By Kyle Wallace, Staff Writer
Undergraduate students are expected to complete a comprehensive assignment at the end of their four years at OCU, but music performance majors must complete two recitals before they can walk across the stage donned in a robe and mortarboard.
Music performance juniors and seniors must give recitals to fulfill degree requirements.
One recital must be performed during the students’ junior year and a second one during their senior year.
The junior recital is limited to 30 minutes, but junior students may join together to perform. For many students, junior recitals focus on classical works and the technique they have learned over the past three years.
Senior recitals can only count for one student, but they may feature other students that perform as well.
Senior year recitals often are focused on the unique talents of the performer, with students choosing pieces that showcase their individual style and talent.
The student works with a faculty member from their field, either instrumental or vocal, to select music pieces for both of their recitals.
“The preparation wasn’t easy, but I believe the final product was worth the work,” said Selena Gilliam, vocal performance junior. “I organized my pieces by period and composer, and was able to arrange four contrasting language sets.”
The students also plan the logistical elements of their recital such as programs, scheduling and video recording on their own.
Students are allowed to choose who they invite to their recitals. The list often includes family and friends from across the country.
The performance is meant to give students the experience of performing for an audience, and a chance to demonstrate skill.
“Giving a recital is the most difficult thing I’ve done as a performer,” said Julianne Reynolds, music senior. “Recitals are a big part of being a professional musician of any kind.”
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