What's it like to be a professional clarinetist and clarinet professor at Colorado State University? Recently, Assistant Professor of Clarinet Wesley Ferreira wore a GoPro for an entire day, so now you can find out! From arriving at work and morning practice, rehearsing for the Faculty Chamber Ensemble concert, Graduate Clarinet Quartet coaching and other lessons, a stop at The Music District, Fort Collins Symphony rehearsal, and even an office barista moment, enjoy “a day in the life of” Dr. Wesley Ferreira.
Dr. Grapes with music students at Spring 2016 Commencement
It was recently announced by Dan Goble, director of the School of Music, Theatre and Dance, that Dr. Dawn Grapes, assistant professor of music history accepted his invitation to serve as the coordinator of undergraduate studies for the school. Recognizing the outstanding work already done for the School of Music, Theatre and Dance (SMTD) by Dr. Grapes over the past several years, the position formalizes her charge moving forward as SMTD negotiates significant curricular changes. “It is very important to clearly identify an individual capable of and willing to facilitate these initiatives,” said Dr. Goble. “Dr. Grapes has proven to excel at managing the intricacies of the curricular process at CSU, and I know that we are all grateful for her service in this regard.”
Wes Kenney, Music Director of DYAO
On Nov. 14, Denver Mayor Michael Hancock, Denver Arts and Venues, and the Denver Commission on Cultural Affairs announced the 2016 Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts and Culture, an annual presentation since 1986; the Denver Young Artists Orchestra (DYAO) received the Arts and Culture Global Award. As DYAO’s music director for four seasons, CSU Director of Orchestras Wes Kenney and DYAO Executive Director Kelly Waltrip accepted the award at the ceremony. According to the Denver Arts and Venues website, the “award is presented to an individual or organization that has brought Denver’s arts and culture to the national or world stage. Nominees for this category have received national or international recognition through collaboration, media coverage, or grant dollars received.” DYAO works with young people in the Front Range area ages 7-23 in group string instrument classes and youth orchestra programs, providing high level music education and world-class opportunities for students to work with top teachers and coaches, offering accessible concerts to the community. Last summer, Maestro Kenney took the ensemble to Carnegie Hall in N.Y. to perform two concerts. Additional CSU connections to DYAO include CSU Special Assistant Professor Adam Torres, who serves as DYAO’s assistant conductor.
Watch DYAO's story here: