On Feb. 22, the University of Redlands Conservatory of Music held the 42nd annual President’s Honor Recital, a showcase of the Conservatory’s most talented students.
This year, there were seven performers: Derrick Williams ‘25, Jair Lopez ‘24, Mathew Tashima ‘24, Ethan Vo ‘26, Alexandra Muyshondt ‘24, Christopher Figueroa ‘23, ‘25, and Jezreel Sanchez ‘23, ‘25.
The recital began with a short word by University President Krista Newkirk, who talked about the history of the event. She was followed by Dr. Joe Modica, co-director of the School of Performing Arts and director of the Conservatory of Music. He introduced each performer as they took their turn. Gratitude to Professor of Orchestral Studies, Co Nguyen, for her involvement in putting the event together, was also given.
Some pieces performed during the concert included Andrew Thomas’ “Merlin for solo marimba”, and the third movement of Felix Mendolssohn’s Violin Concerto No. 2.
“I really enjoyed it,“ said performer Christopher Figueroa, a flute performance graduate student. “I had a lot of fun and I loved the crowd that came out to see us tonight.” Figueroa’s sentiment was shared by both other performers and the audience alike, with many audience members staying after the concert to congratulate the performers and enjoy the reception that followed.
A particularly interesting moment during Matt Tashima’s performance of “Merlin,” by composer Andrew Thomas for solo marimba, occurred when the boiler that heats the Chapel began to make loud clanging noises, reverberating throughout the hall. Tashima continued his performance, ignoring the ruckus that continuously interrupted the piece’s melodious lines. At the end of his performance, Dr. Modica applauded the percussionist’s mental fortitude against the distraction, and further interruptions were prevented.
The President’s Honor Recital, an annual event established by Artist Professor Louanne Long in 1983, is a showcase of student talent. Performers can gain the opportunity to perform in the recital via juries and auditions held in December and January. Any student taking applied lessons in the Conservatory are allowed to audition. The recital is free to attendees.
This year’s recital can be viewed online here.
Photo by Hayleigh Yeoh.
Kae Yeoh is a junior majoring in music performance and is a senior reporter for the Redlands Bulldog. When not busy, Kae enjoys writing, making Spotify playlists, and watching documentaries.
