University of Indianapolis
American Pianists Association and University of Indianapolis strengthen an educational partnership at the end of September, when Drew Petersen, the 2017 American Pianists Awards winner, kicks off a two-year residency at the University. From September 25-29, 2017, Drew will engage with UIndy music students in a masterclass, various educational and social occasions, and give a solo recital. The recital is Monday, September 25 at 7:30pm at the University’s Christel DeHaan Fine Arts Center.
Drew's recital program predominantly celebrates American music of the 20th century, including piano sonatas of Samuel Barber, Elliott Carter and Charles Ives; and a set of rarely-heard Fantasy Pieces by Charles Tomlinson Griffes. The program opens with Judith Zaimont’s Attars, commissioned by American Pianists Association for the five 2017 finalists to perform in their New Music Recital during Discovery Week in April. Drew will record this complete program for his debut solo album on the Steinway & Sons label in October 2017.
Drew's week-long stay at University of Indianapolis is a result of deep collaboration between the school and American Pianists Association, one which will benefit both institutions. The partnership will provide university music students with an invaluable opportunity to hear a pianist of the highest caliber and to learn from and get to know Drew in one-on-one settings over two years. For American Pianists Association, the residency program not only provides additional performance and teaching opportunities for Drew, but a deeper experience in the greater Indianapolis community.
Here is University of Indianapolis president Robert Manuel discussing the University's music program, the partnership with American Pianists Association and the impact of the arts.
Robert Manuel came to the University of Indianapolis in July 2012 from Georgetown University, where he was associate provost and dean of the School of Continuing Studies. As a higher education administrator, first at New York University and then at Georgetown, he has been recognized for his development and implementation of innovative academic programming–including graduate, undergraduate, online, and customized educational programs. Robert has a bachelor’s degree in History and Political Science from Allegheny College, a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from Syracuse University and a doctorate in Higher Education Administration from New York University.
We also learned that Robert plays piano. Asked for his favorite composer he immediately offers his choice: "I love the lyrical nature of Mendelssohn--how it moves me when I’m sitting at the piano." (find American Pianists Awards artists performing Mendelssohn here) In the following clip he discusses 2017 American Pianists Awards, Drew Petersen and music. Will he try out the keys? Watch and find out!
Great sentiments from a great partner. Maybe next time we will hear him play piano! Thanks to Robert Manuel and the University of Indianapolis. We are excited for two years of learning!
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