Under the new system, student booking agents are hired to find gigs for entertainers. These agents contact organizations and venues to book shows for their clients, and gain hands-on experience in the music business industry.

“We give music business students the opportunity to act in a real world environment,” said Kurtis Dickerson, a junior marketing major and vice president of business affairs for Orangehaus Entertainment. “They work closely with the artists, making sure that their image is being correctly portrayed. Artists can now work with an agent to learn how the industry functions and what is required of them in a real world scenario.”

Because many of the artists lack a fan base in the Indianapolis area, Orangehaus Entertainment works to create a strong foundation and following for the artists. Venues start in small locations such as Monon Coffee in Indianapolis, Ind., or Be Here Now in Muncie, Ind. As the artist’s popularity grows, concerts are booked in more prestigious Indianapolis locations such as the Earth House Collective or the Irving Theatre. The agents, as well as Orangehaus Entertainment, receive a small percentage of every show’s profits.

“Orangehaus Entertainment is centered around assisting artists with booking shows and promotion,” said Meaghan Hines, a senior music business major and vice president of marketing for the company. “We take on Orangehaus Records’ currently signed artists, as well as artists that are not signed.” The agency currently represents five artists: Tyler Fields, Michael Tomlinson, Joshua Powell, Greg Hojnacki, and Rob Krosley.

“Orangehaus Entertainment has expanded my horizons and given me the opportunities to play at new venues,” said Hojnacki, a junior marketing major. “This includes several venues in the Broadripple, Muncie, and Indianapolis areas.”

The recent expansion was developed under the supervision of Dr. Rebecca Chappell, director of music business studies and Orangehaus faculty adviser. Chappell believed that students would benefit from the creation of a separate entity that allowed students to gain experience in the booking side of the music industry.

According to Chappell, this development was made possible by the Coleman Entrepreneurial Fellows Program grant through the Falls School of Business.

“The Falls School of Business made a strategic commitment to encourage entrepreneurial activity both within the school of business and across campus,” said Chappell. “The program goal was to identify and engage faculty across campus to develop new courses or modify existing ones to integrate entrepreneurial concepts.”

Orangehaus Entertainment is currently seeking more artists and agents for the program. For more information, contact Kurtis Dickerson at kedickerson@anderson.edu.

— Kelly Gualdoni is a junior from Fort Wayne, Ind., majoring in communication arts. Gualdoni is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

The 24,000-square-foot, $4 million project is expected to be completed this summer with ground breaking having taken place May 5. [Photo on left: Construction continues on the York Performance Hall and Galleries project on the Anderson University campus. Workers have begun installing prefabricated walls.]

“It is very exciting,” Williams said of the project. “It is going to a be a space that will be acoustically superior giving a proper performance space to our music students, faculty and guest artists to showcase their art and performances. It is a truly wonderful addition to the campus.”

The building will also support a special art gallery space for the Warner Sallman art collection that includes depictions of Christ as well as a special wood art collection donated by the York family featuring Binh Pho, a renowned wood artist, Williams said.

View a slideshow of images of the construction project on the York Performance Hall and Galleries website.

—Abbey Doyle is a reporter for The Herald Bulletin. Photo credit: John P. Cleary. Story republished with permission.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

In September, Chappell attended the Experiential Classroom XII Conference in Stillwater, Okla., which focused on teaching professors to be great entrepreneurship educators. “I never really thought of myself as an entrepreneur before, but it was pointed out to me that I started Orangehaus Records, Orangehaus Publishing, Orangehaus Entertainment, Orangehaus music business camp and that I even teach a class called ‘Beyond Talent: Entrepreneurship for Musicians,’” said Chappell.

By starting these programs, she helps students apply the skills they learn to real-life situations. Junior music business major Victoria Hall said, “I definitely see her as an entrepreneur because she is always looking for ways to make the programs here profitable and help us to learn at the same time.”

“[Chappell] is very vivacious and fun to be around. People like her in the AU community because she helps students feel comfortable in the classroom,” said Hall. “Her teaching style is very effective because she uses a lot of resources. Seeing examples of what’s going on today in the music business helps us to apply what we learn. She also recognizes talent and helps those people to rise where they need to be.”

Music was a huge part of Chappell’s childhood. “My father was a songwriter, and both of my parents were musicians,” said Chappell. “They had great talent but they didn’t really understand how to make money from their talent, so when I decided I wanted to work full time in the music industry, I wanted to learn ways to teach others how to make a living in music.”

Debbi Brock, assistant professor of business and entrepreneurship in the Falls School of Business, agreed that business skills are important for everyone to learn. “If you’re a music major, art major, dance major, you’re going to be running your own business. Most people don’t work for a company their entire lives,” she said. “You have to learn how to manage your income, finances and career and learn how to market yourself.”

After Chappell decided to attend the four-day conference, she applied for several scholarships to cover expenses, and in September she found herself at Oklahoma State University, ready to learn. “I love that she will take time to go to events like this and learn new things. It creates great opportunities for her,” said Brock.

Out of the nearly 80 professors who attended, less than a handful of teachers did not work in a school of business, including Chappell. “They’ve been trying to open it up and get more involvement from other disciplines because their philosophy is that every discipline should teach entrepreneurship,” said Chappell. “I find that musicians are natural entrepreneurs because entrepreneurship involves creativity and musicians are naturally creative. So I think it works well for that discipline.”

Chappell and the other professors spent the first two days learning about teaching case studies and the Socratic Method. This encourages critical thinking on the students’ part and uses a lot of questioning to come up with the right answer. “I have never used case teaching in my discipline because, outside of entertainment law, there are no case studies for music business. So this idea was foreign to me,” said Chappell. “I wanted to learn how to do it because I thought it was an interesting approach to teaching.”

After learning the new method, delegates divided into two different groups: one group entered the teaching competition and the other entered the curriculum competition, with Chappell taking on the teaching challenge. Bright and early on Saturday morning, Chappell taught her assigned lesson to 20 Oklahoma State University business students and two faculty members, who scored eight different aspects of her lesson using a 1-6 rating scale. The combined scores of the students and faculty members determined who won the award.

The case study assigned to Chappell was about the Intellefit. The Intellefit was a glass booth that customers walked into to have their exact measurements determined so they knew what size clothes would be appropriate for them. Stores like David’s Bridal, Gap, Levi and Macy’s used this technology. The Intellefit is now being used in airports as a full body scanner that checks for weapons and potentially harmful substances. “I had to explain the Intellefit and try to get the students to figure out if it was a good opportunity or a good business concept,” said Chappell. “I asked them to summarize the case, and I asked them a series of questions about it to get them to determine the answer for themselves.”

Even though she had never taught a case study before, Chappell captivated her audience. All of the students gave her between a 5.4 and a 5.9 for all eight of the components they graded her on. The comments she received from them were all very positive: they said her presentation was very engaging, she did a great job of reinforcing key learning points derived from the case, and that it was a great way to explain a topic. These scores, combined with the teacher ratings, placed her at the number one slot for outstanding case teaching.

On Sunday morning of the conference, Chappell received a certificate for the “Outstanding Case Teaching Award.” She was shocked to hear that she won. “I didn’t think I would win!” she said. “I’ve never taught case study before. It’s not a part of my discipline, and I was very intimidated by all of these people from prestigious schools who taught case study all the time in their classrooms.”

Even though she won’t only use case study methods in her classes, the conference still taught her an important lesson. “I’m less preoccupied with content now and more about the implications of that content on music business. For example, if I asked a student to give me an explanation of copyright for published works, another student could Google that and get the answer on their phone before the student could answer. They have a wealth of information at their fingertips,” said Chappell. “So what is my role as a teacher? I need to teach them to ask the question, ‘How does the fact that copyright duration is life plus 70 years promote or prohibit the creation of new works?’ That’s the question they should ask, so it’s those things that I now try to figure out.”

— Alyssa Applegate is a senior from Dayton, Ohio, majoring in communication arts and minoring in Spanish. Applegate is an associate withFifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

“Candles and Carols is a wonderful musical experience that ushers in the Christmas season for many of us,” said Dr. James L. Edwards, president of Anderson University. “It shares the beauty and vibrancy of our music with an audience of all ages, and with the world. The message of the evening is always one of hope, peace, and joy.”

“It is a pleasure for us to give this gift to the Anderson community which faithfully supports us each year. Although it is only a small token of appreciation, I know it will be an enjoyable and memorable evening,” said Dr. Jeffrey E. Wright, dean of the Anderson University College of the Arts. More than 250 AU students from the School of Music will participate during the service, including the Chamber Orchestra directed by Gert Kumi and Kyung-Nam Oh; Chorale, and Men’s Choir, directed by Dr. Richard Sowers; the Women’s Chorus, directed by Joani Brandon; the Wind Ensemble, directed by Dr. Susan Taylor; and the Dance Ensemble, choreographer, Roberta Wong.

The audience will have the opportunity to participate in the program through congregational singing and the candle lighting ceremony at the conclusion of the evening.

Anderson University’s Covenant Productions^® will tape and distribute the event to television stations nationwide. The program will air through December on stations affiliated with the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), independent regional networks, and national affiliates. To view an updated schedule, visit the online TV schedule. This schedule will be updated before and after the production as station information becomes available. Covenant Productions^® will also produce a DVD and CD of the program. DVDs are $16 each and CDs are $12 each. An order form is available online. Orders may also be placed by calling the School of Music at (765) 641-4542.

Candles and Carols is a free concert with general seating. For more information, contact the AU School of Music at (765) 641-4542.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Professors Gert Kumi and Kyung-Nam Oh serve as co-directors for the string chamber ensemble in concert. Kumi started playing the violin at the age of eight in his native country of Albania. He immigrated to the United States and was accepted at the Juilliard School in New York City as a scholarship student of Stephen Clapp. He graduated from Juilliard with his master’s degree in 2003. Kumi has performed across the United States, Europe, China, South Korea, and Africa.

Kyung-Nam Oh was born in Seoul, South Korea. Oh is currently an adjunct cello faculty member at Anderson University. He has served as the director of the Master’s Youth Orchestra and the MYO Young Artist’s Competition. Oh holds a master’s degree from Ball State University and a performance diploma from Indiana University. He is currently completing his Doctor of Arts degree in music at Ball State University.

“The Chamber Orchestra’s fall concert will reflect the growth within Anderson University’s string program. You will not want to miss this wonderful afternoon of chamber music,” said Dr. Jeffrey Wright, dean of the College of the Arts.

The concert is free and open to the public.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

“We are pleased to make this strategic appointment at this time in the life of the university,” said Dr. James L. Edwards, president of Anderson University. “This title is appropriate to her comprehensive role and her leadership. Dr. Morris is highly regarded on campus and in the wider academic community.”

In her role as provost, Morris will provide leadership and vision for internal functions of the university developing collaborative relationships between university programs, departments, and divisions. Along with the president, the provost assists in representing the university to various constituent groups: church, community, and education. The provost serves in place of the president in the president’s absence.

In March of 2009, Morris was named vice president for academic affairs and dean at Anderson University. She is only the sixth person to serve in the role. She previously served as vice president and undergraduate academic dean at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Va.

While at Eastern Mennonite University (EMU), Morris served as a faculty member in the Nursing Department, chair of the Nursing Department, Honors Program director, self-study director for EMU’s reaccreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools, associate academic dean, and vice president and undergraduate academic dean.

Morris earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Eastern Mennonite University, a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Virginia, and a Ph.D. in nursing administration from George Mason University. Her dissertation was entitled, Voices of Women: A Qualitative Study of Effective Female Nurse Faculty.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Ever since she was young, Shoemaker has taken advantage of every opportunity she could to gain experience and knowledge. Her parents are both teachers, so the Auburn, Ind., native grew up in the elementary classroom. “I’ve always had a passion for kids, but then I got really involved in high school music and decided I would combine my two loves of music and education,” said Shoemaker. [Photo on left: Kayla Shoemaker receives her award certificate from MaryAnn Fritz, coordinator of the IMEA conference.]

In February 2010, Shoemaker heard about the Indiana Music Educators Association scholarship from two of her professors, Dr. Susan Taylor and Professor Joani Brandon. Only one AU student is nominated each year for the scholarship — someone who goes “above and beyond” — and only one person throughout the state wins the scholarship each year.

“It is an honor that travels with the student on their résumé as being the one person who was chosen for this, so we really try to think of somebody who has a good chance of getting that,” said Brandon.

The lengthy application process included two professor recommendations, an essay on Shoemaker’s musical background experience, her philosophy on music education, and why she wants to become a music teacher. The criteria considered were strong academics, leadership in chapter organizations, and additional work with children or children’s programs beyond the applicant’s college requirements.

Shoemaker easily met all of these requirements. She is currently the president of AU’s student chapter of the National Association for Music Education, which participates in fundraising and attends various music education workshops throughout the year. She is also the children’s choir director at Central Christian Church in Anderson. Shoemaker spent several summers in charge of the music for vacation Bible school camps. Last summer, she worked as a counselor for AU’s music education camp for high school students. The camp consisted of workshops on conducting, aural skills, leadership seminars, and other activities so that students could get a glimpse of what being a music educator is all about.

Last summer, Shoemaker also worked in the School of Music as an office assistant for the Master of Music Education program and sat in on various training sessions. “We have six intense weeks with guest faculty from all over the country and she was working with us with all the different teachers that come in. We have over 100 teachers that come in to take classes,” said Brandon.

“Those teachers were very impressed by her and what she had to offer,” added Taylor.

Several factors made Shoemaker stand out above her competition, both at AU and statewide. One was her level of passion and dedication during a practicum for her elementary music education methods course. For this practicum, 50-75 homeschooled students, ranging from pre-school to age 11, came in once a week. The AU students taught them and worked closely with them.

“We’re looking for somebody who has a real passion, not for chorale or band or orchestra, but someone who really loves elementary general music and will do really well with that,” said Brandon. “Watching Kayla work in the homeschool situation really encouraged us to choose her. She was outstanding in that.”

Another deciding factor was Shoemaker’s passion. “She is, first and foremost, incredibly bright. She just has that teacher personality. When you watch her work with kids, she has a real connection with them,” said Taylor. “You look at a student like Kayla who is taking advantage of all kinds of opportunities to better herself, and not just because it’s a requirement or something she has to do. She has a real passion and sincere interest and is preparing to be a good teacher.”

Shoemaker attributes some of her success to her professors. “Professor Brandon and Dr. Taylor are two professors who have been very essential in my education. But I could honestly list the entire music faculty because I think all of them in general have been such a supportive family through all of this. They’ve all contributed in some way or another.”

What is the main reason behind all of Shoemaker’s hard work and activities? It all boils down to her own philosophy of music education. “I want to use music. I don’t want to necessarily just teach music,” said Shoemaker. “I want to use music for kids to grow, learn, and discover.”

— Alyssa Applegate is a senior from Dayton, Ohio, majoring in communication arts and minoring in Spanish. Applegate is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2011, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the eighth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

If that doesn’t seem like enough of a challenge, she acts the part of seven different characters in “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

“I keep running backstage, changing costumes, and running back out a different person,” said Sands during a phone interview between rehearsals. “A couple of them are pretty stressful. I even have to rip off my wig.”

[Photo: Meaghan Sands stars as the Blue Fairy, along with Danny Kingston as the main character, in “Pinocchio, ”playing through Nov. 19 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis.]

Since graduating with a degree in voice performance in December, Sands has spent a good deal of time on the stage. In addition to her work at Beef & Boards, she has also performed with the Indianapolis Opera in the productions of “La Traviata” and “Madama Butterfly.”

“I really want to blur the lines between genres,” she said. “Some people think it’s important to be specific in your type of genre, but I would like to do everything. I would like to sing opera and soul in the same song.”

This versatility serves her well as she shifts gears between her many characters in the classic “It’s a Wonderful Life,” which runs through Nov. 20, and her role as the Blue Fairy in “Pinocchio,” which ends Nov. 19.

Originally from northern New York state (about 20 minutes from the Canadian border), Sands was drawn to this area after a car accident interrupted her dance major at a state school. A friend beckoned her to the Hoosier state, where she found a home at AU.

Although she plans to return to New York eventually, she is currently enjoying her work in Indiana and her home in Anderson.

“I really like it here right now, and I am learning a lot from these experiences,” she said. “There are some fine actors right here, and I’m always a student. I’m always watching somebody.”

With 11 performances each week, she is quickly chalking up experience points. And, when she needs a little extra encouragement, her professors are nearby and willing to help.

“I feel like they are family now,” she said. “When you go back to Anderson University, that’s how everybody is — like family. I made arrangements to continue to take voice from Fritz Robertson and Laurel Goetzinger, and they helped me develop some of the lines in the show that felt unnatural.”

Knowing this kind of support is nearby, her plans of traveling to New York or Chicago are distant and hazy. Still she is confident that she has chosen the perfect career.

“It’s what I love,” she said. “There’s nothing I’d rather do than this. This is the best thing I could have hoped for.”

— Emma Bowen Meyer for The Herald Bulletin. Reposted with permission.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

And at 7:30 p.m. today, he will perform at the AU homecoming concert at Park Place Church of God, 501 College Drive, and receive the 2011 Outstanding Music Alumni Award.

Coolidge, who graduated from AU in 1987 with a Bachelor of Arts in applied music, said he was asked to come back and play in the early 1990s.

“It was a lot of fun thing then, but the chance to do this and actually be granted an honor like this is quite humbling,” he said. “I’m looking forward to doing it again and having a lot of fun with the kids.”

Growing up in Anderson with a music director of a father, and after seeing some of the trumpet players with his church choir, Coolidge said he wanted to play.

He began in the third or fourth grade, earlier than elementary schools typically offer band, and went on to perform in middle school, high school and college, playing a variety of groups and styles.

“That probably planted some seeds as to what I am doing now as far as variety goes,” he said.

When looking at colleges, the opportunity to go to a bigger school did present itself, but Coolidge said he hadn’t quite committed to music enough to want to leave town.

“The four years being kind of a big fish in a small pond really helped cement my love for the music,” he said, “and wanting to make a career out of it.”

With less pressure and more opportunities, he began to realize performing was what he wanted to do with the rest of his life.

“The more I played and the more I participated in different groups, the more interested I became,” he said.

He remembers doing a musical in Reardon Auditorium shortly after it opened.

After completing graduate school at Indiana University and spending 11 years performing with Disney, Coolidge and his wife moved to Phoenix, where he said he has the chance to approach other opportunities instead of being tied to one job.

“It was refreshing to be able to answer the phone and, no matter what the time or job, being able to say ‘Yeah, I’ll be there. No problem, I’ll be there. I’ll do it.’”

As a freelancer, Coolidge keeps busy with a large variety of performances, including some high profile acts like playing back-up for celebrities passing through town, doing “pretty much anything and everything,” he said.

“A real highlight is being able to play with some of the best players in the world, to rub elbows with them and swap stories,” Coolidge said of working with trumpet greats like Bobby Shew.

While in Anderson, Coolidge said he plans to spend time with his parents, who still live here, and visit with friends from close-by.

—Dani Palmer is a reporter for The Herald Bulletin. Story republished with permission.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Born in Anderson, Ind., Coolidge graduated from Anderson Uni­versity in 1987 with a Bachelor of Arts in applied music. He went on to earn a Master of Music in trumpet performance from Indi­ana University and in 1989 began an 11-year career at Walt Disney World, performing with EPCOT’s renowned ensemble Future Corps.

Since moving to Arizona in 2000, Coolidge has become an active freelance musician in Phoenix and a “first-call” trumpet with artists ranging from The Temptations to Mannheim Steamroller. He performs with Broadway musicals, touring celebrity acts, local big bands, church orchestras, Top-40/R&B/Latin bands, chamber brass groups, and studio recording sessions.

The Homecoming Concert on Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. in Park Place Church of God is free and open to the public.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Crawshaw was a family science and psychology major who took his first dance class during his freshman year of college. He began with a basic jazz course and then auditioned for the school musical Carousel.

After seeing his talent in the musical, Laurel Goetzinger, associate professor of music, and Doug King, dance instructor, encouraged Crawshaw to pursue a dance minor. “I saw something in him that reminded me of myself,” said King. “He was built for dance. He took to it very well and he enjoyed it, so we pushed him to learn the proper technique. I saw a real potential in him.”

Crawshaw declared a dance minor during his sophomore year. He was also awarded a full scholarship to the summer intensive program of the Jordan Academy of Dance at Butler University. During that experience Crawshaw discovered his true passion for dance. “After that summer I tried to be in every technique class of all levels ranging from ballet, modern and jazz, to tap and musical theatre,” he said.

Throughout the next two years, Crawshaw became a common face on the AU stage. Performing in AU shows such as “Spring into Dance,” “Candles and Carols,” “Fall into Dance,” and various operas and musicals, Crawshaw became known for his talent. “As a dance partner he was strong as well as gentle,” said fellow AU dancer Kimmie Icenogle. “I admire Phillip most for his sense of drive and motivation.”

During his junior year, Crawshaw found himself with a dilemma: should he pursue his dance career or his master’s degree in counseling? He decided to pursue both options by auditioning and applying for grad schools. “I always had a great support system from all of my dance professors to pursue counseling in graduate school and all of my family science and psychology professors to pursue dancing professionally,” said Crawshaw.

After graduating, Crawshaw decided to pursue his master’s degree. But after one semester in graduate school, he decided to return to the stage. “Once I was away from dance, I truly believed that dance was what I should be doing right now,” said Crawshaw. “Although getting my master’s is still a huge goal for me, I will continue that when I decide to retire from dance.”

During the audition process for GHDT, Crawshaw found himself struggling. He was disappointed that he was not picking up the choreography right away. He was, however, contacted by the company’s founder and lead choreographer, Gregory Hancock. “Gregory said he saw something that was moldable and he could see me growing and learning a lot from being in the company,” said Crawshaw.

Crawshaw is now one of two male dancers in the GHDT company. GHDT is a professional contemporary dance company that combines several styles of dance to create a unique style and a deep sense of emotion. According to the company’s mission statement, GHDT is a “professional form of dance dedicated to the exploration and presentation of thought-provoking issues with the ability to transcend the barriers that divide our world. We strive to enlighten, educate, and entertain audiences of all ages.” Crawshaw is now an active member in many of the company productions including Seven Deadly Sins, Salome, and Hunchback of Notre Dame.

“I truly thank God for my dance experiences at AU,” said Crawshaw. “With the classes being small, the professors could work individually with me and the other students. Through all of the pain, blood, sweat, and tears, I would not give up the knowledge and strength I gained from AU.”

— Kelly Gualdoni is a junior from Fort Wayne, Ind., majoring in communication arts. Gualdoni is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

“I Love a Piano” rolls through dozens of Berlin hits in a breezy 95 minutes that covers all of Berlin’s bases. Most are in pleasing medleys with some standout performances from members of AU’s chorale departments, all under keen pacing from director Laurel Goetzinger and conductor David Duncan.

The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. today with 2:30 p.m. matinees on Saturday and Sunday at Boze Lyric Theatre. It also shows Oct. 7-9.

Throughout, there are general themes, like the three guys comically getting dressed in front of mirrors for “Steppin’ Out with My Baby” or the ensemble dancing at a nightclub. Act 2 kicks off with Berlin’s popular Army tunes that work solidly into a patriotic theme. Lauren Parish carries a U.S. flag effectively for “Suppertime” underscoring the line, “That man of mine ain’t coming home.” Her deep voice compliments Berlin’s style calling for passion and warmth.

By the time the whole cast comes together for “White Christmas,” you’ll feel a pleasant chill.

Also among the best:

• A promising tenor, sophomore Vernon Shelton, in his first AU musical production, hits exactly the right notes in “Blue Skies.”
• Audrey Brinkley’s rich, full voice serves an emotional “Say It Isn’t So.”
• Kelsi Johnson turns in a tantalizing “What’ll I Do” and is then joined onstage by Sam Steere for a sincere “Count Your Blessings.”
• A spirited couple, Bryan Burckle and Chelsea Leis, circles the stage while singing, and taunting, in “Anything You Can Do.”

But the “star” is the piano, played constantly at center stage by David Duncan and joined by a six-piece orchestra that quaintly captures all of Berlin’s moods.

Though it might seem too short, AU’s “I Love a Piano” is an all-encompassing night of Irving Berlin songs that are familiar to us all.

—Scott L. Miley is a reporter for The Herald Bulletin. Photo credit: Don Knight. Story republished with permission.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2011, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the eighth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Each piece will be choreographed by Anderson University students. For some, this is their first time choreographing for an audience.

“Fall Into Dance” is one of two annual performances that the dance program puts on, along with an appearance in the annual “Candles and Carols” by the Anderson University School of Music.

All aspects of the performance will be put together by student choreographers. Dance Area Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Dance, Shauna Steele, will produce the show as well as oversee administrative and backstage responsibilities, with the help of Anderson University students and faculty.

“Students have been working very hard outside of their academic load — anywhere from 1 to 2 hour blocks a week for every piece,” said Steele. “Choreographers have chosen themes, ideas, or motifs that have personal meaning to them or ideas that engage them on an emotional level. It’ll be a very family friendly, energetic, and fun concert.”

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2011, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the eighth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

“While we are grateful to be included among the best of Midwest universities, we want most of all to be measured by our quality and our student success,” said Anderson University President Dr. James L. Edwards. “Our mission to transform lives through education will be met by nothing less.”

The 2012 Best Colleges guidebook provides the most thorough examination of how more than 1,400 accredited four-year schools compare on a set of up to 16 widely accepted indicators of excellence. Among the many factors weighed in determining the rankings, the key measures of quality are: peer assessment, graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, alumni giving, and, for National Universities and National Liberal Art Colleges, “graduation rate performance” and high school counselor ratings of colleges.

For more information on the rankings, visit www.usnews.com/colleges/.

Over the past two decades, the U.S. News & World Report college rankings, which group schools based on categories created by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, has grown to be the most comprehensive research tool for students and parents considering higher education opportunities.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2011, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the eighth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

“Anderson University is a distinct place often described in the past by our alumni and others as ‘very special.’ We want to bring greater distinction and clarity to that idea that will gain wide affirmation from those who are a part of the AU family and those who will come to know us,” said Anderson University President Dr. James L. Edwards.

The process began more than two years ago. The new logo and font were designed and developed by Kerry Shaw, director of Publications at Anderson University. The logo features the university’s name with an overarching base and orange flame. Students and alumni will associate this graphic with the Eternal Flame landmark located in front of Decker Hall. Edwards added that the goal of this long and very widely involved process is “clarity and distinction.”

Dr. Marie Morris, vice president of academic affairs, said, “I don’t really view this as a ‘brand direction’ but rather clarifying the AU story – its rich heritage and its bright future. I’m thrilled to be at AU at this time for this very important clarifying moment. Our world is changing and how we educate and prepare students must also keep pace with the times. It’s a new day for us at AU.”

Established in 1992 to mark the university’s 75th anniversary, the Eternal Flame echoes the university’s mission to educate and prepare individuals for lives of faith and service in their families, churches, and society. The new logo is a visual stepping stone to help define the bigger story among the countless experiences yet to be told about AU.

“Many on campus know that we provide students with something spectacular at Anderson University,” said Chris Williams, director of university communications. “We need to learn to share the story of Anderson University with others. The new logo is just one of the many ways we will be sharing this story with a variety of audiences in the future.”

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Forbes.com included only the top 20 percent of all undergraduate institutions in the 2011 rankings. The rankings were prepared by the Center for College Affordability and Productivity (CCAP).

“We have one more indication just how special Anderson University is, based on achievement of our students and graduates,” said Anderson University President Dr. James. L. Edwards. “The story of quality is another vote of confidence for a truly remarkable faculty. We are grateful for this recognition.”

Forbes executive editor Michael Noer explained the ranking process in an article on Forbes.com.

“Our annual ranking of the 650 best undergraduate institutions focuses on the things that matter the most to students: quality of teaching, great career prospects, graduation rates, and low levels of debt. … We try and evaluate the college purchase as a consumer would,” said Noer.

The rankings are based on five general categories: post graduate success (30%), student satisfaction (27.5%), debt (17.5%), four-year graduation rate (17.5%), and competitive awards (7.5). A complete ranking methodology may be viewed at http://blogs.forbes.com/michaelnoer/2011/08/03/americas-top-colleges/.

Data collected by Forbes is corroborated by data from the Student Satisfaction Inventory and the National Survey of Student Engagement. Data from the SSI, for example, shows that students rank Anderson University above the mean on a large battery of questions ranging from classroom instruction to campus safety.

Anderson University has been recognized for its quality programs in recent years. AU has been recognized by US News & World Report as one of America’s best colleges and universities for seven consecutive years. The Princeton Review also has recognized Anderson University as one of the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for 2011.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2011, US News & World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the eighth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

In 2009, Archibald performed at the Anderson University homecoming concert where she received the Outstanding Music Alumna Award. According to Dr. Jeff Wright, dean of the School of the Arts, the students at the concert received her and the music she played quite well. The award was an easy choice for Wright. [Photo on left: Dr. Jeff Wright presents Becky Archibald with the 2009 Outstanding Music Alumna Award.]

“We, as a music department, discuss possible recipients of the award, and she was the most logical decision,” Wright said. “She has really distinguished herself as a composer as well as a performer.” At the beginning of the 2010-11 school year, the School of Music asked Archibald to join their faculty. “We were happy about bringing her into the department because her talent and personality exemplify the type of person AU wants teaching its students,” added Wright.

“She is a very creative person who has a real desire to work with students and develop their skills; it’s sort of a rare combination,” said Wright.

Before she joined the AU faculty, Archibald worked to make a name for herself. She currently has five CDs on the market, and received the 2007-08 Creative Renewal Fellowship Award from the Arts Council of Indianapolis. Archibald spent time in recent summers at that Dordogne Jazz Summer School in Monteton, France. During the summer of 2008, Archibald studied at the summer school and added a French jazz influence to her repertoire. In 2009 she returned to the school in France for the summer as composer-in-residence. Such international notoriety, in addition to performing in major American cities, has advanced Archibald’s career.

— Kyle Beckman is a senior from Auburn, Ind., double-majoring in communication arts and business-information systems and minoring in political science. Beckman is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Wanda Savage was a great friend of the University and exemplified community spirit. The Savage family established this award as a way to honor Wanda, her work on behalf of Anderson University and the larger community, and to recognize those who continue to lead in the University and community relationship. [Photo on left: Russell Savage and Laurel Goetzinger]

Professor Laurel Goetzinger joined the AU School of Music faculty in 1999 as Director of The Boze Lyric Theatre and a member of the voice faculty. Professional directing credits include the Indiana Repertory Theatre, Hope Summer Repertory Theatre, and the Battle Creek Symphony and Lafayette Symphony. An Equity actor for over forty years, she has worked professionally as a singer and actor in New York and various theatres in the mid-west in opera, musical theatre and theatre. In Indiana, Professor Goetzinger has performed with the Indianapolis Opera, Indiana Repertory Theatre, Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre and at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. In New York, she sang with The Broque Opera, Tri-Cities Opera and American Opera Theatre. As a recitalist, she has performed in Chicago, St. Louis, San Diego and London as well as at universities in the Mid-West.

Goetzinger received her Bachelor of Science in Education from Illinois State University with a major in music and minor in theatre, and her Master of Music from the University of Illinois in vocal performance. In addition to Anderson University, she has taught at DePauw University, Miami University (Ohio), Butler University, and S.U.N.Y. Fredonia.

Goetzinger well represents the criteria for the Wanda Savage award, as one who exemplifies community spirit, working from within the University to extend the talent of our students and professors to the community at large.

The Office of Development acknowledged Goetzinger’s work with the Fall Dinner Theater event and the Winter Dinner Opera event. During each annual event, she presents to friends of the University a summary of each production (often humorous and moving, emotive and dramatic), painting a vivid portrait of the work behind the scenes as well as the drama and comedy on stage. Goetzinger showcases the talent of student performers as well as helping audiences to get to know the students, creating a familiarity between audience and performer.

Representing the Savage family was, Russell Savage, Wanda’s husband, and two daughters, Debbie Darlington and Lori DeLawter.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Dr. Jeffrey Wright, Dean of the College of the Arts, acknowledged at the groundbreaking how grateful he was for the time and resources put into this project. Wright is looking forward to showcasing the work of faculty, students and guest artists for years to come. He thanked the individuals who “grasp our vision on this project at this time.” He added that the arts are at the core of the liberal arts education at AU and a “way to express for all that is left unsaid in all other academics.”

[Left to right: Dr. David Markle, Senior Pastor of Park Place Church of God; Mike Montgomery, KRM; Robert Coffman, Vice President for Advancement; Dr. Jeffrey Wright, Dean of the College of the Arts; Twyla and Phil Harp, sister-in-law and brother of Dr. Elizabeth York; Dr. James L. Edwards, President of Anderson University; and Lou Gerig, Chair, AU Board of Trustees]

The new facility will support a permanent gallery space for the renown Warner Sallman art collection at Anderson University as well as an additional gallery space for a valuable wood art collection donated by Dr. James and Dr. Elizabeth York that includes works of leading artists, including pieces created by internationally-renowned wood artist Binh Pho. Anderson University maintains a special website dedicated to Warner Sallman’s work – www.warnersallman.org.

The York Performance Hall and Galleries project will feature orchestra space for 45 musicians, a choir loft for 75 voices, and an advanced acoustical design. The main floor of the facility will accommodate approximately 250 seats while the balcony space will support approximately 75 seats. A large lobby with glass walls will provide natural light and wide views of campus — providing an ideal setting for greeting guests and hosting receptions.

“We are so grateful for the commitment and support of the York family,” said Bob Coffman, vice president for advancement at Anderson University. “This new facility will provide a world-class environment in which our students and faculty will perform. Through their generosity, Dr. James and Dr. Elizabeth York are making a significant difference in the lives our students.”

Dr. James and Dr. Elizabeth York have given of their time and resources to make a difference in people’s lives. Their giving spirit was what convinced the couple that Dr. James York should retire early from his practice of orthopedic surgery so that they could work in mission hospitals throughout Africa. It also prompted them to contribute to the Harry L. and Henrietta Harp Endowed Memorial Fund at Anderson University. And it is one of the primary reasons they created the James M. York, M.D., and Elizabeth H. York Endowed Scholarship Fund through the Anderson University School of Theology. The Yorks also provided resources for the York Seminary Village project at AU and the York Children’s Book Collection within the Nicholson Library.

The architectural firm of KRM in Anderson is designing the project. Contractors managing the 18-month construction of the facility — targeted to begin in early summer 2011 — will be announced at a later date pending a further review and evaluation of project costs and projected gift income by the Executive Committee of the AU board of trustees.

Lou Gerig, AU board of trustees chair, expressed his gratitude at the groundbreaking to the faculty who will make this place more than a building but a learning experience for those aspiring careers in music, performance or art.

President Edwards acknowledged this project as “one more reason for students to come to AU for a world class education. Imagine the future that will unfold from here,” added Edwards.

Anderson University alumni and friends can help support a seat at the performance hall by making a gift online or sending a gift by mail. View photos from this event. Visit the York Performance Hall and Galleries website for more information.

— Stefanie Leiter is the Web Content Manager in the Office of University Communications at Anderson University.

The Dreams. Discovery. Direction. campaign is designed to raise support for endowment and scholarships, facilities and equipment, academic and student programs, and operational needs. Major components of the campaign include resources for capital projects, endowment, and operational support. The campaign will conclude Dec. 31, 2011. The last major campaign effort for Anderson University, with a goal of $75 million, ended in 1999 and raised $83.7 million.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Dr. Beverley Pitts, president of the University of Indianapolis and a 1968 graduate of Anderson University, received an honorary Doctor of Letters during the chapel. Honorary degrees will also be awarded to AU alumni Steven Curtis Chapman and Charles Myricks, Jr., during the May 7 commencement ceremony at Anderson University.

[Photo: Dr. Beverley Pitts and AU President Dr. James L. Edwards.]

During her address, Pitts reflected on her experience at Anderson University and on those who made her education possible. She encouraged students to consider with gratitude those who made their own journeys possible.

“We are all part of a shared culture at AU,” Pitts said. “Faculty, administrators, and graduates long before us built an institution based on the Christian values of personal responsibility and concern for others, high quality learning, and a commitment to service. You don’t even know who they are, but much of what you are now experiencing, the privilege of an excellent education in a faith-based institution, is based on their humble beginnings. … Stand high on the shoulders of those who brought you to this point. Be grateful for the privilege that they have given you. I hope you will take great advantage of this privilege and do good with what you know.”

Students recognized during chapel:

Renee Bader, a psychology major, is a member and officer in Phi Eta Sigma, Alpha Chi, and Psi Chi. She is also a Center for Public Service Fellow. Bader anticipates getting married and starting graduate school this summer. She plans to attend the University of Cincinnati to earn a master’s degree in school counseling.

Elizabeth Barrow, a biology major and chemistry minor, served as president of Sigma Zeta, president of Alpha Chi, president of the Pre-Professional Health Society, and was co-founder of Operation Foundation: Project Anderson. She served as a TA in a number of science classes and as a tutor in Organic Chemistry. She is also a Center for Public Service Fellow and an officer in Phi Eta Sigma. Barrow is active in a number of campus groups and participated in Tri-S trips to Australia, London, and Honduras. She plans to attend IU Medical School to obtain her M.D.

[Photo, from left: Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean Dr. Marie Morris, Ambrosia Davidson, Joanna Tilley, Keith Sayer, Samantha Toeller, Beth Barrow, Renee Bader, and AU President Dr. James L. Edwards.]

Ambrosia Davidson, a marketing major and Spanish minor, is a member of the AU Honors Program, Delta Mu Delta, Alpha Mu Gamma, Alpha Chi, Phi Eta Sigma, and the Center for Public Service. During her time at AU, she participated in Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE), worked with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, and served an internship at Minnetrista Cultural Center in Muncie. After graduation, Davidson plans to finalize details for her wedding and pursue employment in marketing communications or public relations.

Keith Sayer, a Bible/religion and English double-major, is a member of Alpha Chi, Sigma Tau Delta, and the AU Honors Program. He plans to attend either Vanderbilt Divinity School or Duke Divinity School this fall to pursue graduate studies in religion. Sayer hopes to teach religion at the undergraduate level and participate in teaching ministries of the church through research, writing, and possibly serving as a teaching minister.

Joanna Tilley, a pre-med biology major with minors in chemistry and Christian ministries, is a member of Alpha Chi, Sigma Zeta, Pre-Professional Health Society, Alacritas, and the Center for Public Service. She plans to pursue medical school this fall at Edward Via Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, Va.

Samantha Toeller, an elementary education/special education major and applied music minor, has served in Kappa Delta Pi and Alpha Chi. She is completing her full-year student teaching experience, with classroom experience in 2nd and 6th grades as well as in intermediate special education resource. Toeller hopes to receive a teaching position at a school in Indianapolis or Chicago, and to teach within a multicultural setting in the intermediate grades.

Gabe Miller, an exercise science major, is this year’s Outstanding Senior Male Athlete. As a four-year starter for the men’s basketball team, he received 1st Team All-HCAC honors following both his junior and senior seasons. Miller led the Ravens in assist over the past four seasons and led in steals the past two years. He played a key role on the 2009-10 team that won the HCAC season championship and made it to the second round of the NCAA Division III tournament. He was the team captain during his junior and senior years.

[Photo, from left: Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean Dr. Marie Morris, Athletic Director Marcie Taylor, Gabe Miller, Ellen Thompson, and AU President Dr. James L. Edwards.]

Ellen Thompson, a biology major, is this year’s Outstanding Senior Female Athlete. She was a member of the women’s basketball team the past four seasons, a member of the women’s golf team during her freshman and sophomore years, and a member of the softball team the past two seasons. In basketball, Thompson earned HCAC All-Conference and team MVP honors during the 2010-11 season. She is the ninth leading scorer in school history with 965 points, second in free throws made (281) and free throws attempted (381), and fourth in free throw percentage at 73.8 percent. She was team captain during her senior season.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

The camp is designed for all high school students interested in music including choral, general music, K-12 music education, and instrumental music.

“The music education camp at AU will offer prospective students a glimpse at the types of classes they will take as college music majors,” said Dr. Susan Taylor, co-chair of the School of Music and the Music Education Camp director. “Being one of the only camps of its kind in the nation, our intent is for this experience to solidify their desire to major in music education and introduce them to the life of a music educator.”

The workshops will give hands-on opportunities to conduct, work on aural skills, timely topics including marching band and musical theatre, student leadership seminars, and a variety of other musical activities that will provide a glimpse into the world of being a music educator.

“As a career, music educators are growing across the nation,” added Taylor. “The sooner we can educate high school students the more prepared they will be to enter music education as a career.”

The cost for the workshop is $295, which includes tuition, materials, housing, and meals. Registration and a $50 non-refundable deposit are due by May 16.

For more information and registration details, visit the Music Education Camp website at www.anderson.edu/music-ed/, email Taylor at sltaylor@anderson.edu, or call (800) 619-3047.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

“The performance hall project adds a significant dimension to the outstanding programs found in the School of Music,” said Dr. James L. Edwards, president of Anderson University. “The lead gift for this project has come from Dr. James York and Dr. Elizabeth York. These great friends of Anderson University have lifted our vision for what we can accomplish toward a bold and vibrant future in several of our outstanding programs.”

The Performance Hall and Galleries project is a part of the $110 million Dreams. Discovery. Direction. campaign for Anderson University. The campaign is the largest fundraising effort in the university’s history. To date the campaign has raised $97 million. Major components of the campaign include $51 million for capital projects, $34 million for endowment, and $25 million for operational support.

“We are so grateful for the commitment and support of the York family,” said Bob Coffman, vice president for advancement at Anderson University. “This new facility will provide a world-class environment in which our students and faculty will perform. Through their generosity, Dr. James and Dr. Elizabeth York are making a significant difference in the lives our students.”

Dr. James and Dr. Elizabeth York have given of their time and resources to make a difference in people’s lives. Their giving spirit was what convinced the couple that Dr. James York should retire early from his practice of orthopedic surgery so that they could work in mission hospitals throughout Africa. It also prompted them to contribute to the Harry L. and Henrietta Harp Endowed Memorial Fund at Anderson University. And it is one of the primary reasons they created the James M. York, M.D., and Elizabeth H. York Endowed Scholarship Fund through the Anderson University School of Theology.  The Yorks also provided resources for the York Seminary Village project at AU and the York Children’s Book Collection within the Nicholson Library.

The architectural firm of KRM in Anderson is designing the project. Contractors managing the 18-month construction of the facility — targeted to begin in early summer 2011 — will be announced at a later date pending a further review and evaluation of project costs and projected gift income by the Executive Committee of the AU board of trustees.

It is anticipated that the new facility will support a permanent gallery space for the Warner Sallman Art Collection at Anderson University as well as an additional gallery space for other specialized art collections owned by the institution. Anderson University maintains a website dedicated to Sallman’s work — www.warnersallman.org.

The Performance Hall and Galleries project is designed to be an acoustically superior venue that will give proper recognition to the work of students, faculty members, and guest artists. The architectural and acoustical design of the facility will enhance the nationally recognized programs of the School of Music. The hall will be carefully constructed and shaped to ensure that music is heard and experienced in powerful and moving ways.

“This is a project that we have been anticipating for a long time that we feel will have a significant impact on the growth and development of the School of Music,” said Dr. Jeff Wright, dean of the School of Music at Anderson University. “All of us in the School of Music are very excited about the impact that the performance hall will have on our work and the development of students.”

The Performance Hall and Galleries project will feature orchestra space for 45 musicians, a choir loft for 75 voices, and an advanced acoustical design. The main floor of the facility will accommodate approximately 250 seats while the balcony space will support approximately 75 seats. A large lobby with glass walls will provide natural light and wide views of campus — providing an ideal setting for greeting guests and hosting receptions.

The School of Music is one of the largest and strongest academic units on the campus of Anderson University. Graduates perform in some of the most prestigious venues in the world, including The Metropolitan Opera in New York City and La Scala Theatre in Milan. Graduates are also teaching in some of the strongest school systems in the nation, leading music ministries in important churches, sharing their artistic vision through all facets of the music industry, and pursuing graduate degrees from prominent universities.

“As a performing artist, I understand the importance of a performance hall in creating a venue where the expression of art can be realized,” said Lawrence Brownlee, a 1996 alumnus of Anderson University and a world renowned bel canto tenor. “It also provides an intimate space where the acoustics and atmosphere contribute to an experience that both listeners and performers can enjoy. For those students who will go on to have performing careers, it is vital for them to understand the setting in which their performances will take place. The performance hall has many possibilities, and I am sure it will benefit the Anderson community in countless ways.”

All current Anderson University music students and alumni share one thing in common. They perform as soloists and as members of musical ensembles during their years at AU. Each week, the School of Music hosts multiple performances that showcase the artistry of student musicians. In addition, the School of Music presents performances by faculty members and guest artists, many of whom are featured in a special Thursday Night Concert Series which attracts significant audiences from the campus and community. In short, the School of Music boasts an active performance calendar that will be supported by the new performance hall.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

The ensemble, known as DCDC2, provides a platform for emerging performers, teachers, and choreographers to hone their technical skills and showcase their artistry.

The group will perform in chapel at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, March 29, and will lead a master class for dance students at 12:30 p.m. in the dance studio, located in the Kardatzke Wellness Center. All AU students are welcome to attend the master class.

Rooted in the African American experience, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s mission is to deliver contemporary dance of the highest quality to the broadest possible audience. The company reaches its audience with local performances, through national and international touring, and through educational programs in the Miami Valley and on tour.

“It is valuable to have a professional dance company on campus,” said Matt Farmer, instructor of dance. “It raises additional awareness of the dance program at AU and also allows people to see what the dancers on campus are aiming for, both in terms of ability and jobs in professional dance.”

On Thursday, March 31, Campus Ministries will lead the second Vision Revision chapel that will include a three-person theatre piece, videography, and student-led worship. The chapel theme will focus on the subject of “moving beyond our brokenness by discovering our purpose, passion, and peace in Christ,” said junior Katie Price, Vision Revision coordinator.

“The purpose of student-led Vision Revision chapels are to allow the student body to experience and engage in creative worship and ministry through the collaboration of various art forms including music, dance, theatre, videography, and visual studio arts,” said Price.

Vision Revision is an annual campus opportunity to discuss faith through the arts. To learn more about Vision Revision, contact the AU Campus Ministries Office at (765) 641-4203. Learn more about the AU Dance Program.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

The performances will take place at Reardon Auditorium on the campus of Anderson University, and are open to the campus community and the general public. The performance on Friday, March 25 will be at 7:30 p.m., and the performance on Saturday, March 26 will be at 2:30 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults; $10 for seniors and Anderson University faculty and staff; and $5 for AU students and other college and high school students with a valid ID. Children ages 10 and under are free. Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance by calling the School of Music at (765) 641-4543 or (800) 619-3047.

Audience members will get a taste of what is happening in the world of contemporary modern dance through this year’s guest artist, Jon Lehrer. Lehrer is the artistic director of LehrerDance, an internationally touring dance company based in Buffalo, N.Y. As a dancer, Lehrer has performed with the Eric Hawkins Dance Co., John Passafiume Dancers, and Merv Griffin. He was a company member and associate director of the Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Co.

Lehrer has choreographed for several dance companies in Chicago and around the world, including Thodos Dance Chicago; Instruments of Movement; Momenta Dance Theatre; Louisiana Dance Theatre; Le Jazz Groupe from Monterrey, Mexico; and Kannon Dance of St. Petersburg, Russia. He has also choreographed at universities across the country. In 2002, Lehrer was one of four Chicago choreographers selected to participate in the first-ever Dance Chicago Choreography Project, sponsored by the Chicago Community Trust and Sara Lee. He was selected again in 2004.

Lehrer teaches master classes throughout the U.S. and around the world. He is on the faculty of the Jazz Dance World Congress, Dance Masters of America, Dance Teacher Summer Conference, Chicago National Association of Dance Masters, and Chicago Dance Connection. He is a frequent guest artist at colleges around the country. In 2003 Lehrer received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University at Buffalo’s Zodiaque Dance Company for his accomplishments as a dancer and choreographer. He is on the advisory board of Dance Spirit Magazine.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

The complete program follows:

• Rameau: Gavotte and Variations
• Brahms: Sonata No. 1 in C Major, Opus 1
• Liszt: Three Sonetti del Petrarca (Années de pélerinage IIe Année, Italie)
• Chopin: Andante Spianato and Grande Polonaise Brillante, Opus 22

Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for students with valid ID, and free for children under 12 if accompanied by adults; tickets are available by calling (800) 619-3047 or (765) 641-4543.

Nakamatsu is known throughout the U.S. and abroad as a pianist who, in the words of The New York Times, “has stunning technical control and can do anything at the piano he wants.” Nakamatsu will return to New York City in April 2011 for a recital at the Grace Rainey Rogers Auditorium of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of New York’s most important recital venues. Elsewhere he was heard as guest soloist with the Greenwich (CT) Symphony Orchestra, Peninsula Symphony Orchestra (San Mateo, CA) Bozeman (MT) Symphony, Rochester (NY) Philharmonic, and Santa Rosa (CA) Symphony. He has also participated in the Beijing International Piano Festival in Beijing, China. As orchestral guest soloist he has been performing Gershwin’s Concerto in F, Beethoven’s 3rd Piano Concerto, Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No.1, Schumann’s Concerto in A Minor, and Brahms’ Concerto No. 1 in D Minor.

Nakamatsu studied privately with the late Marina Derryberry from the age of six, and has worked with Karl Ulrich Schnabel, son of the great pianist Artur Schnabel. He has also studied composition and orchestration with Dr. Leonard Stein of the Schoenberg Institute at the University of Southern California, and pursued extensive studies in chamber music and musicology. Nakamatsu is a graduate of Stanford University with a bachelor’s degree in German Studies and a master’s degree in Education.

Visit www.jonnakamatsu.com to learn more about Nakamatsu.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Chapman will address the graduating class of 2011 during the 3 p.m. (EDT) program and will receive an honorary doctorate along with the Rev. Charles Myricks, chief operating development officer for the National Association of the Church of God, and Dr. Beverley Pitts, president of the University of Indianapolis. Anderson University’s commencement will be conducted in the Ward Fieldhouse of the Kardatzke Wellness Center. Myricks will speak earlier in the day during Anderson University’s baccalaureate service at 10 a.m in Reardon Auditorium. All events are free and open to the public. AU will offer a live webcast during Commencement starting at 2:45 p.m. EDT.

Other events scheduled during Anderson University’s commencement day on May 7 include the Falls School of Business hooding ceremony at 11:30 a.m. in Byrum Hall for candidates of both Master of Business Administration and Doctor of Business Administration degrees.

The hooding ceremony for the Master of Education and the Master of Music Education will be conducted at noon in Schield Dining Room, Olt Student Center. The certification ceremony for the Teach for Indiana Program (TIP) will be conducted at 10 a.m. in Decker Hall, Room 133.

Events earlier in the week include the School of Theology Senior Recognition and Awards Chapel on Tuesday, April 26, at 11 a.m. in Miller Chapel. The hooding ceremony for the Doctor of Ministry graduates will take place on Friday, May 6, at 6 p.m. in Miller Chapel. In addition, a special pinning ceremony for the Anderson University School of Nursing will be conducted on Friday, May 6, at 6 p.m. in Byrum Hall.

Individuals receiving honorary degrees during the May 7 commencement ceremony at Anderson University include the following:

STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN — DOCTOR OF MUSIC

Steven Curtis Chapman is a Christian singer, songwriter, record producer, actor, and author. He attended Anderson University in the early 1980s while starting his career as a songwriter. Chapman has developed into one of the most prolific singers in the genre, releasing more than 20 albums to date. Chapman has also won five Grammy awards and 56 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, more than any other artist in history. His seven “Artist of the Year” Dove Awards — his latest in 2009 — are also an industry record. In addition to his music career, Chapman, along with his wife Mary Beth (also an AU alum), established a nonprofit foundation called Show Hope (formerly called Shaohannah’s Hope) to mobilize individuals and communities to care for orphans through its international orphan care work as well as adoption aid grants. Chapman plans a summer 2011 album release for his new project titled re:creation.

CHARLES MYRICKS — DOCTOR OF DIVINITY

Charles Myricks, Jr., is a gifted musician and playwright with a deep love of music. He graduated from Anderson University in 1982 and went on to receive his Master of Arts degree from Ashland Theological Seminary. He has served as vice president and general manager of Word Gospel Records. Under his leadership, Word Gospel artists received 3 Grammy Awards, 8 Dove Awards, and 12 Stellar Awards. He has served as a trustee at Anderson University and in ministry with the Arlington Church of God in Akron, Ohio. He currently works as chief operating development officer for the National Association of the Church of God.

DR. BEVERLEY PITTS — DOCTOR OF LETTERS

Dr. Beverley Pitts serves as president of the University of Indianapolis. In that capacity, she oversees an institution with 4,500 students, including a branch campus in Athens, Greece, and doctoral programs in occupational therapy, physical therapy, and clinical psychology. She earned a BA from Anderson University in 1968 and an MA in journalism and doctorate in higher education from Ball State University. Prior to becoming provost at Ball State University, she held positions of associate provost, assistant provost, director of academic assessment, and director of general studies at Ball State. She was also founding chair of the Department of Communication at Anderson University.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

That was in the 1660s. Nowadays the religious criticism seems tongue-in-cheek and fitting for production at the Christian-based Anderson University.

Over the years, “Tartuffe” has been performed as a regal 17th century parlor tale with characters in Louis XIV garb and as a 1950s morality play based at a Christian TV station. [Photo on left: Seth Rodden, as wealthy merchant Orgon Pernelle, talks to maid Dorine, played by Katherine Beach, in Anderson University's production of the comic opera "Tartuffe."]

At AU, director Laurel Goetzinger has chosen Kirke Mechem’s 1980 updated version for this weekend’s performances, placing the time period in the middle of those earlier productions — during the socially formal early 19th century with rich waistcoats and floor-length dresses (thanks to true-to-the-age costumer Karen Wittin).

Whatever the age, the message is still universal: trust not the hypocrite.

Tartuffe is the opera’s chief conniver who has taken in wealthy merchant Orgon Pernelle and his family. Before his ruse is uncovered, he receives the deed to the mansion and a blessing to marry Pernelle’s daughter Marianne.

Tartuffe is played formidably by the towering H. Frank Ebels, who believably works the angles as a cool charlatan and false confessor. Watch his roving eyes but don’t trust him. Tartuffe’s first appearance, which doesn’t come until the second act, humorously sets up the character’s contradictions as Ebels walks through a door wearing the holy red of a cardinal while carrying two crosses. Of course, he turns out to be the double-crossing conniver.

Top voices in the production include Seth Rodden, whose distinct pronunciation convincingly carries Orgon Pernelle’s naive commitment to Tartuffe, and Katherine Beach as the doubting maid Dorine. Also of note is Lauren Parish as Orgon’s wife, Elmire. The opening of Act 3 is built around her ability to exude female confidence. She bemoans the stubbornness of men (“marital bliss can never be found with a man”) with wit, keeps the audience following her every move in catching Tartuffe in his own lies and draws laughs with her operatic cough.

“Tartuffe” can often be too tough for Midwest audiences. Be advised to keep an eye out for the comic elements. Feel free to chuckle at most any point but make note of the orchestra led by Fritz Robertson; the music rolls from emotional involvement to sly parody, ranging from sauciness as characters joust over Tartuffe’s personality to the cartoonish revelation of Tartuffe’s hypocrisy.

Also of help, the opera is sung in English with English surtitles projected overhead.

If you go…

• What: “Tartuffe,” the comic opera by Moliere, updated in 1980 with music and lyrics by Kirke Mechem; sung in English with English surtitles projected above the stage.
• When: 7:30 p.m. today and Saturday; 2:30 p.m. Sunday
• Where: Boze Lyric Theatre, Byrum Hall, Anderson University
• Tickets: Buy them at the door or call (765) 641-4351. General admission is $12 and senior/military is $10; students’ cost is $5 or donation of a non-perishable food item.
• Information: The performance is recommended for those who are high school age and above.

—Scott L. Miley is a reporter for The Herald Bulletin. Photo credit: Don Knight. Story republished with permission.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

In its 65th season, the 44-voice Anderson University Chorale under the direction of conductor Dr. Richard Sowers has received national and international recognition as one of the nation’s premiere collegiate choirs. The Chorale has performed in concert for several national and regional conventions of the American Chorale Directors Association.

[Click here to see tour schedule]

Domestic tours have taken the Chorale to almost every region and state. Tours have included performances in Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall, Riverside Church, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York, Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, and the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., Performances of the Emmy award-winning “Candles and Carols” Christmas program by the Chorale and other Anderson University School of Music ensembles are televised each December throughout the United States and on EWTN and other networks globally.

International tours have taken the Chorale to concert venues and church-related events in Germany, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, and Russia. In May 2010, the Chorale toured Finland, Sweden, and Denmark giving nine concerts in 16 days, including several performances at the Vaasa International Choral Festival in Finland.

[Photo: The 2010-2011 Anderson University Chorale.]

The 2011 tour concerts will feature a broad range of musical compositions including selections by Michael McCarthy, Monteverdi, Sweelinck, Lauridsen, William Averitt, and Dan Forrest. Additionally, hymn arrangements and spirituals arranged by Mark Condon and Don Marsh will be performed. Anderson University Staff Accompanist Rebecca Edie will be featured on several selections.

The Chorale conductor, Dr. Richard Sowers, is in his 27th year at Anderson University where he is a professor of music and director of choirs. He also conducts the Anderson Symphonic Choir, Men’s Choir, and teaches undergraduate and graduate conducting and music education classes. In 2007 during a sabbatical leave, Sowers was resident guest conductor with the EMO Ensemble, a professional level vocal ensemble in Helsinki, Finland, presenting a concert of music by all American composers written since 2000. During this time Sowers also was a guest conducting teacher at the Sibelius Academy.

Sowers is in his 22nd season as music director and conductor of the Anderson (city) Symphony Orchestra. He has been guest conductor with the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, The Toledo Symphony, the Richmond Symphony, the Carmel Symphony Orchestra, the Houston Symphony Orchestra, and the New World Youth Orchestra of Indianapolis. Sowers has degrees from Indiana University, Colorado State University, and Arizona State University. In 1994 Sowers was chosen as the outstanding music alumnus form Colorado State University. His conducting teachers have included Jan Harrington, Edward Anderson, Douglas McEwen, Robert Shaw, Helmuth Rilling, and Kenneth Kiesler. Sowers maintains an active schedule as guest conductor and clinician.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

But now, as he looks back, it couldn’t be more fitting. Everybody’s dreaming of summer this weekend.

“When we have weather like we’ve had this week, sometimes we think about how great it will be when summer rolls around,” said Sowers, professor of music at Anderson University.

For example, the symphonic poem “Siegfried Idyll” was reportedly written by Richard Wagner during the summer as he sat next to a lake at Munich, Germany.

As the second of the three works to be performed, Sowers selected Edvard Grieg’s “Holberg Suite” because it sounded “summery.”

[Photo: 2010 Anderson University graduate Meaghan Sands watches conductor Rick Sowers as she rehearses with the Anderson Symphony Orchestra. Credit: John P. Cleary/The Herald Bulletin.]

The concert will be at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Paramount Theatre, 1124 Meridian Plaza. Tickets are available.

Though not especially Valentine’s Day music, patrons can receive a $5 discount if they buy a pair of tickets and mention the code “luvmusic” or type it into the promotional code box at www.andersonsymphony.org.

Due to recent water damage to the basement of the Paramount, the symphony has also increased its per-seat payment to the Paramount, said Dana Stone, executive director of the symphony.

The damage, now repaired, did not affect the symphony.

There will also be a booth at Saturday’s concert where couples can purchase photos.

“It’s a way to get into the Valentine’s mood even thought it’s not a Valentine’s concert,” Stone said.

AU grad Sands featured

Capping Saturday’s concert will be soprano Meaghan Sands, a recent Anderson University graduate who sings with the symphony on “In Knoxville: Summer of 1915,” by American composer Samuel Barber.

In 1947, Barber took a selection of a poem by James Agee, born in Knoxville, and written as an ode to his deceased father.

Part of the lyrics are:

“All my people are larger bodies than mine, with voices gentle and meaningless like the voices of sleeping birds….

“One is my mother who is good to me. One is my father who is good to me. By some chance, here they are, all on this earth; and who shall ever tell the sorrow of being on this earth, lying, on quilts, on the grass, in a summer evening, among the sounds of the night.

“May God bless my people, my uncle, my aunt, my mother, my good father, oh, remember them kindly in their time of trouble; and in the hour of their taking away.”

The work is performed in English. Sands finds the lyrics especially meaningful and moving.

“I can’t reiterate how lucky I am to sing this piece. It’s so beautiful. I know the poet, James Agee, wrote this piece while his father was dying,” Sands said. “It’s kind of looking back at this person’s childhood memories.”

She added, “How can anybody foresee how sorrowful the earth is when you’re lying on a quilt in the grass in the summer in Knoxville? It paints so many beautiful pictures.”

Sands and Sowers had worked together at Anderson University. Among his roles, Sowers is director of the AU Chorale, where Sands has been a member.

Sands, 22, has performed in AU opera productions, including last season’s Into the Woods. A native of upper New York state, she is auditioning for singing roles and seeking graduate education.

“She has that quality to her singing that it’s not just a beautiful sound but she sings with such understanding,” Sowers said.

He added, “She’s so expressive that when I thought about soloists, I immediately thought about her.”

— Scott L. Miley is associate features editor at The Herald Bulletin. Story reposted with permission.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

The intense three-day workshop will introduce voice teachers, coaches/accompanists, and lyric theatre directors to the techniques of Classical improvisation, and offer classes in practical ways to incorporate those techniques into voice lessons, studio class settings, coachings, and lyric theatre workshops and rehearsals.

[Photo: Ann Baltz, founder and artistic director of OperaWorks in Los Angeles.]

Classes will be taught by Baltz, as well as Patrice Pastore, voice faculty member at Ithaca College, and Laurel Goetzinger, associate professor of music at Anderson University.

“Improvisation is a staple in the training for actors, dancers and jazz musicians, but for classical musicians it is still a relatively new idea,” said Goetzinger. “Ann Baltz has been pivotal in developing this new field. Having seen with our own AU students how uniquely positive and pivotal classical improvisation can be for singers and instrumentalists, we wanted to offer this training to teachers here in the Midwest so that they could learn to incorporate classical improvisation into their teaching as well.”

The cost for the workshop is $395, which includes a $50 non-refundable application fee. On-campus housing is also available for an additional fee.

For more information and registration details, visit the Classical Improvisation Workshop website at www.anderson.edu/classical-improv/.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Swanson received the nomination for her work in the October 2010 production of “Children of Eden.” The first round of the Ryan competition includes students nominated from universities all over the five state Region. The semi-final round is made up of less than 40 students chosen from the first round. In the first round, students perform one, 3-minute scene with their scene partner. In the semi-final round, both the 3-minute and a 2-minute scene are performed. [Photo on left: Kylie Swanson played "Yonah" in "Children of Eden." She received the Irene Ryan nomination for her work in this production.]

Also this year, Anderson University was selected to bring a scene from The Boze Lyric Theatre production “Into the Woods” to the Festival’s Evening of Scenes performance. This was the first time that an AU production was so recognized by the KCACTF.

“This was an exciting year for us at the KCACTF Regional Festival in January,” said Laurel Goetzinger, associate professor of music. “Not only did we have our first-ever invited performance on the Evening of Scenes, but one of our Irene Ryan Scholarship Audition nominees, Kylie Swanson made it to the semi-final round of the competition.”

“The Festival offers excellent opportunities for our students to experience and participate in a wide variety of performances, workshops and master classes watching and working with artists, and teachers from throughout the country,” added Goetzinger.

The Region III Festival was held January 4 – 8, 2011 with a performance from AU on January 5 at the Evening of Scenes (The Fringe). This is the highest honor afforded to an Associate Production entry, in which the full production is not competing to be considered for performance at the Regional and National Festivals. This is AU’s first such recognition since participating in ACTF.

Started in 1969 by Roger L. Stevens, the Kennedy Center’s founding chairman, the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF) is a national theater program involving 18,000 students from colleges and universities nationwide which has served as a catalyst in improving the quality of college theater in the United States. The KCACTF has grown into a network of more than 600 academic institutions throughout the country, where theater departments and student artists showcase their work and receive outside assessment by KCACTF respondents.

—Stefanie Leiter is the Web Content Manager in the Office of University Communications at Anderson University.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Joshua Powell

Sophomore Joshua Powell, born and raised in Vero Beach, Fla., traveled to AU because of the opportunities the university offers for musicians. Being a part of an Orangehaus Records album is allowing Powell to make his dreams of writing and releasing an album a reality.

Powell grew up surrounded by music; his father played the drums for Sandi Patty and his cousin was in a touring worship band. “My cousin came and played in my town when I was young and I wanted to be as cool as him, so I picked up the guitar and taught myself how to play,” he said.

“I came knowing how to play different types of music, but AU has taught me the mechanics of music and given me the opportunity to work with a label,” said Powell.

His music is folk-based with some influence from indie and ambient music. He played one of his songs, “Last Chance to Slow Dance” at the four musicians’ debut show as Orangehaus artists called “An Evening with Orangehaus.”

“All the guys are really talented, and I am really excited to work with them on this label,” said Powell.

Greg Hojnacki
Sophomore Greg Hojnacki, from Hudson, Ohio, was first inspired by music when he “heard his cousins listening to an old MXPX album, and eventually picked up a guitar and started learning because both of them as well as my brother played,” said Hojnacki.

He initially heard about AU through friends, but came to visit and “instantly fell in love with the atmosphere and the people here,” said Hojnacki. “I also knew AU had a highly ranked business school.” He is currently studying marketing and music business.

Hojnacki’s folk music style laced with a pop-oriented feel goes great with the album. He plays guitar and sings on the album. “The songs I am using on the album are all personal experiences that have shaped my way of thinking and taught me valuable life lessons,” said Hojnacki. “The inspirations came from conversations with close friends, the beauty I find in little things and places I have been, which have molded me into who I have become.”

Tyler Ewigleben
Freshman Tyler Ewigleben, from Brownsburg, Ind., came to AU for a number of reasons. “My brother goes to AU and he showed me everything the business school offers. I also love the level of community this campus has,” said Ewigleben. “The opportunity with Orangehaus was always a part of my decision and I wanted a school that would be a positive influence on my life.”

Ewigleben grew up surrounded by music. His parents are music educators and he began writing lyrics and songs at a very young age. “I have been spoon-fed music since birth,” said Ewigleben.

Ewigleben’s three songs featured on the album relate to his life experiences. The song “Highway to Boston,” depicts the essence of a relationship; the ups and downs and the positive place you want to be at the end, but in the end it’s everything you didn’t want. Here is a glimpse of the lyrics:

Words that I never said
They’re still living in my head
Every time I turn around
You’re looking up
I’m looking down
And we’re lost in the sound of Boston.

His other songs are called “All the Wrong Places” and “Bring Me Your Love.” These two pieces are about love and the “ironies in America … and the fight to stay together,” said Ewigleben.

Rob Krosley
Freshman Rob Krosley, from St. Louis, Mo., came to AU after attending the Orangehaus Music Business Camp two years in a row. “The camp really solidified my belief that this was the place I needed to be,” said Krosley.

Krosley plays guitar and vocals on the album. His songs have a pop-rock feel. “My three songs really represent three manifestations of love,” he said. “I believe that whatever love we have here on earth, be it between a man and a woman, a father and son, or two friends, is all a picture and a reminder of a perfect love found in Christ.”

One of his songs is about a chance he and a friend had to show the love of Christ by sharing the gospel with a little girl in Mexico. “My hope is that we will be able to record a Spanish version of the song and send it to the church we worked with,” said Krosley.

Another song on the album is about “me getting past my selfish tendencies in order to love even when it’s hard,” said Krosley. Lastly, “the third song focuses on love between friends in the midst of a tough situation.”

Orangehaus Records has established a way for these students to develop their talents and is empowering them to gain experience in the recording industry. The album’s anticipated release date is in spring 2011.

— Lydia Smith is a senior from Indianapolis, Ind., majoring in communication arts and and minoring in peace and conflict transformation. Smith is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2009, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the sixth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Orangehaus Records, Anderson University’s music label, has played a big role in his professional development. It was through the music business program and other artists on campus that he discovered his love for writing and playing music.

“My love and passion for music started at AU,” said Levi, who began writing music at the end of his freshman year. “I remember several nights being in the practice room writing for endless hours.”

During his sophomore year, Levi used the Orangehaus Records studio to record demos and work on a compilation album called Will Play for Food with other students as a benefit for the Salvation Army.

“I made a connection with Charlie Peacock through Orangehaus Records, which opened many doors,” said Levi. “He really liked my music and I was able to open for his band in Muncie a few years ago.” That connection helped Levi produce his first album, The Little Place.

Levi plays in a band with three other members. He is the sole writer for the band, as well as playing guitar and singing lead vocals. Micah Gilliam plays lead guitar and mandolin, and Caleb Crockett is the bass guitarist. Bradford Dobbs rounds out the group on drums. These four musicians play together to create a distinct Midwest rock sound.

“Micah is the musical genius,” said Levi. “I can write the songs and come up with something, but he takes it to the next level. We all just work together.”

The band has a lot of plans for the future. They are currently networking with different colleges to play in the Midwest region. Levi and the band recently attended the National Association for Campus Activities Conference, a college agency that provides a place for partnership and opportunity for a host of artists, lecturers, and performers.

The songs Levi writes are about life experiences. His lyrics share about tough situations Levi has dealt with and “realizing it’s really hard, but pushing through is important. Our songs are filled with hope, and are faith-based with positive lyrics about relationships, love, and loss,” said Levi.

Levi has a good home base around Anderson and the band plans on “working from here and moving out,” said Levi. “We want to concentrate on making really good friends and fans, and making those relationships genuine. We know nothing is going to just fall into our lap, it is going to take a lot of hard work and networking.”

“Our goal is to take every little opportunity and build from it, and to build a fan base with our friends, so hopefully we can do another album and then yet another album and people will still be eager to hear what we will do next,” said Levi.

For more information, or to hear what Joel Levi has to offer check out the band’s website at: www.myspace.com/joellevimusic.

— Lydia Smith is a senior from Indianapolis, Ind., majoring in communication arts and and minoring in peace and conflict transformation. Smith is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2009, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the sixth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Kumi comes to AU after teaching at Grace College in Winona Lake, Ind., for the past three years. Currently, he gives six violin students one-on-one lessons once a week, teaches a string technique class for music education majors, and co-conducts AU’s chamber orchestra. [Photo on left: Professor Kumi directs the students at a Chamber Orchestra practice for the Candles and Carols performance in December. They are rehearsing “Le Quarto Stagioni” by Antonio Vivaldi.]

“He works hard at teaching and modeling the artistry that our students need to emulate, and he is committed to helping us build a strong string program at AU,” said Dr. Jeffrey Wright, dean of the College of the Arts. “ We are all greatly impressed with his energy, artistry, and vision for our music school. I could not be more pleased with his strong work ethic and his sense of cooperation.”

Born and raised in Albania, Kumi immigrated to the United States in 2000 when he enrolled in the master’s program at the Julliard School of Music in New York City. He graduated in 2003.

Kumi began playing the violin when he was eight years old. His older sister began playing at the age of six. “Listening to her play the violin fascinated me. Every time she would take a break, I would go play it,” said Kumi.

When he first started playing the violin, he practiced about an hour a day. This increased rapidly, and by the time he was in the fourth grade, he practiced about four hours a day. “From the very beginning, I knew I wanted to be a violinist,” said Kumi.

At age 11, he began watching the Vietnam Philharmonic Orchestra on television. He took special notice of the conductor and began to try to imitate him. “I would stand in front of a mirror and ‘practice’ conducting an orchestra. I would just move my hands up and down as if I was a real conductor,” said Kumi. Conducting is one of the things he loves, yet he doesn’t do it as often as he would like to. “I took a conducting class at Julliard and loved it. I would love to do some more here, as well,” he said.

Of the numerous locations Kumi has performed in, several stand out. “I played at the Milan Conservatory in Italy. It was my first important international performance. I was especially excited because five days before, a famous Russian cellist I admired had played there. It was cool to be able to play at the same place that he did,” said Kumi.

He also performed at Carnegie Hall and the Lincoln Center, as well as five times at Radio City Music Hall in 2005 with Elton John. Kumi had the opportunity to meet the prince of Monaco when he performed in Monte Carlo. Last May, Kumi played at a modern music festival in Beijing, China. “It is where some of the best students of music perform, so I feel very honored to have played there,” he said.

Kumi attributes his success over the years to opportunities presented to him by God. He became a Christian at the age of 20 while still living in Albania. The communist regime had recently fallen and while walking home from school one day, he saw a banner that said, “God Loves Albania.”

“It was the first time I had ever seen or read anything like that because Albania banned religion under communism. I was immediately intrigued,” said Kumi. He approached the missionaries who had put the banner up. “They gave me a copy of the Bible and told me to begin with the book of John. I ended up reading the entire New Testament in just a matter of hours because I was so hungry for truth,” he said.

Kumi joined the evangelical church and became a Christian. “It’s mind-boggling to think that God would bring down an entire [communist] system just so that people like me could come to know Him,” he said.

Kumi began to pray fervently every day that God would give him his own violin. He had used various borrowed violins from schools he attended, even at Julliard. Finally in 2003, he was able to purchase his own personal violin. One day, he decided to glance inside the violin to look at the label, which included the year it was manufactured.

“I was astounded when I saw that the violin had been made in 1991 — the same year I became a Christian and had started praying for one,” said Kumi. “It just goes to show that God hears our prayers. It’s also all about His timing and being in the right place at the right time in order to receive His blessings.”

— Alyssa Applegate is a junior from Dayton, Ohio, majoring in communication arts and minoring in Spanish. Applegate is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Looking back on her four years at AU, Bird points to many influential experiences that have helped shape her into the performer she is today. [Photo on left: Senior vocal performance major Megan Bird sang several songs including Ich folge dir gleichfalls by Bach and Prendero quel brunettino by Mozart.]

“All of the shows I was able to be a part of here at Anderson were extremely beneficial,” said Bird. “They were so much fun, but also challenged me, and I know I learned something valuable from every musical and opera I was a part of.”

Bird also enjoyed being a member of AU’s Chorale. “Chorale is something that I will value for the rest of my life,” she said. “I made wonderful friends through choir and had some amazing experiences at Chorale retreats, tours, and our Scandinavian trip this past summer.”

Bird has also been deeply affected by her professors. She learned immensely from her music professors Laurel Goetzinger, Dr. Fritz Robertson, Dr. Richard Sowers, and Christopher Holmes. “They have all challenged me, encouraged me, been a friend to me, and helped mold who I am as a performer and a person,” she said.

Although all of her professors have impacted her life, Goetzinger has made a special impact on her. “She has been my voice teacher throughout my years at AU,” said Bird. “She has gone above and beyond to push, encourage, and teach me. She has made a huge impact on my life. She cares so much and is a great example professionally and personally.”

One of the highlights of Bird’s four years at AU was her senior recital. “My recital was a lot of fun for me because I picked most of the pieces I performed,” Bird said. “I feel as if there was a lot of variety and different styles showcased that day.” Bird also enjoyed collaborating with others in the duets that she performed.

“I don’t know if you will find another music school that is literally a family like you find here at AU,” Bird said. “The professors are all wonderful and truly care about their students. They are supportive and helpful as well and push you past where you thought you could go.”

Bird said AU’s School of Music stands apart from the rest for other reasons: “There isn’t the competitive pettiness that you find at other university music departments, but here everyone is supportive and all best friends.”

Bird graduated a semester early, finishing her academic career at AU in December. She plans to return to her hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio, to work in a music store. She will be giving voice lessons there, as well as auditioning for shows around the city. She recently auditioned for the Cincinnati Opera Chorus. But long-term, she has her eyes set on continuing her education.

“I want to get my master’s so I can teach at a collegiate level someday, but I might take a year off before I go,” said Bird. “I’m just trying to take one day at a time and see what happens from here.”

— Joseph Matas is a senior from Anderson, Ind., majoring in communication arts and minoring in marketing. Matas is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

“We are honored to be selected to bring a scene from Stephen Sondheim’s “Into the Woods” to this year’s KCACTF Regional Festival,” said Laurel Goetzinger, associate professor of music. “This honor brings recognition to the growth and development of our lyric theatre and theatre productions here at Anderson University. We celebrate the work of our students, colleagues, and guest artists in working together to accomplish this significant milestone.” [Photo: Scene from The Boze Lyric Theatre production "Into the Woods" at Anderson University in October 2009.]

The Region III Festival will be held January 4 – 8, 2011 with a performance from AU on January 5 at the Evening of Scenes (The Fringe). This is the highest honor afforded to an Associate Production entry, in which the full production is not competing to be considered for performance at the Regional and National Festivals. This is AU’s first recognition since participating in ACTF.

“We are honored to be recognized for the excellent work of our faculty members and students who collaborated on this production of Into the Woods,” said Dr. Jeffrey Wright, dean of the College of the Arts and chair of the School of Music. “This invitation to perform at ACTF affirms that our lyric theatre program is maturing and growing artistically. We believed this to be true, but it is gratifying when others agree and recognize those achievements.”

AU’s first entry to KCACTF was “Somewhere Over The Rainbow,” a musical revue of Harold Arlen songs, in the fall of 2003.

Started in 1969 by Roger L. Stevens, the Kennedy Center’s founding chairman, the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF) is a national theater program involving 18,000 students from colleges and universities nationwide which has served as a catalyst in improving the quality of college theater in the United States. The KCACTF has grown into a network of more than 600 academic institutions throughout the country, where theater departments and student artists showcase their work and receive outside assessment by KCACTF respondents.

—Stefanie Leiter is the Web Content Manager in the Office of University Communications at Anderson University.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Typically, the orchestra only practices about three times the week before a concert. The musicians are a mix of all ages and play all types of instruments: strings, winds, brass, and percussion. Musicians are paid to play with the orchestra, although many would do it purely for fun. [Photo on left: Val Fagan and Haley Ferguson practice their instruments on campus.]

Junior Val Fagan, a psychology major, has played the string bass in the orchestra for all three of her college years and plans to continue next year. During her freshman year, Fagan was invited by Dr. Sowers to play in the orchestra because of a shortage of string bass players. “I was thrilled and honored to be asked to play in a professional symphony,” said Fagan. “The level of music and professionalism attracted me to it and I am very grateful for the opportunity.”

Playing in the Chamber Orchestra at AU helped Fagan with the more advanced musical pieces the ASO plays. The Chamber Orchestra practices twice a week. The practices “help me to maintain my playing ability and sometimes challenge me with harder pieces that force me to work on technique,” she said.

Junior Haley Ferguson, a psychology major, also plays with the Anderson Symphony Orchestra. She has played the viola for about 10 years and has been with the orchestra since her freshman year. Sowers told her about the opportunity when she auditioned for the Chamber Orchestra on campus. “In high school, I was part of a 100-piece symphony orchestra and love the big sound, so I was immediately interested in the opportunity to become involved with ASO,” she said.

Ferguson enjoys the opportunity to improve her skills while playing in the ASO. “There is a lot to learn from the people around me, and being young and aware that I am not nearly as skilled as others is a perfect opportunity for growth,” Ferguson said. Her involvement in ASO, Chamber Orchestra, and playing for worship events on campus helps her to continually develop her musical skills. She plans to remain in the ASO through her college years and continue to play the viola after college. “I will never part from music,” she said. “I value it so much. The viola is sticking with me for the long haul.”

Junior Ben Rexroth has been a substitute violinist for the Anderson Symphony Orchestra for the past year and a half. Rexroth, who is majoring in finance and business information systems, has been playing the violin for 15 years and is also a part of the Chamber Orchestra at AU.

Rexroth also learned about the ASO from Dr. Sowers and said he “wanted to do it for the experience” because few college students get this kind of opportunity. He said it can be a big commitment during the week of a performance, but he “would love to keep doing it next year as long as other activities don’t get in the way.” The other orchestra members have made it a positive experience for him as well. “I always feel welcome there. I definitely feel younger and less experienced,” he said, “but I never feel as if the other members look down on me because of it.”

For each of these students, playing in the Anderson Symphony Orchestra is a unique and unforgettable experience. Their participation in orchestra on campus is beneficial to their preparation for playing in a higher-level orchestra. Both AU and the Anderson Symphony Orchestra help them develop their musical talents and create memories they will not forget.

— Alyssa Applegate is a junior from Dayton, Ohio, majoring in communication arts and minoring in Spanish. Applegate is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2009, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the sixth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Not only is the Anderson University music education major set to perform on the euphonium with the AU wind ensemble during the 46th annual “Candles and Carols” Christmas program, but she will also help move the group on and off the stage in her role as an assistant.

At the concert’s midpoint, she will shift focus as a performer with the AU dance ensemble.

“It makes for an interesting evening,” she said, laughing.

Vogler, a junior from Portland, Ind., said she had always had a dueling interest in the two distinct disciplines.

“I’m actually a dance minor, so I try to get involved with as much of the dance stuff as I can,” she explained. “I’ve always played in wind ensemble, because euphonium is my primary instrument.”

Vogler said she also has experience singing in choirs, another component of the “Candles and Carols” program, but she won’t be showing up later in the show to join the singers.

“I figured that would be way too much to be involved in,” Vogler said, laughing.

Interest in music and education comes to Vogler naturally; her father is Pete Vogler, longtime band director at Jay County High School.

“My dad was part of the reason I went to school for music education,” she said. “I’m out to be a band director, just like him.”

Her interest comes with disappointment, though, at the way music and other arts have been dropped from public schools.

“So many schools are shooting themselves in the foot, as far as I’m concerned,” Vogler said. “Along with being a creative outlet for students, (music) can unite everything in the public schools: science, English, math, pretty much everything. It’s just a shame that they’re cutting out something that can make everything so integral.”

If you go
What: 46th annual Candles and Carols Christmas Program
Where: Reardon Auditorium, Anderson University
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Admission: free
For information: AU School of Music, 641-4450, or visit the Candles and Carols website.
To be videotaped and broadcast nationally on PBS and regional networks.

Program

• Welcome, Jeffrey E. Wright, dean, AU College of the Arts
• “Rejoice,” Wind Ensemble
• “Joy to the World”
• Lesson: The Angel Gabriel Visits Mary, Luke 1:26-35
• “Beatus auctor sæculi” (sung in Latin), Chorale
• “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus”
• “Advent,” (sung in Latin), Men’s Choir; Gert Kumi, violin; Randall Frieling, piano
• “O Magnum Mysterium,” (sung in Latin), Women’s Chorus
• Lesson: The Birth of Jesus, Luke 2:1-7
• “Children’s Song,” Wind Ensemble
• “Make We Joy,” (sung in Latin and English), Chorale and Percussion
• “He Is Born,” Chorus
• “Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day,” Women’s Chorus
• “God Rest Ye, Merry Gentleman,” Wind Ensemble
• “The First Noel”
• “Hope for Resolution,” (sung in English and Zulu), Combined Choirs, Percussion, Dance Ensemble
• “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks”
• “Greensleeves,” Chamber Orchestra
• Lesson: The Angels and Shepherds, Luke 2:8-16
• “Bring a Torch, Jeannette Isabella,” Men’s Choir
• “I Saw Three Ships: A Celtic Christmas Celebration,” Women’s Chorus and Instrumental Ensemble
• Manger Medley, Gert Kumi, violin; Randall Frieling, piano
• “In the Bleak Midwinter,” Chorale
• Lesson: The Word Became Flesh, John 1:1-5; 10-14
• “Winter,” from “The Four Seasons,” Chamber Orchestra, Gert Kumi, violin
• “We Three Kings,” Combined Choirs, Orchestra and audience
• Christmas Greeting, Dr. James L. Edwards, president, Anderson University
• “Silent Night”
• Benediction, Dr. James L. Edwards
• “Joy to the World,” Randall Frieling

—Rodney Richey is a reporter for The Herald Bulletin. Story republished with permission.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

“All of us in the School of Music are so pleased and honored to be recognized by Billboard for the strength of our music business program,” said Dr. Jeffrey E. Wright, dean of the Anderson University College of the Arts. “The faculty members who lead this program are innovative and creative teachers who constantly work to keep our program relevant, vibrant, and growing. I am pleased that their excellent work has been acknowledged in this way.”

“We are honored that Billboard has included our music business program in their guide to music business schools,” said Dr. Rebecca Chappell, director of the Orangehaus Music Business Camp and AU professor of music. “It’s always gratifying when your educational efforts are recognized by professionals in the industry, especially when it’s the premiere trade magazine for music business.”

Anderson University offers a music business major and minor through the School of Music and a music business concentration for marketing majors. In addition, AU has offered the Orangehaus Music Business Camp each summer since 2008. The camp is designed for high school students, ages 14-18, to learn the necessary skills leading to a successful career in the music industry. Visit www.musicbusinesscamp.com for more information on the July 11-16, 2011 camp or register here.

The one-week summer camp is a forum for students to learn how to record, engineer/produce, and market a professional demo. Classes are available in ProTools technology, artist development, songwriting, Internet marketing, live performance workshop, digital distribution, and more. Instructors are award-winning music industry professionals who have worked with artists such as Taylor Swift, Casting Crowns, Dave Barnes, Thousand Foot Krutch, and Jon McLaughlin.

“Anderson University does not want our music business students to wait four years before they have an opportunity to apply their craft,” said Dr. Terry Truitt, dean of the Falls School of Business. “The School of Music and the Falls School of Business have students actually doing things in their field during their first year, even in their first semester.”

Location: Anderson, Ind.
Tuition: $23,940/year
Department Head: Jeffrey E. Wright
Director of Music Studies: Rebecca Chappell
Courses of Interest: “Beyond Talent Entrepreneurship for Musicians,” “Booking and Concert Promotion”
Average Class Size: 15-30
Relevant Extracurricular Activities: Orangehaus Records, Orangehaus Publishing
University/Program Admission Rate: 73% / 69%

Curious to hear what a music business major has to say about the program? Read Joshua Powell’s AU blog entry through the Office of Admissions.

— Stefanie Leiter is the Web Content Manager in the Office of University Communications at Anderson University.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Larry Seibert joins the Falls School of Business as an assistant professor of marketing. He comes to AU with 15 years of teaching experience at universities such as Purdue University North Central, Indiana University Northwest and University of Central Oklahoma. “My goal is to enable my students to be the best corporate leaders they can be, and my focus is on the marketing portion of their preparation,” said Siebert.

In addition to his teaching experience, Seibert has 20 years of experience in business and held many different positions including president and CEO of his own research and consulting firm. “With my years of hiring and supervising young business professionals, I have a pretty good idea of the skills necessary to succeed,” he said. “Those are the skills I develop in my students through the assignments and my lectures.” He has also done research for various membership associations including the American Dental Association and the Public Library Association, making recommendations on how to improve as organizations and draw in new members. He currently conducts his own research concerning the generational differences between members of these groups.

Christopher Holmes is the newest addition to the School of Music after being an adjunct professor here for the past three years. “I’ve had many good students who are enthusiastic about the topics and material,” said Holmes. “I enjoy teaching music in a liberal arts college, particularly given the way I understand music.”

Holmes is currently pursuing his doctorate in musicology through Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. His research focuses primarily on English music composers and European music after World War II. He uses literature and philosophy as different ways of interpreting and understanding the music. “I see music as part of a larger intellectual and cultural climate and as a liberal art that is part of the humanities. I have a sort of humanistic way of looking at it,” Holmes said.

Lynn Schmidt is the new graduate programs coordinator for the School of Nursing. She works with potential and current graduate nursing students and teaches classes at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Schmidt recently earned her master’s in Nursing Education from Ball State University. She completed the practicum for her master’s degree at AU’s School of Nursing, which is what brought her back here.

“Working with the students, staff and faculty was a very positive and rewarding experience,” Schmidt said. She is currently working on her dissertation, which spotlights the impact of trans-cultural educational experiences on the nursing practice.

Cheryl Vincent is another new member in the School of Nursing. Vincent has a master’s degree in Nursing Education and her field of expertise is pediatrics and obstetrics. She worked as a staff development coordinator for hospital systems for several years and served students as a school nurse while teaching health classes for kindergarten through eighth graders.

“Nursing is a wonderful calling and I want my students to be excited about it, so I work diligently at creating a learning environment that is active and interesting,” said Vincent. “I come with a great deal of ‘real world’ nursing experience, and I believe I can pass my love of children and my clinical talent onto our students here at AU.” Vincent also serves as a training center faculty member for the American Heart Association where she instructs CPR classes and Pediatric Advanced Life Support classes.

Jason Pierce is the third new faculty member in the School of Nursing. He earned both his Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Business Administration at Anderson University. He was excited to come back because he loved the people and the size of the campus. “AU is a friendlier organization than others and a better fit for me all around,” said Pierce. In the classroom, Pierce likes to incorporate hands-on experience with regular academia. “Having students connect those two gets them involved early on and helps them to apply their knowledge quicker,” he stated. “It allows them to be able to take care of patients on their own.”

Pierce is also currently an editor for the American Nurse’s Association’s online course. He puts together material for the review course on the Pediatric Emergency Nurse Certification exam and edits the content.

- Alyssa Applegate is a junior from Dayton, Ohio, majoring in Communication Arts and minoring in Spanish. Applegate is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.