In its first truly livestreamed production, the Department of Music will present its annual “Spotlight” concert on Monday, March 8, performed live from the stage of the Anne R. Belk Theater in Robinson Hall and streamed simultaneously on Vimeo. Featuring music majors in solo performances, the program celebrates student achievement.
“While the pandemic experience has asked of all of us many unexpected things, the musical and artistic communities have been especially challenged to discover new ways of producing our work,” said Dr. Joseph Skillen, chair of the Department of Music. “Fortunately, Niners persevere! That Niner spirit has been present with our students who diligently practice while they continue to experiment with new ways to record and present their performances. Our faculty have been equally creative and tenacious in working to provide the best virtual alternatives for the critical face-to-face instruction artistic endeavors require.”
Students majoring in a wide range of instruments, from piano and violin to trumpet, percussion, and euphonium, will perform music by J.S. Bach, Frédéric Chopin, Claude Debussy, Antonín Dvořák, and William Grant Still, among others. Voice students will sing music from the musical Ragtime and the opera Carmen. The UNC Charlotte Jazz Combo will close the concert with "Witch Hunt" by Wayne Shorter.
The music department plans to present livestreamed concerts by large ensembles – bands, orchestra, and choruses – in April and May.
“Spotlight” will stream live at 7:30 pm. Tickets are required for the Vimeo access and are "Pay What You Can." All ticket revenue supports the Department of Music scholarship fund.
Pictured: Violinist Jane Parris, a senior music major. Photo by Daniel Coston.