Concordia hosts successful Piano Day event for high school musicians

Concordia University, Nebraska has been hosting very successful National Honor Band and National Honor Choir Days for high school students from around the country for years. The music department wanted to host a day for young pianists as well, and now that the institution is home to some of the finest pianos in the state and at other institutions of similar size, the faculty decided to start the event this year. 

Professor of music Dr. Elizabeth Grimpo led the organization efforts for the event, with support from music department chair Dr. Kurt von Kampen and Concordia University events manager Crissy Anson. 

The day featured a variety of different instructional sessions, masterclasses and a closing recital. There were also opportunities for the students to observe a choir rehearsal and practice on the pianos in the facility.  

"Music is such a blessing in this life, and being able to inspire young musicians is not a small thing.  To communicate our passion to them, to motivate them to want to practice and improve, to give them a chance to play on Steinway pianos, all within an atmosphere of encouragement and Christian kindness were my goals for the day.  Thanks to everyone who helped, I think we succeeded."

Concordia adjunct professors of music Dr. Cristina Hayes and Calvin Rhode along with students Timothy Mars and Joshua Jurchen assisted with the sessions and performed in the recital.  

Twenty high school students from the Nebraska area and one from Minnesota participated in the event. The event was a success, and the department plans to continue the event annually. 

Dr. Grimpo said, “Music is such a blessing in this life, and being able to inspire musicians is not a small thing. To communicate our passion to them, to motivate them to want to practice and improve, to give them a chance to play on Steinway pianos, all within an atmosphere of encouragement and Christian kindness were my goals for the day. Thanks to everyone who helped, I think we succeeded.” 

Concordia University, Nebraska’s music programs offer rigorous preparation to glorify God in your future vocations through the study and performance of music. Through applied lessons, participation in one or more of our outstanding ensembles or academic music pursuits, hundreds of students of any major can make great music and lifelong friendships at Concordia. Learn more about music at Concordia here.