NW Missouri Times

Northwest Missouri State University's Department of Fine and Performing Arts is set to host a series of guest musician events in March. These include lectures and recitals aimed at providing students and the community with access to high-quality performances.

Dr. Rachel Day, chair of the department, emphasized the importance of these events, stating, “When we bring in guest artists for recitals, we are looking to expand opportunities for our students and the community to experience high-quality performances by performers who may not usually visit Maryville.” She added that these events enrich the community and demonstrate professional careers and performances to students.

The guest appearances are funded by a grant from the Missouri Arts Council. All events are free and open to the public.

Trombonist David Vining will conduct lectures on March 5 and 6 at Northwest's Charles Johnson Theater. Vining, associated with Northern Arizona University and founder of Mountain Peak music publishing company, focuses on innovative teaching methods for musicians. Dr. William Sutton noted Vining’s diverse experiences will benefit the music area significantly.

Duo LoW, featuring Sutton and Dr. Ling Lo from the University of North Dakota, will perform works including Sergei Prokofiev’s “Romeo and Juliet.”

On March 29, Rion Towery will present an afternoon of musical theater at Northwest's Charles Johnson Theater. The performance includes songs from both classic composers like George Gershwin and contemporary figures such as Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Dr. Anthony Olson will lead "A Baroque Celebration: The Genius of Georg Philipp Telemann" on March 30. Olson will be joined by other musicians in performing works by Telemann.

Finally, Nation, comprising Jocelyn Hagen and Timothy Takach, will participate in conjunction with the Four-State Honor Choir Invitational on March 31 and April 1. Adam Zrust highlighted this as an opportunity for students to work with leading American composers.