study through the years developing their craft to a level of excellence that brings honor and glory to our God.  Read on as this email should bring you up to speed with much of our latest news, upcoming concerts (PLEASE NOTE THE POSTPONEMENT OF TONIGHT’S RECITAL further down the page), and a focus on many of our alumni.  As you read this newsletter, please note that current music majors are highlighted by underlining, music faculty are highlighted in italics and music alumni are highlighted in bold print.

Music Alumni are moving on, or hoping to soon!

Violist Joel Andrus has been accepted into the graduate program at Central Michigan University.  CMU is waiving Joel’s tuition and providing him with a stipend!  Congratulations, Joel.  Praise the Lord!

Staff Accompanist Mrs. Nicole Harwell has received preliminary word that she has been accepted into the graduate program at the University of Northern Colorado.  Nicole, we are praying for you!

Pianist Sarah Sachs performed in a Master Class at the University of Southern Mississippi for pianist Ney Fialkov on March 1 performing works by Bernstein, Debussy and Liszt.  Sarah will receive her Master of Music degree from USM later this spring.

Soprano Tory Senete has been accepted into the graduate program at Westminster Choir College.  Congratulations, Tory.  Praise the Lord!

Others auditioning for entrance into graduate school include guitarist Suzanne Baucum, pianist Sarah Jones, soprano Claire McCullough and choral conductor/pianist Jesse Noote.  (If I am missing anyone, please let me know as I am committed to keeping up with our alum.) And others continuing towards completion of their graduate degrees include flutist Rachel Brannan, violinists Megan Russ and Julia Watkins and composer James White.

Please celebrate with me these that are continuing on in their pursuit of excellence while seeking the Lord’s will for their lives.

News from the last 6 weeks:

The Mississippi State Spring Festival of the National Association of Teachers of Singing was held recently at USM in Hattiesburg.  Six of our vocalists participated including freshmen Alyssa Aycock, Rachel Gorman, and Lydia Moore, sophomores Temperance Jones and John Mathieu, and senior Blakeney Hatcliff.  Just preparing for the rigors of competition and following through before the jury panel is worthy of praise, but this group clearly outdid themselves.  After the Preliminary round, Alyssa, Rachel, Lydia, John and Blakeney were accepted into the Semi-Finals.  But the strong success continued!  Alyssa, Rachel and John all advanced into the Final Round with the following results:  Alyssa Aycock placed third in the state in the Freshman and Sophomore Musical Theatre Division, Rachel Gorman placed second in the state in the Freshman and Sophomore Musical Theatre Division, and John Mathieu placed third in the state in the Sophomore Men division.  This speaks very highly of these students and their private teachers who include:  Dr. Christopher Shelt, Mrs. Gena Everitt, Ms. Anne Gray and Mrs. Elizabeth Richardson.

Many of our vocalists supported by a “cast of thousands” enjoyed another fine weekend of excellence in performance as they presented “The Light in the Piazza”, a musical based on the novel by Belhaven alum Elizabeth Spencer.  The performances were offered here at Belhaven on March 3, 4 and 5 to large audiences that were profuse with their affirmation!  My wife Carolyn and I attended the Saturday night performance and were truly blessed by this wonderful work and the excellent and sensitive way it was presented.  The audience shed many tears throughout this moving and poignant story of love conquering all.  The couple falling in love and eventually being married included Andrew Craig who played Fabrizio Naccarelli and Ellen Wise who played Clara Johnson.  Their stage parents included John Mathieu and Blakeney Hatcliff as Signor and Signora Naccarelli and Eric Hartzog and Lauren Pratt as Roy and Margaret Johnson.  Chadwick Harman and Brooke Edwards were portrayed as Giuseppe and Franca Naccarelli, Fabrizio’s older brother and sister-in-law.  Others with important roles in the success of the show included Rachel Gorman, the tour guide; Sarah Marie Bravo, the waitress; and Alyssa Aycock and Abby Wiggins as maids.  Staff Accompanist Mrs. Nicole Harwell and Maggie McLinden provided an excellent accompaniment to the musical at piano and synthesizer, while Jesse Emling, Temperance Jones, Drew Lamb, David Jacobs, Aimee Rankin, Amanda Hester, Stephen Fairchild, Roddy Merritt and Miss Valerie Tate provided invaluable assistance from behind the curtain.  Ushers included Daniel Bravo, Shellie Brown, Gina Condly, Matthew Forester, Emmberly Jefferson, Lydia Moore, Elisabeth Saeli, Miss Valerie Tate, Keeyonia Tyler and Megan van der Bijl.  Belhaven Theatre alumnus Ms. Amy Smith was the Director while vocal adjunct Ms. Anne Gray was the Musical Director.  Congratulations to everyone involved and a big Thank You to the Belhaven Theatre Department for facilitating the use of the Black Box Theatre for the week of the show.

On Tuesday, March 8, a Collaborative Arts Concert was offered in the Concert Hall at Belhaven.  Representing the collective creativity of The Belhaven Dance, Graphic Design, Music, Theatre and Visual Arts Departments, this was a highly unique “one-of-a-kind” performance experience for performers and audience members alike.  (Belhaven Creative Writing students were also in attendance at this program.  Their reflections on the events of the evening will also appear in print at a later time.)  More of these events are being planned for the years ahead so I hope more and more will fill the seats to witness a collaboration that has almost limitless potential to discover new ways of combining the Arts to glorify God.  Composers writing music for this event included Matthew Forester, Joshua Harton, Tony Peacock, Libby Roberts and Michael Shofner.  Belhaven faculty composer Dr. Andy Sauerwein provided coordinative leadership for the event while a host of others from all of the aforementioned Arts Departments at Belhaven made this an unforgettable evening.

On Friday, March 11 at 3 p.m., pianist Erin Desmond, student of Dr. Stephen Sachs, completed her degree requirements as she presented her Senior Piano Recital in the Concert Hall featuring works by Beethoven, Ives, Bach and Chopin.  Previously, trumpeter Joshua Harton, student of Mr. Lloyd Turner, presented his Senior Trumpet Recital on Saturday, February 26 featuring works by Copland, Ewazen, Hindemith, and Hummel.  Mrs. Nicole Harwell offered an excellent collaboration at the piano while oboist Bethany Basham ably assisted in the Copland.  And pianist Ellie Honea, student of Mrs. Carolyn Sachs, presented her Senior Piano Recital on Saturday, March 5 featuring works by Brahms, Debussy, Granados and Barber.  Congratulations to all of these recitalists!

Faculty guitarist Ms Amy Houghton arranged for guest artist Clifton Brown to present a Guitar Recital on March 1.  This was arranged almost at the last minute, so I do apologize that there was no announcement of this excellent event.  We’ll strive to do better to keep all of you informed!

On Monday, February 28, faculty violinist Mr. Song Xie, MSO cellist Mr. Bennett Randman, adjunct pianist Mrs. Carolyn Sachs and I presented our chamber recital (presented earlier in February at Belhaven) at the University of Southern Mississippi to strong accolades and positive reviews featuring works by Brahms, Bizet, and P.D.Q.Bach.

I hope you will be able to attend some of the wonderful music making that is occurring during the next month.  Please note these imminent events listed for you below.

POSTPONED UNTIL FALL SEMESTER, 2011

It is with more than a bit of sadness that I must postpone my program until next fall.  As all of my colleagues and students understand here at Belhaven, when a program is not ready to present, it is not ready to present.

March 22

Faculty Recital – Dr. Stephen Sachs, pianist Tuesday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall An evening of romantic Ballades by Frédéric Chopin and Franz Liszt express the full range of emotions from tenderness to triumph, darkness to breathtaking beauty.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

March 26

Alicia Kleeves, soprano, Junior Voice Recital Saturday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall Alicia is the student of Ms. Anne Gray.

April 8

Orchestras and Strings Concert

Friday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall

Idyll for String Orchestra by Leoš Janáček anchors this exciting evening featuring award-winning Belhaven string students in solo concerto and ensemble roles.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

April 9

All State Strings Concert

Saturday, 3:00 pm, Concert Hall

Mississippi’s best high school string students present the results of two intensive days of rehearsal and study.  Dr. London Branch is guest conductor.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 2:00 pm.

April 9

Guitar Ensemble Concert

Saturday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall

This concert showcases the best student guitar solos and ensembles.  From earliest music to the latest experimental jazz, there is something for every taste on this eclectic program.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

April 12

Belhaven University and Jackson Community Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensemble and Percussion Ensemble Concert Tuesday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall

Excitement through sound is in store for you as the full range of instrumental timbres, color, and energy flow under the baton of Dr. Paxton Girtmon and Paul Heindl. Complimentary admission.   Doors open at 7:00 pm.

April 14

Composers’ Orchestral Reading Session

Mississippi Museum of Art

Thursday, 5:30 pm, Trustmark Grand Hall

Student composers from Belhaven University and Mississippi College realize the dream of having their compositions read by professional players of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, directed by Maestro Crafton Beck.  Brief discussions of the compositions and the composers’ intentions are part of this positive, engaging, and exploratory session.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 5:00.  Reception following in the Grand Hall.

April 16

Choral and Vocal Arts:  Iberian Romance

Saturday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall

Dr. Christopher Shelt conducts the Belhaven Concert Choir, Chorale, soloists, and small ensembles in an exploration of choral and vocal works written in the Ibero-Romance family of languages, Spanish and Portuguese.  Expect exquisite examples from diverse style periods and countries of origin, including some from the pop idioms.   This colorful concert will feature Jean Berger’s work, A Brazilian Psalm. Complimentary admission. Doors open at 7:00 pm.

April 19

Best of Belhaven II

Tuesday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall

The Music Department presents the most outstanding performances of the semester on one concert.  Musical variety and excellence are the gifts from our student performers to you.  Complimentary admission. Doors open at 7:00 pm.

Nearly all of the aforementioned events will be held in the Belhaven University Center for the Arts on Riverside Drive (across the street from Newell Stadium) in downtown Jackson.  Each event designates whether the event will be held in the Concert Hall or in the Blackbox Theatre.

And, there will be more.  A number of our junior and seniors still hope to present their recitals by graduation.  As soon as they have passed their recital juries, their concert dates can be announced.

To Prospective Students:  the pace of auditions is picking up again as we move towards the end of the semester.  There is still lots of time to finalize your applications and receive scholarship letters prior to advanced registration this summer.  Please work with your admission counselors as you seek to finalize this very important step in your lives.  You may also contact me at the email address below if you have any questions!!!  I want to write your scholarship letter and have you be a part of this very dynamic school that is Belhaven University and our very dynamic department which is Music.

Finally, please continue in prayer for a world that continues to be torn apart by strife, by horrific natural events and by our own fallen natures.  Pray that the Good News of Jesus Christ might be heard by all peoples.  I would especially seek your prayers for Belhaven Music alum Abi LaVallee Lowther who, with her husband and musician Roger Lowther are serving in Tokyo under the auspices of Mission to the World, Inc. (PCA).  Right now, these missionaries who have been using the Arts as a means to gain a way to share the Gospel with many around them in Japan are now on the front lines sharing food and water with those suffering from the devastating earthquake and tsunami.  Roger has personally driven relief trucks into the devastated areas while Abi is leading one of many initiatives in Tokyo to prepare supplies to be sent north.  Thank you for your prayers.

May God Bless You, Glory to God!

Dr. Sachs

Dr. Stephen W. Sachs

Pianist & Music Chair

Belhaven University

ssachs@belhaven.edu

<mailto:ssachs@belhaven.edu(601>(601) 974-6471

(601) 974-6499 fax

http://www.belhaven.edu<https://webmail.belhaven.edu/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.belhaven.edu/>

Be strong and courageous! … The Lord your God will go ahead of you.

Deuteronomy 31:6… Belhaven University 2010-11 Verse of the Year

February 7, 2011

Dear Friends of the Music Department at Belhaven University,

Greetings from Jackson, MS. 

Wow.  What a year 2010-2011 is turning out to be.  We have been truly blessed beyond belief here at Belhaven by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ despite the troubled economic times that our nation has had to endure.  It truly never slows down when you put approximately 70 music majors and 25 music faculty (full time and adjuncts) and staff together and focus on music vocational preparation and performance for the Glory of God.  I wish I was writing to you more often, but this email will bring you back up to speed with much of our latest news, upcoming concerts (including one on Tuesday night) and a look towards next year.  As you read on, please note that current music majors are highlighted by underlining and music faculty are highlighted in italics.

This academic year, two of our violin majors have been turning heads in some lofty arenas.  Out of 139 applicants, Junior Shellie Brown was one of seven accepted into and who competed as a finalist in the National CDA Young Artists Competition for strings held in Washington State in early January.   Being accepted as a finalist at the national level is a major accomplishment.   Shellie was one of two undergraduate students accepted (5 graduate and doctoral candidates also competed representing such fine schools as Oberlin Conservatory, The Cleveland Institute of Music, The Blair School of Music, and others).  Congratulations, Shellie!  Sophomore Jocelyn Zhu was selected as a First Prize Winner in the 2011 American Protégé Music Talent Competition held in New York City and has been invited to perform at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 12, 2011 at the Weill Recital Hall located in Carnegie Hall.  The judges noted her performance had great passion and power.  The invitation for a performance in New York City is a wonderful opportunity for Jocelyn as she looks forward to presenting Sarasate’s “Introduction and Tarantella.”  And this occurred after she performed with the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra on December 6.  Congratulations, Jocelyn!  Both of these fine violinists are part of an exceptional private studio which includes violin and viola majors and minors and is taught by my fine colleague and friend, Mr. Song Xie.

And let’s not forget our vocalists.  Nine of our fine singers participated in the National Association of Teachers of Singing Regional competition held late last fall.  Singers competing included Rachel Gorman, Blakeney Hatcliff, Abigail Johnston, Jensen Kelley, Malcom LaTour, John Mathieu, Lauren Pratt, Tory Senete, and Abby Wiggins.  Of those, six advanced to compete as semi-finalists including John Mathieu (sophomore men); Blakeney Hatcliff (senior women); Abigail Johnston (senior women); Tory Senete (senior women); Rachel Gorman (Lower Musical Theatre Division); Tory Senete (Upper Musical Theatre Division); Malcom LaTour (Upper Musical Theatre Division).   Going even further, freshman Rachel Gorman placed third in the finals of the Lower College Musical Theater Division, hugely impressive for a freshman.  Way to go, Rachel!  Dr. Christopher Shelt, Mrs. Gena Everitt, Ms. Anne Gray and Mrs. Elizabeth Richardson are the private teachers for the students above.

This academic year, the Music Department at Belhaven University has continued to enjoy a steady flow of concerts and recitals.  Students are passing their juries and presenting highly successful programs.  So far this semester Danny Johnston, guitarist (taught by Mr. Dennis Bonds), presented his junior recital on January 15; alumnus Sarah Sachs, pianist, gave us a sneak preview on January 20 of her Master of Music degree recital, later presented at The University of Southern Mississippi; Michael Shofner, guitarist (taught by Mr. Dennis Bonds and Ms. Amy Houghton) and Zachary Stafford, bassist (taught by Mr. Richard Brown) presented their junior recitals together on February 2; Joshua Harton, trumpeter (taught by Mr. Lloyd Turner), passed his senior recital jury and will present his recital sometime in the coming weeks in the Concert Hall, Erin Desmond, pianist (taught by Dr. Stephen Sachs) passed her senior recital jury this evening, while Ellie Honea, pianist (taught by Mrs. Carolyn Sachs), is expected to present her senior recital on March 5 at 2:30 p.m. in the Concert Hall.  Many more students are poised to present juries in the next several weeks.  (Please know that I am especially proud of our juniors and seniors as they present their recitals.  They learn so much during the many months of preparation and practice that lead up to very joyful public performances.  A crucial part of that learning involves relying on our Lord for provision in all aspects of recital preparation and performance.)

I hope you will be able to attend some of the wonderful music making that is occurring during the next month.  Please note these imminent events listed for you below.

February 8

Preston Chamber Music Series

An Evening of Diamonds

Belhaven Piano Trio and Sachs Piano Duo

Tuesday 7:30 pm, Concert Hall

Brahms Piano Trio in C Major, Op. 87 coupled with Bizet’s masterpiece Jeaux d’Enfants, Op. 22 (Children’s Games) and music by P. D. Q. Bach for piano four hands create a delightful evening for your listening pleasure.  A truly special event for all ages.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.  The Belhaven Piano Trio is made up of Mr. Song Xie, violin; Mr. Bennett Randman, cello (Principal Cellist of the MSO); Dr. Stephen Sachs, piano.  The Sachs Piano Duo is comprised of Mrs. Carolyn Sachs, primo and Dr. Stephen Sachs, secondo.

February 10

Jackson Public School All-City Honors Band

Thursday, 7:00 pm, Concert Hall

The Music Department is pleased to host the Jackson Public School’s finest middle school and high school instrumentalists selected to perform in the 2011 JPS All-City Honors Band.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 6:30 pm.  Dr. Paxton Girtmon will be the host for this event. 

February 19

Faculty Recital – Gena Everitt, soprano

Saturday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall 

Brilliant artistry and mature musicianship combine for an outstanding evening of varied vocal literature.  Soprano Mrs. Gena Everitt, is assisted by Mr. Rodney Vaughn, tenor (from Jackson State University), Mr. Song Xie, violin, and Dr. Stephen Sachs, pianist.  An unforgettable treat for the music lover!  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

March 3-5

Musical Theatre

Thursday – Saturday, 7:30 pm, Blackbox Theatre

“The Light in the Piazza” based on the novella by Belhaven graduate Elizabeth Spencer opened on Broadway April 18, 2005.  In this tale of romance, do the eyes of God or the eyes of man provide the value judgment of a human being who is mentally challenged?   Complimentary admission.  Reserved tickets available.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

March 8
Collaborative Arts Concert
Tuesday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall
Faculty and students from the departments of Creative Writing, Dance, Graphic Design, Music, Theatre and Visual Arts will collaborate on an evening of innovative and exploratory arts. Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

All of the aforementioned events will be held in the Belhaven University Center for the Arts on Riverside Drive (across the street from Newell Stadium) in downtown Jackson.  Each event designates whether the event will be held in the Concert Hall or in the Blackbox Theatre. 

Finally – to Prospective Students:  a lot of you have auditioned and have been accepted into the Music Department at Belhaven, some of you have already accepted music scholarships from Belhaven University, and more scholarship letters are going out this week.  There is still lots of time to complete applications, schedule an audition and be offered a music scholarship.  Please work with your admission counselors as you seek to finalize this very important step in your lives.  You may also contact me at the email address below if you have any questions!!!  I want to write your scholarship letter and have you be a part of this very dynamic school that is Belhaven University and our very dynamic department which is Music. 

Until later this semester, May God Bless You, Glory to God!

Dr. Sachs

Dr. Stephen W. Sachs
Pianist & Music Chair
Belhaven University
ssachs@belhaven.edu
(601) 974-6471
(601) 974-6499 fax
http://www.belhaven.edu

Be strong and courageous! … The Lord your God will go ahead of you.

Deuteronomy 31:6… Belhaven University 2010-11 Verse of the Year

November 9, 2010

Dear Friends of the Music Department at Belhaven University,

Here is the 2^nd issue of the Music Department Newsletter for the 2010-2011 academic year, a periodic email update announcing concerts, other events and news of the Music Department at Belhaven University that is intended to be celebrative and informative.  If you know of someone who would appreciate receiving these monthly updates, please send me their email address and I will see that they get future installments of the Newsletter. If you do not wish to receive these emails, please let me know and I will remove your email address from the mailing list. 

Wow, what an opening to this academic year.  I praise the Lord for His bountiful provision in all aspects of our program:  new students, new faculty, exciting new programs for our students to prepare themselves for the marketplace, lots of great learning, and, as always, plenty of wonderful concerts giving evidence of the great tradition of excellence that is one of the primary day-to-day goals of this Music Department.  Celebrate with me as I offer to you what is happening in the days ahead, and recount to you some of what has happened since my last letter to you.  (In the paragraphs that follow, music faculty names are listed in italics while music major student names are underlined.)

Here are our upcoming events as published in the 2010-2011 edition of Arts Ablaze with the addition of junior and senior recitals of those students who have passed their recital juries:

November 9  TONIGHT!

Student Composers Concert VIII

Tuesday, 7:30 pm, Recital Room

The Belhaven Composers Forum invites you to an interactive showcase of engaging new works by Belhaven student composers Skyler Bready, Matthew Forester, Cory Gray, Joshua Harton, Daniel Johnston, Tony Peacock, Lauren Pratt, Libby Roberts, and Michael Shofner.  The program will explore new ways to experience the adventure of music-making as the composers and many other student performers open windows into their creative worlds. Faculty composer Dr. Andrew Sauerwein is your host for this innovative evening.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

November 13

Orchestras and Strings Concert

Saturday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall

Souvenir de Florence by Tchaikovsky and Night on Bald Mountain by Mussorgsky anchor this evening of beautiful and exciting orchestral music and string chamber music.  Mr. Song Xie and Dr. Stephen Sachs raise their batons to conduct some of the finest instrumental musical talents in the state of Mississippi.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

November 19 & 20

Opera Arts:  Two Hilarious American Operas

Friday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall

Saturday, 2:30 pm, Concert Hall (Matinee)

Enjoy two brief American operas, one where the girl gets the boy and the other where the boy gets the girl!  Enjoy Gian Carlo Menotti’s famous “The Telephone” alongside his classic “The Old Maid and the Thief.”  Be prepared to laugh!  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.

November 22

Best of Belhaven I

Monday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall

The Music Department presents the most outstanding performances of the semester on one concert.  Musical variety and excellence are the gifts from our student performers to you.  Complimentary admission. Doors open at 7:00 pm.

November 23

Junior Violin Recitals

Tuesday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall

Junior Violinists Jacqueline Bateman and Shellie Brown have passed their junior recital juries with “flying colors.”  Come hear these wonderful talents present their first of two degree recitals at Belhaven including music by Bach, Barber and Prokofiev. 

December 3 & 4

The 78^th Annual Singing Christmas Tree

Friday and Saturday, 7:30 pm, Soccer Bowl

Bring blankets and chairs to enjoy this special celebration of Christmas music favorites.  Adjunct music faculty member, Mrs. Carolyn Sachs, is the current musical director of this Belhaven tradition. Complimentary admission.

December 5

Choral and Vocal Arts:  Mary Had a Baby

Sunday, 2:30 pm, Concert Hall (Matinee)

Dr. Christopher Shelt conducts The Belhaven Concert Choir, Chorale, soloists, and small ensembles in a delightful afternoon concert of sacred Christmas works.  Enjoy a panorama of worshipful Christmas carols, classics, and spirituals arranged by John Cheetham, Gustav Holst, Ralph Vaughan Williams, Robert Shaw/Alice Parker, and John Rutter.  Complimentary admission. Doors open at 2:00 pm.

“OLD NEWS”

“Show People” – Belhaven Musical Revue & Dessert, an evening of songs, scenes, and steps from some of the best of musical theatre ran November 4-6 and was presented in the McCravey-Triplett Student Center Dining Commons.  Featured students included Alyssa Aycock, Sarah Marie Bravo, Chris Carlson, Andrew Craig, Kathryn Freund, Rachel Gorman, Julie Anna Hettinger, Blakeney Hatcliff, Temperance Jones, Maggie McLinden, Morgan Robertson, Abby Wiggins, and Ellen Wise, The “pit” orchestra included Staff Accompanist Mrs. Nicole Harwell, bassist Josh Lee, and JSU percussion student Tim Scott.  Adjunct Voice Faculty Member Ms. Anne Gray was the vocal coach and consultant for this student run production.  With complimentary admission, and dessert (from Primos Café) and beverage for just $3, it was no surprise that this show played to full houses every night.

And there is so much more to tell.  In the next update, I hope to tell you more about the prospective music students that may be attending Belhaven in 2011-2012, other recitals completed, news from the National Association of Schools of Music, our students in competition, and so much more. 

Final Notes: 

• Who are we?  Here is a listing of our faculty, staff and music majors!

BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC FACULTY AND STAFF

Dr. Stephen Sachs, pianist, chair; Dr. Paxton Girtmon, director of bands, woodwind specialist; Dr. Andrew Sauerwein, composer, theorist; Dr. Christopher Shelt, coordinator of vocal activities, director of choral ensembles, Song Xie, violinist, director of string ensembles; Nancy Bateman, cello adjunct; Dennis Bonds, jazz guitar adjunct; Richard Brown, string bass adjunct; Melvin Champ, assistant band director adjunct; Sybil Cheesman, flute adjunct; Dr. Dennis Cranford, music theory adjunct; Lisa Davis, French horn adjunct; Mark Davis, low brass adjunct; Ken Graves, clarinet adjunct; Carol Durham, organ adjunct; Gena Everitt, vocal adjunct; Dr. Rebecca Geihsler, vocal adjunct; Reca Girtmon, drill team instructor adjunct; Kenneth Graves, clarinet adjunct; Anne Gray, vocal adjunct; Amy Houghton, classical guitar adjunct, director of guitar ensembles;  Paul Heindl, percussion adjunct, director of percussion ensembles; Andrew Lewis, piano adjunct, Randy Mapes, double reed adjunct; Anne Katherine Ragsdale, piano adjunct, Elizabeth Richardson, vocal adjunct; Carolyn Sachs, piano adjunct, Singing Christmas Tree director; Nicole Harwell, staff accompanist; Lloyd Turner, trumpet adjunct; Valerie Tate, admin. assistant 

BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC, OUR MUSIC MAJORS!

Alyssa Aycock, Michael Baker, David Barfield, Bethany Basham, Jacqueline Bateman, Sarah Bravo, Skyler Bready, Jimmy Brown, Shellie Brown, Chris Carlson, Joel Cole, Nicole Colyer, Gina Condly, Andrew Craig, Hannah Cross, Anna Cullnane, Eleana Davis, Hannah Davis, Erin Desmond, Rachel Eason, Brooke Edwards, Hannah Everett, John Farrar, Levi Foreman, Matthew Forester, Rachel Gorman, Cory Gray, Michael Hall, Curtis Harris, Joshua Harton, Eric Hartzog, Blakeney Hatcliff, Amanda Hester, Daniel Hicks, Ellie Honea, Ann Howard, Emmberly Jefferson, Sam Johnson, Abigail Johnston, Daniel Johnston, Temperance Jones, Jensen Kelley, Alicia Kleeves, Malcom LaTour, Joshua Lee,  John Mathieu, Maggie McLinden, Roddy Merritt, Lydia Moore, Joey Nelms, Joshua Nichols, Alex Nitzberg, William Anthony Peacock, Lauren Pratt, Libby Roberts, Morgan Robertson, James Robinson, Kaitlin Rowan, Rebekah Saks, Victoria Senete, Michael Shofner, Zachary Stafford, Stefanie Stoll, Victoria Swilley, Hannah Thomas, Marie Tolliver, Keeyonia Tyler, Megan van der Bijl, Abby Wiggins, Ellen Wise, Jocelyn Zhu, Robert Wesley Zickau

BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC, OUR MAY 2010 GRADUATES!

Sarah Jones, Rachel Reese, Roberta Sachs, Zak Valle, Julia Watkins, James White

Until the next edition, May God Bless You, Glory to God!

Steve

Dr. Stephen W. Sachs
Pianist & Music Chair
Belhaven University
ssachs@belhaven.edu
(601) 974-6471
(601) 974-6499 fax
http://www.belhaven.edu

Be strong and courageous! … The Lord your God will go ahead of you.

Deuteronomy 31:6… Belhaven University 2010-11 Verse of the Year

September 23, 2010

Dear Friends of the Music Department at Belhaven University,

This is the 1st issue of the Music Department Newsletter for the 2010-2011 academic year, a periodic email update announcing concerts, other events and news of the Music Department at Belhaven University that is intended to be celebrative and informative.  If you know of someone who would appreciate receiving these monthly updates, please send me their email address and I will see that they get future installments of the Newsletter. If you do not wish to receive these emails, please let me know and I will remove your email address from the mailing list. 

As always, I open this edition with praise to God for the countless ways His Spirit is working in our lives at Belhaven.  (In the paragraphs that follow, music faculty names are listed in italics while music major student names are underlined.)

Our first concert of the new academic year is to be presented, tomorrow, Friday, September 24 at 7:30 p.m. in the Concert Hall of the Center for the Arts.  This is a not to be missed opening event for the annual Mrs. James R. Preston, Sr. Memorial Chamber Music Series also known as “An Evening of Diamonds.”  Violinist Dr. Stephen Redfield and pianist Dr. Lois Leventhal from the University of Southern Mississippi will present a wonderful recital including music from the first part of the 20^th century by Janáček, Prokofief, and Ravel.  With the economy as it is, our Evening of Diamonds programs will be offered with complimentary admission for everyone.  Doors open at 7 p.m.  And, as is our usual custom, you will be invited to stay for a reception to meet the performers immediately after the performance.  The Center for the Arts is located at 853 Riverside Drive across from Newell Footall Stadium in Jackson, Mississippi.  I do hope you can attend.

Another great entering class of Belhaven Music Majors! Again, the Lord has blessed us with new students beyond what I had hoped for.  Trust in Him for He is good and He blesses those that honor Him.  The Music Department is now the largest that it has ever been with 72 current music majors.  Meet our newest music majors: 

Alyssa Aycock is a vocalist from Brandon, MS.
Joel Cole is a French horn player transferring from Meridian Community College.
Nicole Colyer is a vocalist from Florence, MS.
Gina Condly is a vocalist from Oviedo, FL.
Hannah Davis is a pianist from Gladewater, TX.
Rachel Eason is a violist who transferred into the Music Major this fall.  She is from Huntsville, AL.
Brooke Edwards is a vocalist from Pelahatchie, MS.
Hannah Everett is a vocalist from Morton, MS.
Levi Foreman is a guitarist from who plays football for the Blazers and is from Loxley, AL.
Rachel Gorman is a vocalist from Manhattan, KS.
Cory Gray is a clarinetist who transferred to Belhaven from Hinds Community College.
Curtis Harris is a percussionist coming back to school from Brandon, MS.
Eric Hartzog is a guitarist from Terry, MS.
Jensen Kelley is a vocalist from Madison, MS.
Maggie McLinden is a pianist from Colorado Springs, CO.
Roddy Merritt is a vocalist transferring from Wesley College, MS.
Lydia Moore is a vocalist from Daphne, AL.
Joey Nelms is a guitarist from Pearl, MS.
Joshua Nichols is a pianist transferring from Virginia Commonwealth University.  He is from Mechanicsville, VA and was married to Anna Harbaugh on July 31. 
Alex Nitzberg is a guitarist from Finksburg, MD.
Libby Roberts is a pianist from Ballston Spa, NY.
Morgan Robertson is a vocalist from Brandon, MS.
James Robinson is a vocalist from Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
Katie Rowan is a pianist from Owings, MD.
Rebekah Saks is a pianist from Colorado Springs, CO.
Marie Tolliver is a vocalist from Vicksburg, MS.
Keeyonia Tyler is a clarinetist from Southaven, MS.
Megan van der Bijl is a pianist from Byhalia, MS.
Ellen Wise is a vocalist from Spanwood, WA.
Wes Zickau is a guitarist who transferred into the Music Major this fall and is from Boise, Idaho.

 New faculty and staff have been added to work with our music students.

• Mr. Dennis Bonds is teaching jazz guitar as an adjunct music professor at Belhaven.  He is a very highly regarded performer throughout the southeast US, having been highly successful both as a performing and recording artist.  In addition to his private teaching, Mr. Bonds will also direct the jazz guitar ensemble.   
• Mr. Kenneth Graves is teaching clarinet as an adjunct music professor at Belhaven.  Mr. Graves is the principal clarinetist of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, recently completing his Master of Music degree in clarinet performance.  Please welcome one of our newest faculty members who comes to us from Los Angeles, CA.
• Ms. Amy Houghton is teaching classical guitar as an adjunct music professor at Belhaven.  Ms. Houghton recently completed her Master of Music degree in guitar performance at the University of Southern Mississippi.  It is great to have her on the faculty as she is a Belhaven University alum, completing her Bachelor of Arts in Music degree with an emphasis in Guitar Performance at Belhaven just a few years ago.  In addition to her private teaching, Ms. Houghton directs the Classical Guitar Ensemble and teaches Guitar Fundamentals courses.  Welcome back, Amy!
• Mrs. Anne Katherine Ragsdale returns to the Belhaven University Music Department teaching piano and accompanying as an adjunct music professor.  Mrs. Ragsdale is not a stranger to Belhaven having previously taught in the Music Department and served as Staff Accompanist on different occasions.  I am delighted to welcome her back! 
• Miss Valerie Tate is serving in her first full year with me as the Administrative Assistant for Music at Belhaven University.  Ms. Tate graduated from Belhaven University in December, 2009 with her Bachelor of Arts in Music degree with an emphasis in Vocal Performance.  While a student at Belhaven, Ms. Tate served as a workstudy for the Music Department and excelled in her vocal studies.  This fine soprano was awarded the privilege to sing “O Holy Night” at the top of the Singing Christmas Tree and was a finalist and runner-up in state level contests sponsored by the National Association of Teachers of Singing and the Mississippi Music Teachers Association.   

Please welcome our newest adjunct music faculty members and music staff.  The Belhaven University Music Department has 5 full time and 21 adjunct music faculty as well as 4 music staff.  All of us at Belhaven have been brought together and blessed by the Lord. 

Here are just a few faculty notes from this summer:

• “Belhaven Connections” the missions arm of the Music Department traveled to Japan in May, 2010.  The group was led by Associate Professor of Music Dr. Andrew Mark Sauerwein and adjunct faculty members Mrs. Nancy Bateman and Mr. Richard Brown. Student participants from Belhaven included Jackie Bateman, Shellie Brown, Hannah Cross, Anna Cullnane, Ellie Honea, Alicia Kleeves, Rebeka Larson, Tony Peacock, Hannah Reese and Rachel Reese.  Plans are in the works for a return mission trip to Peru in summer, 2011 to be led by Dr. Christopher Shelt.
• Dr. Andrew Mark Sauerwein, Associate Professor of Music Theory and Composition, traveled to Cincinnati to participate in scoring AP Music tests for the Educational Testing Service.  Congratulations, Andy! 
• Mr. Song Xie had a busy summer!  In May, Mr. Song performed contemporary music at the 2010 Beijing Mordan Music Festival held in Beijing, China.  In June he taught at the Masterworks Festival held at Winona Lake, Indiana also performing in The Masterworks Festival Ensemble premiering Dr. Patrick Kavanaugh’s new composition “The Light and Illumination.”

Here are our upcoming events as published in the 2010-2011 edition of Arts Ablaze:

September 24
Preston Chamber Music Series
An Evening of Diamonds
Dr. Stephen Redfield, guest violinist; Dr. Lois Leventhal, guest pianist
jFriday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall
University of Southern Mississippi Professor of Violin Dr. Stephen Redfield and pianist Dr. Lois Leventhal perform Leoš Janáček’s Sonata for Violin and Piano, Sergei Prokofiev’s Five Melodies for Violin and Piano, Op. 35b and Sonata for Violin and Piano by Maurice Ravel. Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm. 

September 30
Preston Chamber Music Series
An Evening of Diamonds
Sylvia Hong, guest pianist
Thursday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall
Award winning Korean pianist extraordinaire Sylvia Hong recently debuted at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.  Come hear polished pianism in what promises to be an outstanding recital.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm. 

October 2
Music Department Pops Concert
Saturday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall
A panorama of popular favorites—movie themes, jazz, Broadway, and light classics–awaits your ears as the entire Belhaven University Department of Music entertains during the Homecoming weekend.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm. 

October 26
String and Chamber Master Class
Peter Slowik, guest violist
Tuesday, 3:00-6:00 pm, Recital Room
Professor of Viola and Director of The String Division of Oberlin Conservatory of Music, Peter Slowik, coaches violinists, violists, and chamber ensembles in creative and dynamic music making.  Informative and inspiring.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 2:30 pm. 

November 4-6
“Show People” – Belhaven Musical Revue & Dessert
Thursday – Saturday, 7:30 pm
McCravey – Triplett Student  Center, Dining Commons
An evening of songs, scenes, and steps from some of the best of musical theatre.  Complimentary admission, dessert $3.  Doors open at 7:00 pm.
 
November 9
Student Composers Concert VIII
Tuesday, 7:30 pm, Recital Room
The Belhaven Composers Forum invites you to an interactive showcase of engaging new works by Belhaven student composers. The program will explore new ways to experience the adventure of music-making as the composers and performers open windows into their creative worlds. Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm. 

November 13
Orchestras and Strings Concert
Saturday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall
Souvenir de Florence by Tchaikovsky and Night on Bald Mountain by Mussorgsky anchor this evening of beautiful and exciting orchestral music.  String solos and chamber ensembles complete the evening’s offerings.  Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm. 

November 19 & 20
Opera Arts:  Two Hilarious American Operas
Friday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall
Saturday, 2:30 pm, Concert Hall (Matinee)
Enjoy two brief American operas, one where the girl gets the boy and the other where the boy gets the girl!  Enjoy Gian Carlo Menotti’s famous “The Telephone” alongside his classic “The Old Maid and the Thief.”Complimentary admission.  Doors open at 7:00 pm. 

November 22
Best of Belhaven I
Monday, 7:30 pm, Concert Hall
The Music Department presents the most outstanding performances of the semester on one concert.  Musical variety and excellence are the gifts from our student performers to you.  Complimentary admission. Doors open at 7:00 pm. 

December 3 & 4
The 78^th Annual Singing Christmas Tree
Friday and Saturday, 7:30 pm, Soccer Bowl
Bring blankets and chairs to enjoy this special celebration of Christmas music favorites.  Adjunct music faculty member, Mrs. Carolyn Sachs, is the current musical director of this Belhaven tradition. Complimentary admission.

December 5
Choral and Vocal Arts:  Mary Had a Baby
Sunday, 2:30 pm, Concert Hall (Matinee)
Dr. Christopher Shelt conducts The Belhaven Concert Choir, Chorale, soloists, and small ensembles in a delightful afternoon concert of sacred Christmas works.  Enjoy a panorama of worshipful Christmas carols, classics, and spirituals arranged by John Cheetham, Gustav Holst, Ralph Vaughan Williams, Robert Shaw/Alice Parker, and John Rutter.  Complimentary admission. Doors open at 2:00 pm. 

Final Notes: 

• Who will come in the Spring of 2011, or Fall of 2011?  It is not too early to look ahead to next year. Already many prospective students have made inquiries about our programs and audition procedures.  This continues to be an exciting, dynamic time to be at Belhaven University in Music.  Momentum continues to build that has our students excited about what they are doing in preparing for vocations in the Arts.  My faculty and I praise the Lord for his bountiful blessing of Music at Belhaven.  If you know someone who is interested in attending Belhaven next year, that student needs to apply to Belhaven and complete a music audition before a scholarship award letter can be written.  The application is easy and can be done online at www.belhaven.edu.  Go to “Admission” via “Quick Links.”  Prospective students may contact me at ssachs@belhaven.edu to set up an audition.  Auditions for prospective music majors include performances of three compositions or movements of compositions representing at least two contrasting style periods, two scales of the student’s choice (instrumentalists only), and a short excerpt of a composition to be sight read.  The Annual Arts Discovery Day is set for October 29.  During that day, the Arts departments of Belhaven provide tours of facilities, set up opportunities for faculty to meet with prospective students and their parents, arrange for these same students to sit in on music classes, hold auditions, and attend an evening music concert that is “just for them.”  Contact us now to be a part of this special weekend.  I continue to praise the Lord for leading many fine young musicians and scholars to consider Belhaven as their home for study within a Christ-centered learning environment where musical excellence is pursued by faculty and students.  Praise the Lord!!!
• Associate Professor of Music Dr. Paxton Girtmon and the Belhaven University Marching Band will soon be outfitted in new uniforms. 
• The National Association of Schools of Music recently approved Belhaven University Music Department’s proposed Bachelor of Arts in Music Education degree with an emphasis in Instrumental Music.  Students may also receive a Bachelor of Arts in Music with a choice of six different emphases including Collaborative Piano and Pedagogy, Composition, Music Ministries, Musical Theatre, Performance, and Vocal Pedagogy and Pre-Professional Choral Conducting.   
• Pianist Ellie Honea was accepted today by Mission to the World for a two year mission assignment to Japan beginning next summer. 
• Violinist Anna Cullnane passed her junior recital jury today and will present her Junior Recital in the Concert Hall of the Center for the Arts on October 19, 2010. 
• Guitarist Josh Lee passed his senior recital jury and will present his Senior Recital in the near future!
• A number of other students will be presenting recital juries during the next days, weeks and months including Jackie Bateman, Shellie Brown, Christopher Carlson, Erin Desmond and Joshua Harton, Ann Howard, Daniel Johnston, Michael Shofner and Zach Stafford. 
• MUSIC ALUMNI NEWS:  Rachel Center is a key administrator with the Masterworks Festival; Rachel Reese is teaching in Trujillo, Peru as part of a Mission to the World approved missions assignment; Megan Russ is studying at Leeds University in Great Britain working towards an Historical String Performance Diploma.  Other alumni, please send us your news.
• Who are we?  Here is a listing of our faculty, staff and music majors!

BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC FACULTY AND STAFF

Dr. Stephen Sachs, pianist, chair; Dr. Paxton Girtmon, director of bands, woodwind specialist; Dr. Andrew Sauerwein, composer, theorist; Dr. Christopher Shelt, coordinator of vocal activities, director of choral ensembles, Song Xie, violinist, director of string ensembles; Nancy Bateman, cello adjunct; Dennis Bonds, jazz guitar adjunct; Richard Brown, string bass adjunct; Melvin Champ, assistant band director adjunct; Sybil Cheesman, flute adjunct; Dr. Dennis Cranford, music theory adjunct; Lisa Davis, French horn adjunct; Mark Davis, low brass adjunct; Ken Graves, clarinet adjunct; Carol Durham, organ adjunct; Gena Everitt, vocal adjunct; Dr. Rebecca Geihsler, vocal adjunct; Reca Girtmon, drill team instructor adjunct; Kenneth Graves, clarinet adjunct; Anne Gray, vocal adjunct; Amy Houghton, classical guitar adjunct, director of guitar ensembles;  Paul Heindl, percussion adjunct, director of percussion ensembles; Andrew Lewis, piano adjunct, Randy Mapes, double reed adjunct; Anne Katherine Ragsdale, piano adjunct, Elizabeth Richardson, vocal adjunct; Carolyn Sachs, piano adjunct, Singing Christmas Tree director; Nicole Harwell, staff accompanist; Lloyd Turner, trumpet adjunct; Valerie Tate, admin. assistant

BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC, OUR MUSIC MAJORS!

Alyssa Aycock, Michael Baker, David Barfield, Bethany Basham, Jacqueline Bateman, Sarah Bravo, Skyler Bready, Jimmy Brown, Shellie Brown, Chris Carlson, Joel Cole, Nicole Colyer, Gina Condly, Andrew Craig, Hannah Cross, Anna Cullnane, Eleana Davis, Hannah Davis, Erin Desmond, Rachel Eason, Brooke Edwards, Hannah Everett, John Farrar, Levi Foreman, Matthew Forester, Rachel Gorman, Cory Gray, Michael Hall, Curtis Harris, Joshua Harton, Eric Hartzog, Blakeney Hatcliff, Amanda Hester, Daniel Hicks, Ellie Honea, Ann Howard, Emmberly Jefferson, Sam Johnson, Abigail Johnston, Daniel Johnston, Temperance Jones, Jensen Kelley, Alicia Kleeves, Malcom LaTour, Joshua Lee,  John Mathieu, Maggie McLinden, Roddy Merritt, Lydia Moore, Joey Nelms, Joshua Nichols, Alex Nitzberg, William Anthony Peacock, Lauren Pratt, Libby Roberts, Morgan Robertson, James Robinson, Kaitlin Rowan, Rebekah Saks, Victoria Senete, Michael Shofner, Zachary Stafford, Stefanie Stoll, Victoria Swilley, Hannah Thomas, Marie Tolliver, Keeyonia Tyler, Megan van der Bijl, Abby Wiggins, Ellen Wise, Jocelyn Zhu, Robert Wesley Zickau

BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC, OUR MAY 2010 GRADUATES!

Sarah Jones, Rachel Reese, Roberta Sachs, Zak Valle, Julia Watkins, James White

Until next month, May God Bless You, Glory to God!

Steve

Dr. Stephen W. Sachs
Pianist & Music Chair
Belhaven University
ssachs@belhaven.edu
(601) 974-6471
(601) 974-6499 fax
http://www.belhaven.edu

Be strong and courageous! … The Lord your God will go ahead of you.

Deuteronomy 31:6… Belhaven University 2010-11 Verse of the Year