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PUBLISHED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA–LINCOLN HIXSON-LIED COLLEGE OF FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS www.unl.edu/finearts SUMMER 2011 Fine & Performing Arts F&PANewsletter Oliva leaves for vice president spot at FIT Giacomo M. “Jack” Oliva, endowed dean of the successful dean in every way,” Weissinger said. real world, including how to find an agent, how Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing “Jack’s leadership resulted in high expectations to read certain types of contracts and copyright Arts, announced his resignation to become and high morale within the College. He created considerations. The course begins this Fall. vice president for academic affairs at the a national model for the relevance and centrality “This is just one example of the many Fashion Institute of of the fine and performing arts at a major connections that Jack has made across the Technology (F.I.T.) at research university. Jack leaves behind a strong campus,” Poser said. “Jack has managed the the State University College with a bright future. He also leaves College with a steady hand and a sharp eye for of New York. Oliva behind a great many friends who will miss his collaborative opportunities with other units has been dean of warmth and genuineness.” on campus and beyond. On a personal level, Fine and Performing Weissinger announced at Oliva’s farewell Jack has been a great friend and colleague, and Arts since 2001. His reception May 31 that his colleagues had voted I will miss him. It is not surprising that he has last day at UNL was to name him Dean Emeritus of the Hixson-Lied been offered this position at F.I.T. I am very June 5. College of Fine and Performing Arts. happy for him and his family that they can “It’s been a Susan Poser, Dean and Richard and return to New York where they will be closer to privilege to be here. Catherine Schmoker Professor of Law, said, family, and I wish him all the best on this new Every job that you Oliva “Jack has been a transformative dean of the adventure. Jack is one of a kind.” get is a blessing. It’s Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing During his tenure at UNL, Oliva worked an opportunity,” Oliva said. “This was and has Arts. He has created many cutting-edge with Chancellor Harvey Perlman and been a terrific opportunity to become a part of multidisciplinary programs.” University of Nebraska Foundation Vice something to make contributions, and I’m just Poser and Oliva collaborated to create a Chairman Terry Fairfield to establish the grateful for it.” course called The Legal and Business Side of Hixson-Lied Endowment Advisory Board, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Ellen Creative Activity. The course, taught by a law a 10-member external board that oversees Weissinger said the College’s associate dean, professor who is also a prize-winning novelist the awarding of funds from the Hixson- Christin Mamiya, Hixson-Lied professor of Art and screenwriter, will give students in the Lied Endowment. This $18 million gift from and Art History, will serve as interim dean. creative arts an opportunity to learn about the “Jack Oliva has been an exceptionally practical aspects of practicing their craft in the (Continued on page 4) 3 degrees, 3 conferences for 1 music alum Lincoln East Band Director Lance Nielsen the marching band at Stromsburg High School. has a unique distinction. This August he will He served as drum major his junior and senior Welcome to the Big Ten! receive his third degree from the University of years of high school. Nebraska–Lincoln, but each degree has come “That got me interested in doing music and The University of Nebraska–Lincoln officially with a different conference affiliation. becoming a band director,” Nielsen said. became a member of the Big Ten Conference “I never intended to get three degrees from He decided to attend the University of on July 1, 2011. one institution. But I am getting three degrees Nebraska–Lincoln to pursue a bachelor’s degree The Big Ten from three different conferences, and I never had in music education. Conference is a to pay out-of-state tuition,” Nielsen said. “I wanted to stay in the state of Nebraska, union of world- Nielsen received his Bachelor of Science and I thought they had the most comprehensive class academic in Music Education from the University of program at that time.” institutions who Nebraska–Lincoln in 1991, when UNL was a Professor Emeritus Vernon Forbes also share a common member of the Big Eight Conference. In 1998, he influenced him. mission of received his Master of Music degree while UNL “I remember taking lessons from him when research, graduate, was a member of the Big 12 Conference. And this I was still in high school. He was just a great professional and August, he will receive his Ph.D. in Music from professor,” he said. “We developed a close undergraduate UNL just after it joins the Big Ten Conference. relationship. As my applied music teacher, he teaching and “We’re going to see some new traditions knew I wanted to be a band director, so a lot of public service. being started in the Big Ten,” he said. “We’ll what he taught me in my private lessons was Big Ten universities, along with the have some new collaborations and some new about ‘This is what you need to do as a band University of Chicago, make up the Committee places to visit. I think it’s going to be exciting.” director.’” on Institutional Cooperation (CIC), a Nielsen grew up in Stromsburg, Neb., a Nielsen participated in the UNL Marching consortium formed in 1958 as the conference’s rural community of about 1,200 located about 30 Band during his five years as an undergraduate, academic counterpart. miles north of York, Neb., on Highway 81. To learn more about the CIC, visit http:// go.unl.edu/cic_info. He learned to play the trombone and was in (Continued on page 6) NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 From the Dean’s Desk Dear Friends, The event took the form of an afternoon and as our Associate Dean for the past two years evening festival of music that was held out on as well. I am fully confident that she will do an Once again it is early June, and I find myself East Campus, and that offered attendees the excellent job in leading the College throughout sharing the news about another very successful opportunity to tour a variety of campus venues, this period of transition. year for UNL’s Hixson-Lied College of Fine and while also enjoying chamber music performances It goes without saying that it has been an Performing Arts. As you browse through this by student chamber music groups, great food, honor and privilege to serve as your Dean issue of our Alumni specially-made ice cream from our campus Dairy during this most exciting period of growth Newsletter, you will find Store and this year’s final Meadowlark Music and expansion for our College. Ours is a great interesting stories about Festival concert by Dave Eggar and his band College that continues on an upward trajectory, our new and retiring Deoro. The entire day was a resounding success, due in large measure to the outstanding work faculty, our exciting and conversations are already taking place about of our faculty, students and, of course, you, new Community Arts next year’s event and how it could be expanded. our alumni. To be sure, Dottie and I will miss Internship Program It is in this year’s Dean’s column that I also you all and this University more than we can funded by the Hixson- want to share the news that this was my last year say, as both Lincoln and UNL have been good Lied Endowment, the as your Dean. Several months ago, I was offered to us. Without a doubt, leading this College premiere of our first an opportunity to join the senior leadership team has been the most challenging and rewarding Johnny Carson Film Oliva at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in career experience that I have ever had, and I Series piece Vipers in New York City as Vice President for Academic will be ever grateful to all of you for what you the Grass, our latest Capital Campaign progress Affairs. To be honest, I was not entirely sure at have done for the College and for the support report, our annual Honors Day festivities, and first if the position was something that I would you have given me as your Dean for the past some very well deserved Downbeat awards be interested in, or for that matter, aptly suited 10 years. And, make no mistake. . . no matter garnered by our top-notch jazz program. It for. But after much serious thought, and many how busy I get with my work in New York, I certainly has been a busy year! late night conversations with my wife, Dottie, will always be watching and listening from afar, As you know, arts outreach and engagement we came to the conclusion that considering both expecting to hear continuing good news about has been a priority for our College for the past the position and its location in New York City how the Hixson-Lied College is continuing to 10 years, and to further expand our connections (which some of you know is “home” for us), the distinguish itself as it moves forward. with the Lincoln community, we launched a offer was something we just could not pass up. special new venture this year in the form of a I accepted the position in early May, and will With gratitude and warmest best wishes, multi-faceted collaboration between our annual be starting my work at FIT sometime in July. School of Music Chamber Music Institute, Hixson-Lied Professor of Art History Christin the Meadowlark Music Festival and our UNL Mamiya will be serving as Interim Dean for the colleagues in the College of Agricultural coming academic year. For more than 20 years, Giacomo M. Oliva Sciences and Natural Resources and the Christin has distinguished herself as a teacher Hixson-Lied Endowed Dean Institute for Agriculture and Natural Resources. and scholar, and has done an outstanding job Philgreen wins Singer of the Year at regional NATS The School of Music had 30 finalists, as well “Cami is a phenomenally talented young as Singer of the Year honors, at the 2010 West woman,” Belflower said. “She lights up the Central Regional National Association of Teachers stage with her sparkling personality and Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts Alumni Newsletter • Summer 2011 of Singing (NATS) Vocal Auditions Nov. 4-6 at charismatic energy. She employs a unique brand http://www.unl.edu/finearts Colorado State University in Fort of fearlessness in creating an art that audiences http://www.facebook.com/HLCFPA 102 Woods Art Building Collins, Colo. devour. There is every reason to believe Cami has Lincoln, NE 68588-0144 Cami Philgreen, who a bright future.” (402) 472-9339 received her Bachelor of Music In total, UNL had 30 finalists at the Dean Emeritus degree in May and is from auditions, the most of any other participating Giacomo M. Oliva Manchester, Iowa, received 2010 school, along with 27 semi-finalists. More Interim Dean Singer of the Year special honors. than 429 students representing 25 colleges Christin J. Mamiya She was selected from the 29 Philgreen and universities in the region competed in the Editor upper level finalists. Philgreen auditions. Kathe C. Andersen was a student of Senior Lecturer Other accolades for UNL included: College Administration John Bailey, Interim Associate Dean Alisa Belflower, the coordinator of UNL’s Musical • UNL won 18 of the 40 undergraduate Peter Pinnell, Interim Chairman, Theatre Studies. awards presented for classical vocal performance. Department of Art and Art History John W. Richmond, Director, School of Music • UNL won four of eight first place awards Paul Steger, Director, Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film for undergraduate classical singing. • UNL won 12 of 20 musical theatre awards F&PA Alumni Board Kate Brooke John Heineman presented. Lucy Buntain Comine, Lance Nielsen Univ. of Nebr. Foundation Jamie Reimer • UNL won all five first place awards Adrienne Dickson Lenette Schwinn presented for musical theatre performance. Leta Powell Drake Carol Thompson Steve Gaines Valery Wachter “These students have enhanced UNL’s reputation and given us all reasons to be proud of Hixson-Lied Advisory Board what they have accomplished,” Belflower said. Deon Bahr Harvey S. Perlman, Chancellor Terry L. Fairfield James W. Strand The NATS was founded in 1944 and is now Christina M. Hixson Dr. Frank Tirro Visit us at Heather Jones Susan Varner Wilkins the largest association of teachers of singing in Christin J. Mamiya www.facebook.com/ the world. The West Central Region includes Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska and Wyoming. It is the policy of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln not to discriminate based upon age, race, ethnicity, color, national origin, gender, sex, pregnancy, HLCFPA For a full listing of finalists, visit: disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran’s status, marital go.unl.edu/nats2010. status, religion or political affiliation.

2 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011

First Hixson-Lied Visual Artist in residence The Department of Art and Art History initiated Borovski said Aschheim was their new Hixson-Lied Visual Artist in Residence inspirational. Program with Deborah Aschheim, who was on “I like the formality of interacting campus for a 10-week residency this winter. with an artist that’s outside of an Aschheim was assigned a working studio institutional system,” she said. “She’s in the department during her visit, from Jan. making it her own. It’s inspiring to 18-March 18, where students could observe and know that if you’re tenacious and interact with her on a regular basis. She also engaged, you can do the same.” lectured, gave presentations and led discussions Another project, Aschheim in art classes. collaborated with students on was for a She met with students in drawing, sculpture, project entitled “The Space I’m In” for painting and digital arts classes, and had regular the Mattress Factory in Pittsburgh for critiques with graduate students. She also met their education program. with students in a psychology class. For her part of the project, “In school, the professors teach them Aschheim focused on remembering things, they learn, and they get paid in grades,” spaces, so they bought various kinds of Aschheim said. “I’m trying to do things where cameras. we’re working together more hands on or Hixson-Lied Visiting Artist Deborah Aschheim (left) “Some were designed for collaborating or learning more directly from each demonstrates LED wiring for undergraduate students Matt Alzheimer’s patients to wear and take other. I thought it was a really nice model. It Belk (middle) and Alex Borovski (right). pictures throughout their day when shows a kind of trust that the artist doesn’t need various sensors are triggered so they to be tied down to a bunch of pre-determined for my 25 favorite words, so that if anything could review them later and hopefully help goals. I liked that.” happened to my memory or language, I could them get more experiences into their memory,” Aschheim was selected from 88 applicants express myself by singing these songs they wrote Aschheim said. “Some are these weird cameras for the Hixson-Lied Visiting Artist opportunity. for me.” that a guy in the Netherlands makes that are for She saw an announcement about it through the Over a period of a couple of years, cats so you can see what your cat did that day.” College Art Association. Mezzacappa wrote and recorded 18 songs with She recruited Department of Art and Art “It seemed like a cool opportunity to me about a dozen other Bay area musicians. History students to wear them around campus as because usually the responsibilities and schedule “They sent me the recordings, and I liked they went about their lives and to think of other of the artist are very prescribed,” she said. “You them so much, I started making sculptures to ways to use them. propose a workshop or you teach a class. I really play them,” she said. “So this project just evolved “They payoff is they get named on the liked how open-ended this was, and it allowed and evolved.” project as a consultant,” she said. “Some could for more organic action to happen.” The Kohler exhibition will be the third time use it in their work.” Most recently, Aschheim served as the she has presented the piece. Borovski also helped with the camera Hellman Visiting Artist in the Department of “For this installation, it’s going to be even project. Neurology’s Memory and Aging Center at the more complex. It’s in a long hallway, so we will “It’s a passive way to be engaged in the University of California in San Francisco. Since control how the viewer experiences it as they project,” Borovski said. “I can wear the camera 2006, she has been trying to understand memory move in the space,” she said. while I’m at work or while I paint and then go and forgetting, a project that has led her to During her residency, she met two back and see how my painting changed.” collaborate with musicians and neuroscientists. undergraduate students in the Department of Art Aschheim said these kind of experiences She has created temporary and permanent and Art History, Alex Borovski and Matt Belk, benefit the students. installations for museums, galleries and public who wanted to learn how the LED and electronics “Part of why you choose a Research I spaces across the United States and in Europe, worked in her piece. University is that you’re hoping you’ll participate including the Mattress Factory in Pittsburgh, “I didn’t know she was the visiting artist in actual research that’s going to be used in the Laguna Art Museum in Laguna Beach, Calif., and when I first met her,” Belk said. “She’s a fountain world as opposed to a more teaching-based the Weatherspoon Museum in Greensboro, N.C. of knowledge. She can answer any of the program, where it’s just about you learning skills During her residency, she worked on an questions that I’ve always wondered about the and doing exercises,” she said. “They’re doing installation for an exhibition entitled “Hiding aspects of the art community, especially the social something that’s going to actually change the Places: Memory in the Arts” at the John Michael aspects that really I had no idea about.” direction of the project.” Kohler Arts Center in Sheboygan, Wis., June- Both welcomed the opportunity to learn The students hope the Hixson-Lied Visiting December 2011. something new from Aschheim. Artist program continues. Aschheim has collaborated with musician “Regardless of whether it applies to your “For us, it was great for us to interact with Lisa Mezzacappa on the project. work or not, it’s always great to learn new skills,” her,” Borovski said. “Otherwise, visiting artists “When I first met her, one of the things I was Borovski said. “I’m doing primarily paintings just come and go, but with this program, we can thinking of doing was to back up my memory, so now and trying to do installations. I don’t know if develop more of a personal relationship than that if anything happened to my brain, I could the LEDs will come in handy or not.” someone who is just teaching a class or someone maybe back it up like I back up my hard drive,” But Aschheim told them you never know. who will give us a grade.” she said. “There’s a history of Alzheimer’s and “Right now, we’re just doing them for fun, Aschheim agreed. other dementia in my family.” but once you’re out in the real world trying to “You’re not working with me because you Both Mezzacappa and Aschheim had read an figure out what your art is, you don’t really had a hole in your schedule, and you needed article by Dr. Oliver Sacks in the New Yorker that know. These categories only exist here so that four credits or something,” she said. “In that way, talked about stroke patients who lost their ability the funding can get divided up fairly. There is it’s more like interactions you have outside of to speak, but they could still express themselves no need for the categories out in the real world. school and wanting it to be a real exchange. I get because they could remember words that were I collaborate with musicians. I collaborate with to know them on a deeper level and see not just embedded in song lyrics. neurosurgeons. None of these boundaries have to what their work looks like, but what their projects “I wanted to get musicians to write songs be respected.” are really about.”

3 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Oliva departure (Continued from page 1)

Christina M. Hixson and the Lied Foundation the College nationally Trust provides support for faculty, students known, but also then and programs. Since 2002, the Endowment has structure processes that awarded more than $3.5 million in grants. can be operative over “It’s not to say that the College couldn’t a long period of time have succeeded and become visible on its own into the future built on merit, but what the endowment has done is the philosophy of what enable us to do some things that some of our this money is supposed colleagues nationally are unable to do,” Oliva to do and what it’s not said. “It’s brought us faculty and students from there for.” places that might not have come here. When I Pete Pinnell, look back on the 10 years, I believe the gift from Hixson-Lied Professor Christina has done exactly what she wanted it of Art and Interim Chair to do, to provide funding for special programs of the Department of Art that would not have been possible without the and Art History, said enhancement funding that the endowment Oliva’s leadership in provides.” guiding the principles Paul Steger, Director of the Johnny Carson and procedures of School of Theatre and Film, said Oliva’s the Hixson-Lied management of the Hixson-Lied Endowment Endowment were provided faculty, staff and students with a wide important. range of opportunties. “I’ve had the honor Sr. Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Ellen Weissinger (right) announces “From domestic and international study/ of spending many that Giacomo Oliva has been named Dean Emeritus of the Hixson-Lied travel grants to programmatic support for years on the College College of Fine and Performing Arts at his farewell reception May 31 at the new initiatives that help support the vision Executive Committee Van Brunt Visitors Center. Photo by Tom Slocum. and aspirations of each of the constituencies, with Jack, and it’s been Jack, in my opinion, really paved the way. It’s his ability to collaborate with other Colleges an education, in the very best sense of that word. been a good experience. We’re really going to in the University system has helped the units Jack has a terrific way of analyzing situations miss Jack. And what I’m going to miss most, he forge new alliances, new initiatives and new and evaluating potential solutions, and I’ve really appreciates and values the importance of priorities,” Steger said. “Because of Jack’s learned a great deal from watching him work,” outreach and understands how he can help get leadership and management of the Endowment, Pinnell said. “His careful, thoughtful leadership his students into communities that will not only students have opportunities to exceed our leaves our College in an excellent place, despite benefit the students, but also the community.” expectations, articulate their vision of the future the tumultuous era of cuts that we’ve been Other partnerships Oliva established and to set new standards for engagement in the through over the last eight years. In particular, included outreach with the College of ever-changing worlds of art, music, theatre and his skillful development of the Hixson-Lied Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, film. While we wish him the very best in his new fund leaves the College with a financial legacy which included the Chiara String Quartet’s tour endeavor, he will have left a standard-setting that will support our programs and promote of Nebraska and taking School of Music groups, legacy and will be sorely missed by all.” excellence in perpetuity.” including the opera “Amahl and the Night Some of the projects made possible by the School of Music Director John W. Richmond Visitors,” to the Tassel Theatre in Holdrege, endowment include bringing the Chiara String said it was Oliva’s strategic planning that will be Neb., in partnership also with the UNL Alumni Quartet in residence to UNL; the Carson Film one of Oliva’s lasting legacies. Association. Series, which enables students in the Johnny “I think if there is a lasting legacy for Jack’s “The College of Agricultural Sciences Carson School of Theatre and Film to work tenure at UNL, it will be the legacy of strategic and Natural Resources has had the wonderful alongside professional filmmakers to create a planning. He likes to ‘plan the work and work opportunity to collaborate with Dean Oliva and short film every three years; the establishment the plan,’” Richmond said. “Our faithfulness the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing of the interdisciplinary Digital Arts Initiative; to our own strategic plans in the College and Arts in ways that we never imagined prior the creation of the Interdisciplinary Arts among the units within it has led to a real sense to Dean Oliva’s arrival at UNL,” said Steven Symposium; and the creation of the Hixson-Lied of momentum and a strong sense of credibility S. Waller, Dean of the College of Agricultural Visiting Artist Program in the Department of Art among our College’s many stakeholders. While I Sciences and Natural Resources. “It has been a and Art History. could list many ways in which Jack has benefited renaissance of collaboration among the sciences “What we’ve been able to do with the our College and University, none is more vivid and the arts and serves as a lasting tribute to endowment is create all sorts of opportunities to me that his example as a strategic leader.” Dean Oliva’s vision. for faculty and students to strengthen their Known for collaborations and outreach, “Jack and Dottie have a very personal work, to exhibit their work, to study here, to get Oliva established relationships with the Institute meaning for the term ‘pal,’ Waller said. “It recognized for the things they do. Plus we’ve of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) to describes a relationship that, among other been able to do a bunch of really interesting, establish summer internships in the arts at 4-H things, embraces mutual respect; enjoys an complex projects,” Oliva said. “The beauty of camps across the state. enduring friendship, trust and commitment; and the way the gift was given was that it built some “When I share with my colleagues across defines a lasting partnership. Thanks to Dean parameters for the purpose [half of the funds to the country, very few of them have thought Oliva, we can now say that our two Colleges are programs, one-fourth of the funds for students about a collaborative relationship with fine ‘pals.’” and one-fourth of the funds for faculty], but and performing arts, yet most of us have Oliva has a strong philosophy on the role of it didn’t define what those programs would some kind of 4-H camps and all of us have the arts in a land-grant university. be. That was a wonderful way to give a gift. a 4-H program,” said Elbert Dickey, Dean of “My own feeling about the role of the arts Because then it relied on us not only to invent Cooperative Extension in IANR. “It just wasn’t the ideas that we felt would enable us to get something anybody had thought about. And (Continued on page 5)

4 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Oliva departure (Continued from page 4) beyond just the preparation of artists and artist- that were happening in our programs, as well as teachers, but particularly the role of the arts in though happening for us as individual students. a land-grant school, is that one of the strongest He placed a lot of importance on interaction alliances you want to build right away, in my between different disciplines, and provided us view, are with those people on the campus who with opportunities to come together to share our are the closest to the people of the state,” Oliva experiences and support one another.” said. “And so it seemed like a very logical thing For Oliva, the hardest part about leaving that one of the first deans I reached out to was UNL is leaving the people. Elbert Dickey. And I said, look, there have to be “Ten years is a long time. We’ve felt more ways in which we can talk about the land grant a part of this community than any other mission in terms of how the fine and performing community we’ve lived in our married lives,” arts fit into that mission. And if we’re not Oliva said. “So we’ve built relationships doing it, let’s do it. And if we are doing it, that were very different. On the campus, I’ll let’s do it better and do more of it. He was miss everybody here, and this is one of the Dottie and Jack Oliva. Photo by Tom Slocum. extremely receptive to it, as was Dean Waller hardest things for me. So it will be people and and [Associate Dean of Cooperative Extension relationships, hands down, that I will miss the units.” Division] Beth Birnstihl.” most.” He is looking forward to returning to New Oliva also team-taught a junior-level UNL is a place that values the arts, Oliva York. honors seminar called Arts, Politics and Media said. “It will be easier than some moves. We with Charlyne Berens, Professor and Associate “This is a place that thinks the arts are won’t have to readjust and learn a brand new Dean of the College of Journalism and Mass important. We don’t have to beg. They value place,” Oliva said. “We’re also going to a place Communications. what we do,” he said. “People support what we where we have an instant network of people, “Jack Oliva is one of the most cooperative do in all sorts of ways. So in some ways, this some of whom we’ve known our whole lives, and collaborative people I know on a campus place has a high expectation for the arts, and I aside from family. They’re my oldest friends. So that encourages those traits among its think that’s a very good thing. I’m pleased that that part of the transition will be a little easier.” administrators and faculty,” Berens said. “I in the 10 years I’ve been here we’ve been able He also plans to continue playing the piano enjoyed working with Jack on a number of to meet or possibly exceed those expectations in New York City. projects that involved both our Colleges and in all sorts of ways and at the same time, invent “I have to reorient myself to practicing. One offered new and better opportunities for our some new things. And inventing who we are, of the other attractions to New York is the fact students. It was obvious that he loves students which when I came here was a major challenge that I have a whole network of musicians that and loves teaching, and we had a great time because the College was new. The campus I went to college with and have known most bouncing ideas around, learning from each other knows who this College is. People external to the of my life, most of whom are doing some sort and from our students.” campus know who this College is, what it does, of playing. So I will immediately try to connect Oliva, who helped revive the College’s the work of the students and the work of the with those as time will permit,” Oliva said. Undergraduate Student Advisory Board and faculty. They’ve come to expect and enjoy good “I’d like to continue to do my own individual created the Graduate Student Advisory Board, community connections. This community values playing, the Ragtime. It will be an interesting said he is proud of the connections made with what this College does very much.” thing on a campus in which there’s no music students during his tenure. Oliva previously served as director of the program. But already people have expressed an “I’m also proud in the way we’ve developed School of Music at the University of Florida, as interest in the Ragtime and other things that I do relationships between the dean’s office and the head of the department of music at Mississippi and even wondering what music I bring to F.I.T. students of the College. Certainly the constructs State University, as director of music for That will be kind of fun actually.” we have created have been the two advisory the Leonia, N.J., Public Schools, and as an He leaves behind a strong legacy at UNL. boards,” Oliva said. “It’s been a joy for me as instrumental and vocal music teacher in several “For me, the arts in a higher education the dean to know the students in the College, New Jersey school districts. institution have to be more than just about to know their work and actually participate in The Fashion Institute of Technology, in New preparing artists and future artist-teachers. It has projects with them. My sense here is that the York City at Seventh Avenue at 27th Street, was to be about finding ways in which to strengthen students really do enjoy this College, and they founded in 1944 and offers 43 majors and eight or establish connections between the arts and do feel that they have a role to play and they certificates. With 185 tenured full-time faculty all the other academic disciplines on campus, have a voice. I think that’s an accomplishment.” and 492 FTE faculty, its student population is however it is appropriate,” Oliva said. “We have Jamie Fritz, a graduate student in the about 10,413 students. to be sure that the College has a role in enriching Department of Art and Art History and a Oliva, in his new role as vice president the quality of life not only on the campus, but in member of Oliva’s Graduate Student Advisory of academic affairs, will be in charge of the the community. I’m pleased that we’ve been able Board, said Oliva provided encouragement to academic enterprise at the school, which has to do that in some ways, and we have some new students. schools of liberal arts, business and technology, ideas and connections.” “It was clear that the voice of the students art and design and a graduate school. Richmond, who first met Oliva on the was of vital importance to Dean Oliva. He “The college still has an arts focus about it. University of Florida campus in 1992, said he was always intent on making sure that our The learning curve for me will be less about the will miss having Oliva on campus. experiences in the Hixson-Lied College were job of a vice president because I think I’ve gotten “In the 19 years that we’ve known each exactly what we wanted them to be, and we a lot of experience in terms of the work I do,” other, I’ve found Jack to be a terrific colleague, were encouraged to freely express any issues Oliva said. “I think the learning curve will be a wonderful mentor and a lasting friend. I will or problems we had with our programs,” she more of an internal learning curve to understand miss working with him on a daily basis, to be said. “We were always treated with respect, and more about the programs, the people outside sure, but I have no doubt that the two of us will Dean Oliva was just as receptive of learning of those programs we serve. I think what continue to cross paths in the years ahead,” he from us as we were from him. He showed a they’re looking for me to do is to strengthen the said. genuine interest in the events and opportunities relationships between and among the academic

5 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 3 degrees (Continued from page 1) serving three years as a drum major. close relationship with Coach Petit and the of the institutions in the Big Ten are so similar. “After my sophomore year, I just tried out volleyball team,” Nielsen said. I think we fit into the Big Ten Conference very [to be drum major] for fun,” he said. “I really Following graduation, Nielsen was a band well.” didn’t intend to make it my first year, but I did. director in Kimball, Neb., for three years. He In the meantime, Nielsen has kept his ties It was a great opportunity for me to develop began exploring Master’s degree programs to the UNL Marching Band, helping with Bowl leadership skills, and I had a passion for the at the University of Northern Colorado and trips and serving as camp coordinator for their marching band. To be able to serve in that role Florida State, but then Norris Public Schools in summer high school marching camps and junior was really important to me.” Firth, Neb., recruited him to rebuild their band high band camps. He remembers his first football game at program in 1994. “I’ve had a close relationship with the band Memorial Stadium. “I decided while I’m teaching, I would work office, so I’ve been able to help them out when “I remember the first game, and that was on my Master’s at the University of Nebraska– they need my first Husker game at Memorial Stadium,” he Lincoln,” Nielsen said. extra said. “It was an evening game against Florida He stayed at Norris for seven years, before help,” State. I just remember marching out of the becoming the band director at Lincoln East in Nielsen northwest corner and remember seeing all of the 2001. He started to seriously consider getting his said. people. It was so exciting, and we beat them 34- Ph.D. and looked at programs at Northwestern He’s 17.” University and the University of Kansas, but attended Nielsen also remembers in the late 1980s, the then fate intervened again. the band would enter the stadium in the morning “I was serving on the board of NMEA Orange, for rehearsals through the southwest gate, which (Nebraska Music Educators Association),” Citrus, was protected with just a padlock. Nielsen said. “I was asked to run for president, Sugar, “They gave me a key to the padlock because and that was a six-year term. That kept my ties Cotton, I had to be there early to open it up so the to Nebraska.” Alamo, drumline could start their rehearsing,” he said. So he enrolled in the newly created Ph.D. in Fiesta, “So as an undergraduate student, I had a key to Music at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. In Rose and Nielsen Memorial Stadium.” 2009-10, he took a one-year leave of absence to Holiday Nielsen was also one of the first directors of complete a year of residency at UNL. Bowls with the band, as both a member and the women’s volleyball band. The late Barbara “I worked with student teachers, observed assistant. Hibner was the women’s athletic director at student teachers practicums and taught music “Lance has been an important figure in the that time and wanted to start having a band for education courses,” he said. “It was really leadership of the Cornhusker Band ever since women’s volleyball and basketball. Graduate exciting, especially after having all my years of his undergraduate days,” said Anthony Falcone, Teaching Assistant Beth Brader Kelly got the teaching experience to bring that back and share Associate Director of Bands and Director of band rolling in the 1988 season. Nielsen was still it with future music teachers.” the Cornhusker Marching Band. “He was a an undergraduate during the 1989-90 season. He will receive his degree this August. drum major for the band, and after graduating “There weren’t enough graduate teaching He has studied under Associate Director and remained involved in the program in many assistants Steinhart Professor of Music Education Glenn important ways. Lance has been, and continues to do it, Nierman and Associate Professor of Music to be, a great example and ambassador for UNL so the Education Brian Moore. Moore’s first year at Bands.” marching UNL was Nielsen’s freshman year in 1986, and Director of Bands Carolyn Barber described band he served as the chair of his doctoral committee. Lance as the ultimate “connector” for the band director “Dr. Moore and I have worked on projects program. asked me together throughout the years, and there’s no “He links the band alumni to the current if I’d be one better versed in music education research as students, prospective students to current interested Dr. Nierman,” Nielsen said. “When you have the students and alumni, parents to staff, staff to the in best here, why go somewhere else?” general public, UNL to the wider community heading Nierman remembers him even from his of music education, the UNL band program this up,” undergraduate days. to the UNL music education program, one Nielsen “It has been a pleasure to watch Lance generation of alumni to another,” she said. “He said. “So Nielsen grow as a professional music educator. is a musical/educational/professional synapse.” we started He was a member of my Introduction to Music One of his professional highlights was when with Education class as a first-year student, and I the Lincoln East Band was invited to participate this little had the pleasure of being the co-chair of his in the New Year’s Day parade in London in band. It’s doctoral committee recently,” Nierman said. 2009. evolved “His organizational skills and work ethic are “It was an honor to be a representative of over the second to none. This young man has already the state of Nebraska in this parade,” he said. years and made important contributions to the profession Today he continues to value his role in the is now the Nielsen as a drum major for the Corn- nationally; and, I predict, he will make many, lives of his music students. Big Red husker Marching Band in 1989. Photo many more.” “Music kids—band, choir, orchestra, no courtesy of the School of Music’s Band Express. Last year, Nielsen attended the first music matter what—they’re the best kids in the Office. Back then school Committee on Institutional Cooperation school,” Nielsen said. “It’s an opportunity for we were (CIC) meeting in Madison, Wis., as part of students in the course of the day to come in and just the volleyball band—small but mighty.” Nebraska’s preparation for entering the Big Ten express who they are and share their creativity That second season, 12 band members Conference. through music. The coolest part of my job is that traveled with the team to Hawaii for the Final “CIC will be a very positive aspect of this I get to be a part of the music making with the Four. new change,” Nielsen said. “There’s going to be students. When I am conducting a concert on “It was a fun trip, and we developed a very some wonderful collaborations, and so many stage, I am performing with the students.” 6 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Arts internship program gives students valuable experience A new arts internship program, created with restraints of her complicated student schedule,” funding from the Hixson-Lied Endowment, Hart said. “The Angels Theatre Company has is giving Hixson-Lied College of Fine and no formal office, so I think Mel learned a lot Performing Arts students valuable service- about non-traditional not for profits. Our theatre learning experience at local arts organizations. company puts women at the center of everything “The internships were built around not it does, which seemed to resonate with Mel, and having the students do or make art, but to be she got to know many of our theatre company involved in the community in some way that members.” supports and promotes art,” said Hixson-Lied Students applied for these internships Dean Emeritus Giacomo Oliva. “We have so and had a faculty sponsor. The minimum many good opportunities for them in town, requirements were the students had to major in in terms of galleries and museums, theatre the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing companies, the Lincoln Arts Council and the Arts with at least sophomore standing. They had Meadowlark.” to maintain a minimum grade point average of Six interns were hired in the spring to work Six students participated in the arts internship 3.0 in their major and a 2.5 cumulative grade at the following local arts organizations: program this spring. Back row, left to right: Caitlin point average. • Mel Severin, senior with dual majors Donohoe, Abby Lien and Mel Severin. Front row, Bartlett and representatives from the arts in studio art and advertising, Angels Theatre left to right: Toan Vuong, Jennifer Hord and Corinne organizations interviewed finalists. The arts Company Wardian. organizations then selected their interns. • Caitlin Donohoe, senior majoring in both “The challenge is finding the balance art history and criticism and sociology, Lincoln would be my dream job to work in that type of between serving the students and serving the Arts Council (Economic Impact Study Project) setting one of these days. I am mostly proud organization,” Bartlett said. “As a representative • Corinne Wardian, who graduated in May of the connections I built while working at the of the College, my primary focus is making sure with dual majors in art history and criticism LUX. I am proud of the fact that I get to say I the students are getting the experience they and international studies, Lincoln Arts Council have worked in a gallery in my lifetime, being want, and each of the organizations want that as (Public Art Survey Project) surrounded by art and other people who love art well. At the same time, they need to get the work • Abigail Lien, senior art major, LUX Center as well.” done.” for the Arts (Education) His supervisor at LUX Gallery Director During the semester, Bartlett organized • Toan Vuong, senior art major, LUX Center Stephanie Leach Vendetti said the internship a resume and cover letter workshop for the for the Arts (Gallery) program was valuable to both the students and interns and plans to add a professional protocol • Jennifer Hord, senior art major, the arts organizations. workshop in future years, where students Meadowlark Music Festival “As a non-profit organization we are very can learn more about how the professional reliant on the help of interns and volunteers environment, including how to create It happened that all six interns this spring to prepare for monthly exhibitions, prepare professional e-mails and voice mails. were art majors. Lindsay Carr Bartlett, arts for classes and accomplish preparations for Looking ahead, Bartlett plans to have four outreach coordinator for the Hixson-Lied College special events among other things,” she said. new interns in place to work August 2011 to May of Fine and Performing Arts, said they still “Within the gallery internship, students can gain 2012 at the organizations with the exception of benefitted from working at other organizations. knowledge of a broad range of information from the Meadowlark Music Festival, who will keep “A lot of the students didn’t understand how how to set up artwork in an exhibition, to artists’ their intern through June. cross cultural it is,” she said. “So even if your relations and how to assist customers in the In addition Donohoe will continue this fall at background is in something else, you can still purchase of artworks.” the Lincoln Arts Council to finish the economic cross pollinate with these organizations. There Donohoe, who is from Jacksonville, Fla., impact study project she began this spring. are lots of other skills that you need to run that worked at the Lincoln Arts Council, where she Vuong said the experience went beyond just type of organization.” was the project manager for an economic impact learning skills in his area. The students worked between eight-16 hours study for Americans for the Arts is doing in “I learned that people think I’m more per week this spring from January through May conjunction with the Lincoln Arts Council. She charismatic than I think. I learned to be versatile and were paid $8 an hour. learned a lot about the community in working on in terms of efficiency—I would be changing light “The idea is to help our students in the this project. bulbs 10 feet high one day, making a spreadsheet College find ways to participate in the arts “Not only has it been great working with the next, and then others, I would be selling through activities outside of what you might be such a wonderful staff, but the internship opened the product in the gift shop,” he said. “Most able to learn in the classroom, looking beyond me up to a lot of new things and shown me what importantly, I gained a deep appreciation for being a band director, looking beyond being an Lincoln has to offer the community,” she said. non-profit organizations that are crucial to the actor. It’s a way to look at how to engage with Severin, who is from Cortland, Neb., worked enrichment of the community. It would be my the community and to make a career out of the at the Angels Theatre Company, where she dream job to work in that type of setting one of arts,” Bartlett said. helped create marketing materials, conducted these days.” Vuong, who is from Omaha, Neb., worked as research, attended rehearsals and helped Oliva said the internships show students the a gallery intern at LUX Center for the Arts. organize organizational information to prepare bigger picture of what it means to be an artist. “I thought it was such a great way to for an administrative transition. “Education, while you’re in college, is more network and get the ball rolling on my career,” “I enjoyed every minute of it,” she said. “I than just a series of courses and passing of juries he said. “I feel like it’s hard to find opportunities learned about non-profit organizations and how and exams and all of that,” he said. “That’s these days in the arts, especially ones that pay difficult they can be to run and manage. It was a all important, but how do you connect all of well, so I felt really lucky that I had stumbled great way to apply my skills to a real-life job.” that with what your life is going to be like as a upon this internship that paid.” Angels Theatre Company Director Judith K. member of the community and as an artist in He said the experience was invaluable. Hart said having an organizational intern was that community? And if a student as a result of “Overall it was one of the best experiences “definitely a gift” for the theatre company. that comes out and then decides to volunteer I had all throughout my college career because “Mel had to work on her own a lot. She is their time or gets a job doing that, that’s a greater I felt like I was living up to my ambitions and naturally good at managing time, so I was able perk.” putting my interests to good use,” he said. “It to give her projects she could do within the time

7 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Faculty Notes John Bailey, Larson Professor of Flute, was Dominguez, Associate Professor of Art, had released in 2008. Marks’s lectured on Bingham’s a guest artist at the Hot Springs (Ark.) Flute their work in the group exhibition “New life and works at the church and delivered a Seminar in October, where he conducted the Hot Mexorado: Artists Living and Working in the further presentation on Bingham Feb. 21 at St. Springs Flute Choir in concert and presented Albuquerque-Denver Corridor,” which opened Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church as part of the a recital, lecture and masterclass. Bailey was March 5 in Taos, N.M. The show included 120 annual Presidents Day Conference of the New also the featured artist for the Rochester Flute works from 80 artists. They also presented an York City Chapter of the American Guild of Association’s annual Flute Day, where he gave a exhibition of their work at the Art Gallery of Organists. Marks recorded both CDs on the four- recital, masterclass and lecture, and conducted a New Mexico Highlands University in October manual, 110-rank Schoenstein organ at First- flute choir reading session. 2010. Plymouth Congregational Church in Lincoln. Carolyn Barber, Associate Professor The most recent CD was funded by grants from and Director of Bands, presented a clinic on William Grange, Professor of Theatre, had his the UNL Research Council and the Hixson-Lied auditioning, another focusing on artistry in ninth book, Historical Dictionary of German Endowment. ensemble rehearsals and a third devoted to Literature to 1945, published earlier in January Jeffrey McCray, Assistant Professor of educational unity and efficacy at the Nebraska by Scarecrow Press, an imprint of Rowman Bassoon, performed a guest artist recital at both Music Educators Conference in November. and Littlefield. The book covers a wide swath Michigan State University and Grand Valley In early December, she conducted the New of literary analysis State University in October. In addition, he York School Music Association All-State Wind and achievement, taught masterclasses for the bassoon students at Ensemble in Rochester, N.Y. In mid-January, she from Old High both universities, as well as at the University of conducted the Connecticut Music Educators German lays and Michigan. Association Northern Region Honor Band in ecclesiastical songs Brian Moore, Associate Professor of Music New Berlin, Ct., and at the end of the month of praise to Middle Education and Technology, had his class featured she served as director and conductor for UNL’s High German epics, on a local Lincoln TV station this spring for Winter Festival for Winds and Percussion. sagas and love lyrics. their work Dale Bazan, Assistant Professor of Practice, While extensive in in creating presented alongside the Moran Woodwind its chronological an “iPad Quintet (John Bailey, flute; William McMullen, dimension, the Orchestra” oboe; Diane Barger, clarinet; Alan Mattingly, Historical Dictionary that horn; and Jeffrey McCray, bassoon) at of German Literature performed the College Music Society Symposium in to 1945 is equally Pachabel’s Minneapolis in September, and with Associate comprehensive in Canon in D. Professor Carolyn Barber and Larson Professor the geographical and genre areas it covers. Each student of Flute John Bailey at Nebraska Music The history of this period in German literature in the class Educators Conference. Both presentations were is told through a detailed chronology, planned out Zach Bresler plays the guitar on on topics related to engaging high school music an introductory essay, a comprehensive the logic of his the iPad. musicians and their auditioning for college music bibliography and more than 200 cross- application, programs. Bazan also presented in November referenced dictionary entries on poetry, novels, wrote the code, created the graphics and music on teaching with popular music at the Ontario historical narrative, philosophical musings and recordings or samples and learned to play the Music Educators Association Conference in drama. instrument in two weeks. London, Canada. A poster describing research he Aaron Holz, Associate Professor of Art, Giacomo Oliva, Professor and Dean conducted with Dr. Frederick Burrack of Kansas had his work on exhibit at Sheldon Museum of Emeritus of the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and State University on the professional development Art March 22-May 15 in the Focus Gallery. The Performing Arts, performed as pianist for School needs of Kansas and Nebraska music educators exhibition of Holz’s figurative paintings was of Music voice faculty, students and alumni for was presented at the Biennial Music Educators entitled “Of Heads and Hands.” the seventh annual Celebration of American National Conference in Anaheim, Calif. Advances Karen Kunc, Cather Professor of Art, had Song, featuring the music of Frank Loesser, on in Music Education Research (Vol. 3) was printed her work in the exhibition “Abstraction & Jan. 31. Oliva also served as chair of the National in spring with a chapter detailing his research on Color: The Prints of Margo Humphrey and Association of Schools of Music accreditation the assessment and instructional design processes Karen Kunc” at the Blackburn 20|20 Gallery teams for the Department of Music at St. Cloud of high school band directors. in New York City Feb. 3-March 3. In March, University in St. Cloud, Minn., Mesa State Stan Brown, Associate Professor of Theatre, she received a $7,500 Arts and Humanities College in Grand Junction, Colo., and the School conducted a workshop entitled “No Fear Enhancement Fund grant from the UNL of Music at Georgia State University in Atlanta. Shakespeare” in March at the Streep Studio at Office of Research for her proposal entitled He also gave a Ragtime performance at the Vassar College in New York. “Acqua Alta—Serene Immersion and the ‘Light University of Nebraska Foundation fundraising Anthony Bushard, Assistant Professor of Envelope.’” event in Palm Springs, Calif., in February. Music History, wrote “Thad, Mel and the VJO; Damon Thomas Lee, Assistant Professor Clark Potter, Associate Professor of Viola, Music of the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra of Digital Arts and Composition, will have his conducted the Lincoln Youth Symphony in and the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra,” for the music included at the International Computer Budapest and Vienna, adjudicated the Naftzger Program Notes for the UNL Jazz Ensembles I & Music Association Conference in August at the Music Competition in Wichita, Ks., performed II in December. University of Huddersfield in England. the Telemann Viola Concerto with the Southwest Ann Chang, Artist in Residence (Piano) Christopher Marks, Associate Professor Washington Symphony and performed four and Artistic Director of the Lied Center for of Organ, recorded a second volume of organ pieces in a concert in the Chamber Music Performing Arts, performed at the “Schubertiade works by composer Seth Bingham. Produced Southwest Washington series in March and Festival” in Chicago on Jan. 29. This annual on the Raven label, the CD was released April. event celebrates the birth of the great composer Feb. 20 in New York City at a concert given Jamie Reimer, Assistant Professor of Voice, Franz Schubert by featuring noted scholars and by Marks at Madison Avenue Presbyterian published her article, “Revealing Robert Owens: performers of Schubert’s work during an all-day Church, where Bingham was organist from A study of compositional style and performance festival, sponsored by Piano Forte Foundation of 1913-1951. Organ Music of Seth Bingham, Vol. Chicago. 2: Memories of France is available from www. Ed Forde, Professor of Art, and Eddie ravencd.com, along with Vol. 1 of the series, (Continued on page 9) 8 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Faculty Notes In Memoriam (Continued from page 8) Howard F. Collins, 88, of Lincoln, died April of America and Lincoln Jewish Welfare practice in the song cycle Heart on the Wall, in the 19, 2011. He was an Foundation. Nov./Dec. 2010 volume of the Journal of Singing. art history professor at He served on the Board of Multiple Eric Richards, Assistant Professor of UNL for many years, Sclerosis Society, Aluminum Smelters Research Composition, premiered a three-movement as well as a fine artist Institute, Lincoln Elks Lodge #80, Lincoln concert work entitled “Fantasy for Trumpet and raconteur. He and Nebraska Jaycees, Lincoln Chamber and Jazz Orchestra” at the Midwest Band and always rode his bicycle of Commerce and the Malone Community Orchestra Clinic in Chicago in December. The to campus and often Center, among others. He helped organize composition was created after a request from the claimed that the only the nation’s first midget baseball league. Leo leader of the Rob Parton Big Band, a 19-piece way to fail his classes received distinguished service awards from jazz ensemble. The Midwest Band and Orchestra was to fill in your the University of Nebraska, Lincoln Kiwanis, Clinic is one of the largest music conferences exam paper upside- the State of Israel, Jewish Theological Seminary worldwide, drawing more than 15,000 delegates. down or forget your and the Lincoln Fire Department. He was “Local Wonders,” a play with music ran No. 2 pencil. He was named a distinguished alumni by Lincoln High at the Chicago Dramatists Dec. 2-Jan. 9. Based preceded in death by his wife, Adela Garcia School and received the City of Hope National on the writings of poet Ted Kooser,” Local Collins. Humanitarian Award. Wonders” was adapted by Associate Professor of Raymond H. Haggh, 90, of Fort Worth, Arnold Schatz, 80, of Lincoln, died April Theatre Virginia Smith and Paul Amandes with Texas, died March 13. Haggh was born on 24, 2011. He was an emeriti professor of violin. music by Paul Amandes. Sept. 4, 1920, in Chicago to Herbert and Helen He was born on July 24, 1930, in Cincinnati, Pamela Starr, Professor of Music History, Haggh. He was the eldest of three children. Ohio, to Joseph and Sophie (Soffman) Schatz. presented her paper “The Final Frontier: James Raymond served our country in the U.S. Army He began studying the violin at age five, and he Horner and Apollo 13” at the annual meeting of from 1942-1945. He was married to his wife, became the man of the house when his father the Forum on Music and Christian Scholarship Hilde, for 57 years passed away before his ninth birthday. By 15, at Wheaton College and to the annual conference and together they he had begun his career as a paid musician, and “Music and the Moving Image” at New York had two daughters. by the age University this spring. She has also been re- Haggh graduated from of 21 he had elected to the office of secretary of the American Indiana University received a Musicological Society. with his Ph.D. in Bachelors of The Chiara String Quartet (Rebecca Music in 1961 and had Music (cum Fischer and Julie Yoon, violins; Jonah Sirota, a successful career as laude) as well viola; and Gregory Beaver, cello) continued a university professor, as a Masters their year-long Creator/Curator Series. For this first at Memphis of Music, series, the Chiara commissioned four stellar State College, then, both from the young composers to write new work and to from 1960-89, at Cincinnati curate the concert on which the new work is to the University Conservatory be performed, choosing music that illustrates of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he served as of Music. their influences, inspiration and heritage. In Associate Dean of the College of Arts & Over January 2011, the Chiara performed around New Sciences (1973-77) and Director of the School of the subsequent years, he led the strings for the York, including at the Chamber Music America Music (1977-83). Fourth Army Radio Orchestra, played in the national conference, WYNC’s Soundcheck His achievements include a Nebraska Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the Peninsula and two performances at the first-ever Ecstatic Legislative Award and UNL Distinguished Festival and Santa Fe Opera Orchestra before Music Festival at Merkin Hall. The Chiara String Teaching Award (1985), a George Howard- settling in Lincoln in 1959, where he married Quartet has extended its residency at UNL for Louise Pound Award from UNL (1990), and Merwinna Kampman and started a family. He three more years. appointment as Steinhardt Distinguished was Professor of Violin and Chamber Music Professor of Music at UNL (1987). He published at the University of Nebraska from 1959 to IAS book ‘Fabulous Harlequin’ two major translations from German into 1994. He was concertmaster of the Lincoln English of Riemann’s “History of Music Symphony from 1960-1978 and associate wins AAM Design Award Theory,” and D.G. Turk’s “School of Clavier concertmaster of the Omaha Symphony The University of Nebraska Press and Sheldon Playing.” Haggh enjoyed traveling and for much of that time. He was founder, Museum of Art recently took top honors in attending performances of classical music. concertmaster and resident music director of the 2011 Museum Publications Haggh was preceded in death by his wife, the Nebraska Chamber Orchestra from 1975- Design Competition, sponsored Hilde. 1993. As a member of the Sheldon Trio, Schatz by the American Association of Leo Hill, 98, passed away on April 14, gave many concerts in Nebraska and made a Museums. 2011. Hill was a founder and Dean’s Club film entitled “Shadows on the Grass,” which Fabulous Harlequin: Orlan member of the Hixson-Lied College of Fine won a San Francisco Film Festival Award and and the Patchwork Self was edited and Performing Arts. Hill, former president was shown nationwide and in Europe. He by Sheldon Director Jorge Daniel of Northwestern Metal Company of Lincoln, toured with the World Symphony Orchestra, Veneciano and Professor of English was active in many civic organizations. He which played at the grand opening of Walt Rhonda K. Garelick, who has a special joint organized the advanced ROTC Fraternity Disney World in 1971. appointment in the Hixson-Lied College of Fine while attending the University of Nebraska A teacher and scholar as well, Schatz and Performing Arts and serves as founder and and served in the U.S. Air Force and Air Force received Woods Fellowship Awards for director of the Interdisciplinary Arts Symposium, Reserve, retiring with the rank of Colonel. research including viola transcriptions and and was designed by Andrea Shahan. The book He was president of the Lincoln Symphony, Baroque interpretation. He continued to teach won first prize in the category of institutions Lincoln Community Playhouse, Tifereth the violin until the day he passed away, and with budgets greater than $750,000. The book Israel Synagogue, Lincoln Center Kiwanis performed Madama Butterfly with Opera was published in conjunction with an exhibition Club, Cornhusker Council of the Boy Scouts Omaha in the preceding week. of ORLAN’s work at the Sheldon.

9 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Alumni Notes 1958 awarded one of six National Teaching Artist Matt Miller (B.FA. and B.A. Theatre) was Joanne E. Bauman (B.F.A. Art) had her work Grants from the John F. Kennedy Center for interviewed by Tri-C Presents in November in an exhibition and sale entitled “Fresh Paint” the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. The regarding his work as a lighting designer at the University of Arizona Museum of Art in grant will support his sabbatical leave during for Hubbard Street Dance Chicago before a February. Her work has also been shown in 2009 2011-2012, when he will participate in Dell’Arte performance in Cleveland, Ohio. He has been and 2010 at the Berkeley Arts Center’s Members International and its Physical Theatre certificate with Hubbard Street for more than a year. Showcase in Berkeley, Calif. She is an associate program in Blue Lake, Calif. member of the Tucson Museum of Art. 2009 Nicholas Phillips (B.M.) released a CD on Autumn Cipala (M.F.A. Jim Cantrell (B.F.A.Ed. art) had his work Albany Records Jan. 1. The CD is titled “Portals Art) had her work selected featured in the exhibition “The Divine in Art” and Passages” and features solo piano music for the National Council on this spring at the Bardstown Art Gallery in written by American composer Ethan Wickman. Education for the Ceramic Bardstown, Ky. His work was also included in He also recorded a CD of piano music by Arts’ (NCECA) 2011 the exhibition “Art for Small Spaces” in April Croatian composer Boris Papandopulo (1906- Biennial Exhibition held at Autumn Cipala, Cup at the gallery. Cantrell also won the first place 1991), which was released by Albany Records the Tampa Museum of Art and Saucer. award in watercolor for the third straight year at in the spring of 2011. Phillips is currently an Jan. 29-April 24. Forty-five the 12th annual “First Brush of Spring” Plein Air Assistant Professor of Piano at the University of artworks by 45 artists were Event in New Harmony, Ind. Wisconsin-Eau Claire. selected for the juried show from among 895 applicants 1976 Andy Strain (B.A. Music), played the trombone submitting more than 1,600 Howard “Rusty” Edwards (B.M.E.) has with singer-songwriter Joanne Newsom on works. Carla Potter (M.F.A. published hymns in books used by 37 Jimmy Kimmel Live on Aug. 11 on ABC. He was Art 2010) was also selected denominations in Australia, Canada, China, on a world tour with Newsom. for the NCECA Biennial Carla Potter, England, Japan, New Zealand, Polynesia, Exhibition. “The Dilemma of Scotland and the U.S. He is an Oxford 2002 Safety.” Foundaiton Fellow and has been a visiting fellow Tim Hammer (B.A. Theatre) co-starred in the Andy Converse (D.M.A.) is at Seminary of the Southwest (Austin, Texas) and Nov. 23 episode of “No Ordinary Family” on Lecturer of Trombone at Texas A&M University the Yale University Institute of Sacred Music. ABC. He also played Quincy in the final episode in Kingsville. He will teach trombone majors, as of E.R. on NBC in April 2009. well as perform. He has also won the position 1981 as Principal Trombone with the Mid-Texas Prilla Smith Brackett (M.F.A. Art), had an Timothy Howe (D.M.A.) accepted a trombone Symphony. exhibition “Places of the Heart” at The Hess position at the University of Missouri-Columbia. (Continued on page 11) Gallery at Pine Manor College in Chestnut He begins in August. Hill, Mass., Oct. 20-Dec. 1, 2010. Brackett creates paintings, drawings and prints that 2003 combine the forest landscape and human-made Bryant Scott (B.A. Music) won the trombone elements—most recently domestic furniture— position in the Synergy Brass Quintet. He has Send us into dreamlike, uncanny images that allow been active as a jazz and classical player in imagination and memory to wander and surface, Chicago since graduating from UNL. your news! making unexpected associations. 2007 1991 Jessie Graff (B.A. Theatre) continues to do stunt Send us notice of your latest activities and Lance Nielsen (B.S. Music Education; M.M. work for movies and television. She appeared achievements for publication in the F&PA 1998) presented at the research poster session at recently in episodes of Chuck on NBC and Newsletter. the International Symposium of Assessment in Hawaii Five-O on CBS. She has also worked as a Music Education in Bremen, Germany, in March. stunt double in Leverage on TNT. Name: The title of his research is “Music Educator’s Degree: Class Year: Utilization of Technology in Music Instruction Tori Lenosky (B.FA. Film) is a junior producer Address: and Assessment Practices.” Nielsen will receive at Parts and Labor, an active New York City City, State, Zip: his Ph.D. in Music this August. production company. Their most recent film, “Beginners” by writer/director Mike Mills, Phone: 1999 opened June 3. Their other recent films include E-mail: Ryan Johnston (B.A. Theatre) created a short Here, The Loneliest Planet, Cold Weather and Your news: video for the Theatre Communications Group Lovely, Still. entitled “Stage Matters” on why/how/if theatre matters in America. The film is now available for 2008 viewing online at http://tinyurl.com/2eq2tg4. Susan Dewsnap (M.F.A. Art) received Best of Show in the prestigious 2001 18th Annual Strictly Harold (Barnard II) Allen (B.A. Music; M.M. Functional Pottery National 2003) released a CD last fall entitled “Country for her piece, “Lidded Love.” For more information, visit http:// Jar.” More than 350 potters haroldallenmusic.com/home.html. submitted more than 1,000 works for the juried show Please clip and return this form to F&PA Craig Ellingson (B.F.A. Musical Theatre), Chair at Kevin Lehman’s Pottery Susan Dewsnap, Newsletter Editor, 102 Woods Art Building, and Director of the Minnesota State University in Lancaster, Pa., last Fall. Lidded Jar. Lincoln, NE 68588-0144 or e-mail your news to Moorhead Theatre Department, was recently [email protected].

10 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Alumni Notes College welcomes 5 new faculty this Fall (Continued from page 10) The Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing performance stage. Her recent roles include Arts welcomes the following new faculty this fall: Fiordiligi (Cosi fan tutte), Countess Almaviva (Le Kara Davidson (B.A. Theatre), completed a Margaret Bohls will be Assistant Professor of nozze di Figaro) and Erste Dame (Die Zauberflote), nine-month apprenticeship at the Actors Theatre Art in the Department of Art and Art History. She among others. of Louisville, Ky., and moved to New York City comes to UNL from Anoka Ramsey Community She received her D.M.A. and M.M. from in April. She was cast in the “The Revival” in College in Coon Rapids, Minn., where she taught the University of Nebraska–Lincoln with her September at Theatre Row and also a lead role ceramics courses. undergraduate work from Hastings College. in “Follow Me Down,” which opened at the Flea Bohls received her Master of Fine Arts in She is a member of the National Association of Theatre in Soho on Oct. 22. ceramics from Louisiana State University in Baton Teachers of Singing, College Music Society, the Rouge, La., and her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree National Opera Association and Sigma Alpha Teresa Dwyer (B.M.E.) is the Middle School in cereamics from the Rhode Island School of Iota. Band Director in Columbus, Neb. Design in Providence. Matthew Sontheimer will be Assistant She has exhibited her work extensively Professor of Art in the Department of Art and Paul Krueger (B.M.E.) performed with the throughout the U.S., including recent exhibitions Art History. Sontheimer was born in New University of Oregon ensembles at the Reno Jazz in Detroit, Mich., Santa Fe, N.M., and Kansas Orleans, La., and earned a B.F.A. Festival in April. The big band he plays in won City, Mo. Bohls is a member of the Minnesota degree from Stephen F. Austin the college division, the second big band (which Women Ceramic Artists, National Council on University, in Nacogdoches, he directs) placed third. In addition, his combo Education in the Ceramic Arts and the College Texas, and an M.F.A degree from was named the top combo at the festival, and he Art Association. Montana State University, in won the award as the top trumpet soloist at the Mark Cole will be Assistant Professor of Bozeman, Mt. Sontheimer has festival. Practice in Ceramics and Visual Literacy in the served as a Visiting Assistant Department of Art and Art History. Upon earning Professor and Adjunct teacher for Elizabeth Parker (Ph.D. Music Education) had his Bachelor of Fine The University of North Texas Sontheimer her article “Exploring student experiences of Arts degree in Ceramics and College of Visual Arts and belonging within an urban high school choral in 2000 from Northern Design for the past three years. ensemble: an action research study” published Michigan University, His works, which include both readable and in Music Education Research in December 2010. Cole participated in an invented texts, feature constructed dialogues of apprenticeship position posed questions and responses that take the form 2010 at John Glick’s Plum Tree Cole of both drawings and installations. Sontheimer Tyanne Bennett (B.A. Music) is working toward Pottery in Farmington has shown both nationally and internationally. a graduate degree in music therapy at the Hills, Mich. He then experienced a residency in His drawings and installations can be found in University of Kansas. the village of Dan Kwian, Nakhon Ratchisima, the permanent collections of The Museum of Fine Thailand, at Umdang Ceramics. Arts in Houston, The New Orleans Museum of Joshua Deutmeyer (M.M.) is the Middle School Cole has worked to bring ceramics to the Art and The Whitney Museum of Art. Band Director at Waukee, Iowa. lives of others as an AmeriCorps youth mentor Hans Sturm will be Assistant Professor at the McCarthy Alternative Education Center of Double Bass in the School of Music. Sturm Mai Mijoe Sahiouni (B.A. Theatre and B.J. in Crescent City, Calif., as well as working for has performed as soloist, chamber, orchestral, in advertising/public relations) was named four summers in ceramics at the Interlochen jazz and improvisational musician throughout one of the 50 Most Promising Minority Center for the Arts in Michigan. A functional Europe, Asia, South America, Africa and the Student finalists by The American Advertising potter and avid trout fisherman, he was fortunate United States. Federation. The AAF’s Most Promising Minority to be a Clay Business Intern at the Archie Bray He received his doctorate from Student Program is the premier advertising Foundation in Helena, Mt., for two years. He was Northwestern University and, prior industry award program to recognize and a post baccalaureate student at the University of to his appointment to the University recruit outstanding minority college graduates Nebraska–Lincoln in ceramics before beginning of Nebraska–Lincoln, was Professor in advertising, marketing, media and graduate school at Ohio University, where he of Double Bass and Jazz Studies communications. She is currently an intern received his M.F.A. in ceramics in 2010. and Coordinator of the String with The Beckwith Company and Dietrich Jamie Reimer will be Assistant Professor of Department at Ball State University. Sturm Nelson and Associates in Los Angeles. While Voice in the School of Music. Reimer has quickly Sturm has appeared with at UNL, she was an assistant to the general earned the reputation of a talented performer, a variety of artists across the manager of the Johnny Carson School of Theatre teacher and scholar in the vocal performance spectrum of jazz music. A frequent performer and Film during her first year in UCARE and community. Her research was published in recent of chamber music, Sturm has toured with also worked as a marketing associate for the articles in the Journal of Singing, the Journal of “Fireflight” (soprano, Japanese koto and bass Nebraska Repertory Theatre. She was featured the International Alliance for Women in Music and koto, double bass, and percussion) and “Trinkle in Advertising Age, USA TODAY and the Most Pan Pipes. She is also a Brass Works Trio” (trumpet, marimba and double Promising Minority Student book. frequent presenter of bass) for more than 20 years. As an orchestral her work throughout bassist, he has served as principal bassist of Matt Walley (B.A. Music) received a graduate the country and abroad. numerous regional orchestras including the teaching assistantship at the University of Recent national conference Muncie Symphony, Quad Cities Symphony, Georgia, where he studies with Joshua Bynum. presentations include Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra, Madison the National Opera Symphony, Dubuque Symphony, Dorian Opera, 2011 Association, National Reimer Rockford Symphony, and Racine Symphony and Kimberly Minor (M.A. Art History) has been Association of Teachers in toured Europe as a member of the American accepted into the Ph.D. program in art history at Singing and the Festival 500: The Phenomenon Sinfonietta Chamber Orchestra. the University of Oklahoma for this fall. of Singing. Presentations at international Sturm has contributed performances and conferences include the International Symposium compositions to more than 40 recordings. He has on Performance Science and the International recorded for Blue Note (EMI), Centaur, A440, Congress of Voice Teachers. Innova, Red Mark, Music and Arts, CRI, Big Reimer is also a constant presence on the Chicago, and Cadence labels, among others. 11 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011

Just imagine the possibilities if more were invested in student Volunteer Campaign Leadership scholarships and awards to support the next generation of artists, The Hixson-Lied College of Fine and performers, teachers and scholars in Nebraska, the nation and the Performing Arts extends its appreciation to world. these individuals who lead our campaign:

Imagine the possibilities if more were invested in academic programs Christina M. Hixson, Honorary Chair to nurture creative, artistic activity and scholarship. Rhonda and James C. Seacrest, Co-Chairs

Imagine the possibilities if more were invested in the outstanding Honorary Members faculty members who challenge and educate the fine and performing Dick Cavett Bruce & Carol Hendrickson arts practitioners of tomorrow. LaVon Crosby Dan & Barbara Howard Barbara J. Gilmore Herbert E. Howe These and other critical goals guide the Campaign for Nebraska: Unlimited Possibilities. This Dinsdale Mrs. Larry H. Lusk comprehensive fundraising initiative seeks to raise $1.2 billion by 2014 for priority areas of the Donald & Ann Farber Ann K. Rawley University of Nebraska, including $20 million to advance the Hixson–Lied College of Fine and Norman Geske Jane Rohman Performing Arts. Members With broad support from many alumni and friends, just imagine: What will this College look like James Baffico Tice L. Miller when the campaign concludes? Robert Fought Joseph M. Ruffo Larry Frederick James W. Strand College on the move fellowships, undergraduate scholarships, and Kathleen I. Friedman Carol Thompson Eighteen years since its founding, the Hixson- awards and recognitions will enable us to attract Ron and Chris Harris Diana H. Warner Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts outstanding students and to recognize, celebrate, Pamela Schaap Hemann Ernie Weyeneth flourishes in many and support the creative and scholarly work Jon Hinrichs ways. Enrollment that students undertake in the pursuit of their has more than degrees. the unlimited possibilities education provides doubled and remains Faculty Support—Support for endowed for the future of our alumni and their worthy strong in all degree faculty professorships, visiting artists and professions. Each gift provides meaningful programs, and the scholars, national and international faculty support for students while sustaining the scholarly and creative exchanges and collaborations, and awards and tradition of giving back to advance the future of work of our faculty, recognitions that distinguish and celebrate your College. students and alumni faculty performance and achievement. continues to gain Program Support—Support for a wide range Support Possibilities increasing national of innovative programs, projects and activities, • Endowed student scholarships and fellowships. and international and in particular, those that are interdisciplinary • Student grants for presentation of scholarly and recognition. Similarly, or that rely heavily on cutting-edge technology creative activity. we’ve been able to for their long-term sustainability and success. •Student travel grants for domestic and launch a wide range international study. of new projects and Possibilities to be involved • Faculty professorships and awards to recognize initiatives that provide exciting opportunities for The possibilities for you to connect with the and encourage high achievement. our students and faculty and move the college college are unlimited. Momentum has been • Faculty travel grants for research, creative into the national spotlight. building since the inception of the Campaign activity and engagement. So much of what we accomplished would for Nebraska in 2005, but there is much yet to • Grants to sponsor visiting artists and not have been possible were it not for the alumni accomplish. Gifts at all levels help improve performers. and friends who made generous contributions Nebraska’s education of art, music, dance, of various types over the years in support theatre, film and so much more. of scholarships, facilities, workshops and The faculty, staff and students are grateful residencies, special activities and events, and for your support to help advance our college. academic programs. No gift is too small. Whether it’s a contribution During the remaining three years of the of $5 or $50, it makes a tremendous difference to Campaign for Nebraska, it is our hope you will future generations and moves the college closer Lucy Buntain Comine join us as we seek to reach our own unlimited to obtaining 100 percent alumni participation to Director of Special Projects possibilities for excellence. this campaign. University of Nebraska Permanently endowed funds and naming Foundation opportunities begin at $25,000, and gift Campaign for Nebraska priorities To contribute or for more information More than $17 million has been given toward commitments may be pledged and paid over about Campaign for Nebraska priorities, the college’s goal of raising $20 million by 2014 time. Bequests and other planned gifts are also contact Lucy Buntain Comine at lbuntain@ for targeted priorities—priorities that seek to a viable way for many people to fulfill their nufoundation.org or call (800) 432-3216. To build on its strengths and achieve its mission. charitable giving interests without affecting day- contribute anytime, go to nufoundation.org. Areas identified by the college and its volunteer to-day living. All gifts to any area of the College qualify now campaign leadership include: Your contributions show a high regard as a campaign contribution. Student Support—Support for graduate for the mission of the College and a belief in 12 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Sweepstakes winner enjoys weekend back on campus Marcia (Goeller) Schmidt (B.M.E. 1977) won the and attended the Nebraska- Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Kansas football game. Arts’ first-ever Arts/Athletics Weekend “The weekend Sweepstakes last fall. The sweepstakes was held was nothing short of in conjunction with the College’s annual Circle overwhelmingly splendid,” solicitation through the University of Nebraska Schmidt said. Foundation. Schmidt said it Alumni and friends were asked to join the was good to be back in Encore Circle (School of Music), @rt Patron’s Westbrook, where she Circle (Department of Art and Art History) or studied saxophone, piano The Carson Circle (Johnny Carson School of and voice and participated Theatre and Film). Gifts to these circles help in the Cornhusker Marching Band, winning the Band Key Award for Outstanding Service in 1977. “Westbrook still has the same four walls, terrazzo floors and an unmistakable aroma, as our Student Ambassador [who led The next Arts-Athletics weekend sweepstakes the tour] reminded me,” Left to right: Chancellor Harvey Perlman, Marcia Schmidt, Brian Davis and prize includes tickets to the Nebraska-Ohio State Schmidt said. “It was Dean Giacomo Oliva at the Chancellor’s pre-game party. Football game Oct. 8. The mailing went out in June a similar experience to to all alumni. If you have questions or did not returning to my Grandma’s receive the sweepstakes letter, please e-mail Lucy house, where there is always a linger of invitation to have a Coke at Henry’s (where the Buntain Comine at [email protected]. familiarity, regardless how long it has been since Lied is now),” she said. the last visit. It was good to be back.” She also enjoyed the performance ensemble and enable many opportunities for faculty and Schmidt learned about the College’s Digital work with her saxophone. students in the College. Returning the pledge Arts initiative and saw the music composition “I rediscovered this love by being a part card, with or without a donation, entered people lab in Westbrook. She also visited with Associate of several ensembles in the Topeka area while in the sweepstakes for an exciting weekend Professor Rhonda Fuelberth, Associate Professor I lived there,” Schmidt said. “It is currently my package Nov. 12-13. and Director of Bands Carolyn Barber and favorite hobby and avocation. The little jazz Hixson-Lied Endowed Dean Giacomo Oliva Assistant Professor of Voice Jamie Reimer. ensemble I play with at Northeast Community drew the winning name out of more than 150 “Having a chance to speak briefly with College, NAJE, is fulfilling my somewhat selfish entries. some faculty members and hear their input on ambition to return as an ensemble performer to “The idea was suggested by our Director of teaching music in this century was insightful,” the stage.” Development Lucy Buntain Comine, as a way of Schmidt said. “Reminiscing and comparing ‘then Schmidt, who lives in Fremont, Neb., is a connecting with our alumni and other supporters to now’ made me realize full well that the world master dealer for Sand Creek Post and Beam in of the College, and as it turned out, we were of music is getting smaller as we achieve such Wayne, Neb. She serves clients in the South, from able to bring one of our alumni back to campus advancements as real-time instruction across the Louisiana to Florida, and along the East Coast up to experience both an arts event and a football globe.” to Maine. game,” Oliva said. “Doing so also afforded us Schmidt and Davis enjoyed seeing the opera, She enjoyed her exciting weekend on a chance to have a personal conversation with “The Light at the Piazza.” campus. her about the College and its faculty, students “It is so refreshing to see this generation of “Being on campus refreshed my excitement and programs. It was truly a delight to meet students advancing as mature performers at my for the many offerings the College of Fine and Marcia and Brian Davis, her guest, and to see alma mater,” Schmidt said. Performing Arts has available for our Husker how pleased they both were to be on campus and Schmidt said her fondest memories of her student body,” Schmidt said. “I hope they realize to learn about how the College has grown and time in the School of Music were the lifelong how fortunate we are at UNL to have such an matured since she was a student in the School connections to her peers and mentors. outstanding College with such progressive, of Music back in the 1970s. They really enjoyed “The hours of preparation and dedication cutting-edge leadership.” themselves immensely.” that it took to lead up to the level of performance One thing Schmidt does not want to do, Schmidt and Davis toured Westbrook Music that was assumed would be there at each however, is encourage her fellow alumni to enter Building; had dinner with Oliva and School of opportunity, be it the Cornhusker Marching future College sweepstakes like this. Music Director John Richmond; attended the Band, the Wind Ensemble or the many juries and “They’ll ruin my chances of repeating if School of Music Opera “The Light at the Piazza;” recitals are also high on the list of ‘memories’— more people enter,” she said. attended the Chancellor’s Pre-Game Reception; while taking practice room breaks upon Perlman accepts APC recommendation to spare organ program in this year’s cuts On May 24, Chancellor Harvey Perlman agreed in our UNL School of Music,” said School of submitted to the APC in April to address a to accept the Academic Planning Committee’s Music Director John W. Richmond. “Music is shortfall in the fiscal year 2012 budget. (APC) recommendation not to eliminate the a highly interconnected discipline. The loss of Instead of cutting the organ study program, study of organ in the School of Music and the this program and professor would have had the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing termination of a pre-tenured faculty member. an impact not only on keyboard studies here, Arts agreed to offer a different budget reduction “We are delighted to learn that Chancellor but also on the choral program, the orchestral during the university’s next round of cuts, Perlman has accepted the recommendations program and the chamber music program.” Perlman said. of the APC to retain the organ program and The original proposed cut was part of $5 the award-winning professor who serves it million in budget reductions that the Chancellor 13 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 School of Music presents ‘Amahl’ opera in Holdrege by Courtney Pitts Contributed reporting from Seanica Reineke

On Dec. 12, music students from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln traveled to Holdrege, Neb., to share the holiday message of giving through the performance of opera. For the first time ever, the UNL Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts and the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources collaborated to take a UNL production of “Amahl and the Night Visitors” on the road. “It’s wonderful if you can take your music to audiences who couldn’t really come to see you,” said Jack Oliva, dean emeritus of the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts, during the pre-event talk. “UNL is committed to outreach.” The Christmas classic “Amahl and the Night Visitors” revolves around the story of a poor shepherd boy named Amahl. One night, three kings in search of a child visit Amahl and his mother. The tale ends with a miracle and a message about the true spirit of giving. For the past eight years, the university has performed this opera with the help of Lincoln high school students. It’s become a UNL tradition for the students to perform for Title I fifth-grade classes. Left to right: College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Dean Steve Waller, School of Music Director The deans of the two colleges hoped to John Richmond, Carol and Bruce Hendrickson and Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts Dean fulfill UNL’s mission as a land grant university Emeritus Giacomo Oliva at the pre-performance reception at the Tassel Theatre in Holdrege, Neb. by making the performance accessible to people across the state. able to pick up the staging, music and dance performance.” “We wanted to bring the university to the steps so quickly,” Hibbard said. “They were very The pre-event focused on the collaborative people, which is what we’ve done with our hardworking and had lovely attitudes; wanting effort between the two colleges and an collaboration,” said Steve Waller, the dean of the to do their best and eager to get things right for explanation given by John Richmond, director of agriculture college. the performance.” the UNL School of Music, of what the audience During the Dec. 12 performance UNL music Six Lincoln high school students also came could expect when watching the opera. An students played the primary roles, while the along to help teach the choreography. admissions officer was also present to answer Shepherd’s Chorus was made up of Holdrege Brittany Gondringer, a junior at Lincoln East questions about all the university has to offer. high school students. High School was among the six. During the pre-event, a special thanks was For weeks before the show, UNL students “The Holdrege kids really held the given to UNL alumni Bruce C. and Carol S. learned their parts and held rehearsals. However, performance together,” Gondringer said. “Us Hendrickson of Holdrege who helped fund the the Holdrege students learned their part in just a veterans came just to help the others out.” first-time opera performance. few hours. The morning of the performance, the Costuming was another task that was “The Holdrege community has appreciated university students arrived at the Tassel Theatre completed just hours before the show. the arts for decades,” Bruce Hendrickson said. bright and early to begin practicing with the high “The unsung hero of the day was Mary “We worked to raise money to build the Tassel. schoolers. Director Bill Shomos, Music Director Beth Shomos who managed to somehow find We (Bruce and Carol) wanted to sponsor good Zachary Vreeman and Choreographer Therees enough costumes and clothe every one of those arts programs to come to Holdrege and have Hibbard shepherds in a beautiful way, so when they been very interested in all the university has worked stepped on the stage they looked like a tableau in done and is doing. Carol and I are just happy to to teach a painting—another little UNL miracle,” Hibbard see people enjoy the programs we bring.” the said. A reception after the opera allowed the dozens of The hour-long opera was enjoyed by a large audience to meet the cast members and learn Holdrege and eager audience, many of whom arrived early more about the university. Several members of students and stayed late for pre- and post-events. The the Shepherd’s Chorus enjoyed cake with their the songs UNL Alumni Association hosted the events. family and friends, including Dustin Kimberely, and The non-profit organization boasts 60 a junior at Holdrege High School, and his dad, dances. chapters and 25,000 members, said Shelley Dale Kimberely. “These Zaborowski, senior associate executive director “The show was awesome,” Dale Kimberely young of the alumni association. The group worked said. “It was a way to see the arts. We don’t get singers to spread the word about the performance of to see a lot of shows like this in Holdrege. We’d have “Amahl and the Night Visitors” throughout love to have more opportunities like this.” obviously Holdrege. had good “There are many UNL alumni living Courtney Pitts is a senior in the College of training throughout the state of Nebraska,” Zaborowski Journalism and Mass Communications from Norfolk, at their said. “With the School of Music students Neb. Seanica Reineke is a senior in the College own performing at the Tassel Theatre, we wanted of Journalism and Mass Communications from A post-performance reception was held schools to be sure alumni in the local area knew Edgerton, Mo. in the lobby of the Tassel Theatre. to be about it and were encouraged to come to the 14 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Forde steps down as Art and Art History Chairman Edward Forde has stepped down as chairman of undergraduate and graduate students, made University of California, Santa Barbara. the Department of Art and Art History effective strong faculty hires, expanded course offerings He began teaching art at California State July 1. He returned to the faculty and will for non-majors and developed the Hixson-Lied University, Los Angeles, in 1971 and has taught continue to curate exhibitions at visiting artist program,” said Christin J. Mamiya, there from 1971 to 1985 and 1988-1994. He served the Eisentrager-Howard Gallery in Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing as Chairman of the Art Department from 1981-86 Richards Hall. Arts Interim Dean and Hixson-Lied Professor of and again from 2002-2004. Pete Pinnell, Hixson-Lied Art History. “We thank Ed for his seven years of He served as Chairman of the Art Professor of Art, will serve as service to the Department of Art and Art History Department at Illinois State University from interim chairman for a two-year and look forward to his continued participation 1986-1988 and was a visiting professor of art at period. on the faculty.” the University of Texas at San Antonio in 1993. Forde “During Ed’s tenure, the Forde came to UNL in 2004 from California His artwork has been represented in more Department of Art and Art History State University. He received both his M.F.A. in than 100 exhibitions at galleries and museums introduced service-learning opportunities for Art and his B.A. in English Literature from the throughout the world. Reminiscence: Music alum remembers post-War opera This article was recently submitted to a University was to sing in either one or two. There were two a fine teacher. Again, there were two casts, three of Nebraska Alumni Association writing contest, in the casts and three performances. Both soprano leads performances, and I was lucky enough to sing in nostalgia category, and is published here with permission. It were members of the same social sorority, so all two of them. tells of the author’s experience when opera returned to the the coeds, and their housemother, had to attend Two mezzo-sopranos sang the role of School of Music after World War II. two performances, in order not to alienate one of Carmen, and yes, she dies at the end. The their sisters. two tenors who sang the role of Don Jose had by Annette J. Markell The costumes were rented, and we, who excellent voices. One of them was a good actor were peasants, had somewhat the same attire. and reacted well to what was going on onstage. At last! Grand opera was returning to the music The ladies, as I remember, wore colored skirts The other one stood there like a stick. Micaela department. It had been absent during World with a horizontal stripe. As I recall, mine was and Don Jose sing a charming duet, but this War II, and now that the war was over, was to blue. This was topped with a white puffed-sleeve tenor sang with no emotion and no movement. I make a glorious entrance, accompanied by full blouse and a black bodice. can still hear Dallas Williams, our stage director, orchestra. This production was very successful, and shouting to him, “Put your arm around her!” What opera would it be? For a first attempt, the next year promised to be even better. This I remember the tall, talented bass who sang it had to be a short one. No Wagner, or dark time the opera was “I Pagliacci” (The Players) by the role of Zuniga. He would invariably drink Russian offering, the choice had to be lyrical and Leoncavallo, mentioned above. This opera begins a large amount of cola before going on stage. In something the audience would relate to. And, with the famous “Prologue,” sung by Tonio, those days, colas were more carbonated than we doubted that it would be really heavy. So that which foretells the coming events—more love, they are now, and we wondered how he could would leave Italian opera. lust and betrayal. sing so marvelously with no after-effects. Arthur Westbrook was the Dean of the Fine The main characters are Canio, his wife The girls in the cigarette factory, including Arts Department, and he had chosen “Cavalleria Nedda and Silvio, who stirs things up. It takes Carmen and her two sisters, wore stunning Rusticana” by Mascagni. A short opera, indeed, place near Montalto, in Calabria. The music is costumes in many vivid colors. And I, as the this composition, when performed at the Met, is both emotional and delightful. There is a play little girl from the hills wore—you guessed paired with “I Pagliacci” by Leoncavallo and is within a play, and the performance ends not only it!—a colored skirt with a horizontal stripe. As I called the Double Bill. But for the department’s with the heroine dead, but Silvio as well. And recall, mine was blue, with a white puffed-sleeve first endeavor in some years, one opera at a time the opera concludes with the famous words— blouse and a black bodice. This comes under the was enough. And, we would sing the opera in ”The comedy is ended.” heading: “You can’t win!” English, much to everyone’s relief. The soprano lead in this production was a “Carmen” was well received, but at the end I remember Danny Kaye’s take on opera. piano major. She was chosen because she had of the spring semester, we were told that the He said, “In Russian opera, everybody dies. represented the department so well in the past. opera for the following year, Gounod’s “Faust,” In Italian opera, everybody dies. But they die She sang beautifully. was not going to be performed, for whatever happy!” As in the first production, I played a peasant. reason I did not know. Be that as it may, let me translate. “Cavalleria My costume was a colored skirt with a horizontal I graduated and went to New York and did Rusticana,” means “rustic chivalry,” and is set in stripe. As I recall, mine was blue. This was not follow the fate of opera at the university. Sicily, the land of hot-blooded young people. The topped with a white puffed-sleeve blouse and a While it was there, I thoroughly enjoyed it! two main characters are Santuzza and Turiddu, black bodice. Sound familiar? However, the leads names you won’t find in any what-shall-we- in both these operas wore authentic outfits and Annette Jacobs Markell graduated from the University of name-the-baby book. This plot with its themes really looked great. Nebraska in 1948 with a Bachelor of Music in Education of love, lust and betrayal is set against a bucolic This plot, with its memorable clowns degree and also received an Associate in Applied Art with background with beautiful music, including the and strong characters, also received favorable the emphasis on radio in 1947. Her sorority, Sigma Delta melodic “Intermezzo,” a favorite with opera- reviews. It was gratifying to bring opera to an Tau, won a Coed Follies prize, one of two which Markell goers worldwide. In most operas, the heroine audience, which, in many cases, had never seen created. After graduation, she moved to New York, and dies. In this one, she faints, but with just cause— one. within a year was on her way to the U.S. Zone in Germany Turiddu fights—and loses—big time. In my senior year, Mr. Westbrook had to become an entertainment specialist under the auspices The University Singers was the core group chosen “Carmen” by Bizet. Set in Seville, of Army Special Services. Markell now lives in California from which the soloists would be chosen. As a Spain, this popular opera includes the stirring and is retired, having worked for the Los Angeles Teachers voice major, I was eager to learn who was going “Toreador Song,” seductive “Habanera” and Union for 14 years. During her many years in California, to sing the lead roles. Usually, seniors sang the more memorable music. Here was love, lust and she did extensive writing, including many years as publicity leads, and this was the case with one exception. betrayal at its most intense. liaison with the Burbank Civic Light Opera, with which There was a sophomore, as was I, with As a soprano, I was selected to be Micaela, she sang, and now handles publicity for the San Fernando beautiful voice production who was chosen to the sweetheart from the country. My teacher was Valley Master Chorale, where she continues to participate. sing in one or two of the performances. A senior David Foltz, and we got along famously. He was 15 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Achievements celebrated during Honors Day Weekend The University of Nebraska–Lincoln Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts celebrated its annual Honors Day weekend April 15-16. Three distinguished alumni were in classes on Friday, April 15. They were recipients of the Fine and Performing Arts Alumni Board’s Alumni Achievement Awards. Wendy Jane Bantam (M.F.A. 2007), Alumni Achievement Award in Art, is a teacher and lecturer on creative and critical thinking with training in performance art and the visual arts. She has conducted teaching residencies in Indonesia, England and across the United States through the Nebraska Arts Council and The Dana Foundation/Kennedy Center. Her paintings are exhibited nationally and internationally. Dr. Dennis Keith Cox (B.M.E. 1965), Alumni Achievement Award in Music, is Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities and Graduate Coordinator at the University of Maine. He has served as a guest clinician in 26 states, from Alaska to Maine, as well as Canada and Europe. He has devoted himself tirelessly to the art of choral music. David Duffy (B.F.A. 1988), Alumni Back row, left to right: Dennis Keith Cox, Wendy Jane Bantam and Dick Hay. Front row, left to right: David Achievement Award in Theatre, is the Creative Duffy and Dean Emeritus Giacomo Oliva. Photo by Tom Slocum. Director for Disney Cruise Line Entertainment. While at UNL, he was accepted into the Walt of Fine and Performing Arts Dean’s Club and Undergraduate Student Leadership Award; and Disney World College Program and began has continued to give to the college and its many Cristina Skinner, who received the Graduate working at the Magic Kingdom at DisneyWorld programs throughout the years. Student Leadership Award. in the summer of 1987. Other award winners included Gail For a full listing of this year’s honorees, visit Dick Hay received the Award of Merit. Hay Kendall, who received the Faculty Service http://go.unl.edu/honors. is a charter member of the Hixson-Lied College Award; and Kaitlyn Williams, who received the Three retire from Department of Art and Art History in 2011 This year three faculty and staff members retired more than 150 group exhibitions, including after long and distinguished careers at the the Sheldon Museum of Art, the John Michael University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Kohler Art Center in Wisconsin, the Clay Studio Shelley Fuller is Associate Professor of in Philadelphia and the Fusions Gallery in Art in the Department of Art and Art History. Australia. Her ceramic work is included as part Fuller has been at UNL since 1990, where she has of the collection at the Minneapolis Institute of taught photography and served as Chief Adviser Art and the General Mills Corporation in New for the Department of Art and Art History. In York City. 1997, Fuller received the College of Fine and Kendall has presented more than 80 Performing Arts’ Distinguished Teaching Award. workshops and lectures nationally and She received her Master of Fine Arts from internationally. She was selected to present a UNL in 1989 and her Bachelor of Arts from Nebraska Lecture on her work as part of the Augustana College in South Dakota in 1981. 2006 Chancellor’s Distinguished Lecture Series. Her work has been shown throughout Her research interests include Mediterranean the U.S., including a recent solo exhibition at Basin earthenware ceramics, Christian and LaVonne Keller (left) and Gail Kendall (right) with Syracuse University in 2009 and a juried show at Islamic illuminated manuscripts and English Dean Emeritus Giacomo Oliva at the Honors Day The Light Factory in Charlotte, N.C., in 2010. pottery and porcelain. She has been a resident Dinner. Photo by Tom Slocum. LaVonne Keller retired in May as Staff artist at Spode Fine China Works in Stoke-On- Secretary II for the Department of Art and Art Trent, England; the Archie Bray Foundation in She was named a Hixson-Lied Professor of History. She has been at UNL since 1987. She Helena, Mont.; and Watershed Center for the Art in 2006. Kendall received her Bachelor of began at the Hardin Center and joined the Ceramic Arts in Newcastle, Maine. Science in Design degree from the University Department of Art and Art History nearly nine In 2003 Kendall was a participant in the of Michigan and her Master of Fine Arts degree years ago. Attingham Trust Summer School for the Study from Eastern Michigan University. She spent 10 She answered the phone and greeted visitors of Historic Houses in England. Her work has years working as an independent studio artist in with a friendly face and voice. been the subject of articles in periodicals and St. Paul, Minn., before accepting a position in the Gail Kendall is Hixson-Lied Professor of Art books, including Ceramics: Art and Perception UNL Department of Art and Art History in 1987. from the Department of Art and Art History. She (Australia), Neue Keramik (Germany), and The In 2009, she received the National Council has been at UNL since 1987. Ceramic Surface by Matthias Ostermann. Most on Education for the Ceramic Arts’ Excellence Kendall is a ceramic artist and dedicated recently, her pottery is featured in Emmanuel in Teaching Award, putting her in the elite teacher, who has shown her work in more Cooper’s new book International Ceramics, company of the finest educators in the country. than 22 solo and two-person exhibitions and published by A & C Black, London, 2008. 16 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Hixson-Lied Faculty, Staff Awards presented Barger named Hixson-Lied Professor The Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts has announced that Diane Barger has been named Hixson-Lied Professor of Clarinet beginning this fall. “Diane is an exceptional faculty member who has distinguished herself nationally and internationally as a performer and as a leader in the profession,” said Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts Dean Emeritus Giacomo Oliva. “She has also made lasting and noteworthy contributions to her department, the College and UNL since her Barger appointment to the faculty in 1994. We are delighted that the Hixson-Lied Professorship Committee has recommended her for this special distinction.” The Hixson-Lied Professorship program recognizes the work of the most outstanding faculty in the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts. Supported by a grant from the Hixson-Lied Endowment, the Back row, left to right: Janice Stauffer, Dana Fritz, Sandy Veneziano, Alan Mattingly and Dean Emeritus professorships are limited to tenured faculty Giacomo Oliva. Front row, left to right: Rhonda Fuelberth, Kathe Andersen, Aaron Holz and Mark at the rank of associate or full professor, who Nealeigh. Not pictured: John Bailey and Christy Aggens. Photo by Tom Slocum. have demonstrated exceptional or overall performance over an extended time frame and Funding support from the Hixson-Lied and Performing Arts for at least 10 years, who whose accomplishments have gained significant Endowment was created to establish an has demonstrated exemplary accomplishment in recognition beyond the University. ongoing awards program for faculty and staff, research or creative activity. This year’s recipient Barger is the eighth Hixson-Lied Professor to recognize outstanding performance and is John Bailey, Larson Professor of Flute in the named in the College. She is professor of clarinet accomplishments in the areas of teaching, School of Music. in the School of Music, a member of the Moran research and creative activity, faculty service, The Junior Faculty Achievement Award Woodwind Quintet and chair of the Wind area. outreach and engagement, and staff service to in Research and Creative Activity is given to She currently serves as principal clarinet with the College and University. a faculty member who has held an ongoing Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra and is Nebraska The College Distinguished Teaching appointment in the Hixson-Lied College of Fine State Chair (2010-present) and Past Treasurer Award is given to a faculty member who has and Performing Arts for nine years or less, who (2000-2010) of the International Clarinet demonstrated exemplary accomplishment in has demonstrated exemplary accomplishment in Association. teaching over the previous two years. This year’s research or creative activity. This year’s recipient recipient was Associate Professor of Horn Alan is Aaron Holz, Associate Professor of Studio Art Ceramics student wins 1st Mattingly, from the School of Music. in the Department of Art and Art History. Lauren Mabry, a Master of Fine Arts in ceramics The Leadership Award in Curriculum or The Faculty Award for Outstanding student in the Department of Art and Art History Programmatic Development is given to a faculty Outreach, Engagement or Service is given and Hixson-Lied Fellow, member who has demonstrated exemplary to a faculty member who has demonstrated won first prize for her accomplishment in curriculum or programmatic exemplary accomplishment in outreach, piece, “Cylinder,” in “The development. This year’s recipient is Dana engagement or service. This year’s recipient is Eighth Annual Marge Fritz, Associate Professor of Studio Art in the Janice Stauffer, Associate Professor of Costume Brown Kalodner Gradu- Department of Art and Art History. Design in the Johnny Carson School of Theatre ate Student Exhibition” at The Achievement Award in Academic and Film. The Clay Studio in Phila- Advising is given to a faculty member who The Staff Award for Outstanding Service is delphia, Pa., in June. has demonstrated exemplary accomplishment given to a staff member who has demonstrated “Lauren is talented Lauren Mabry, “Cylin- der,” 2011. in academic advising. This year’s recipient is exemplary service to the College or Academic and worked very hard Rhonda Fuelberth, Associate Professor and Unit. Three staff awards are presented. as a student,” said Peter Co-Chair of the Music Education division and The first recipient is Christy Aggens, from Pinnell, Hixson-Lied Professor of Ceramics and graduate music education coordinator in the the Department of Art and Art History. Aggens Interim Chair of the Department of Art and Art School of Music. is the multimedia designer and student services History. “It’s nice to see her begin to get national The Junior Faculty Achievement Award in coordinator for the Department of Art and Art recognition for her work.” Teaching is given to a junior faculty member who History. The Marge Brown Kalodner Graduate has demonstrated exemplary accomplishment The second recipient is Kathe Andersen, Student Exhibition highlights the best work of in teaching. This year’s recipient is Assistant from the Dean’s Office. Andersen is the students or recent graduates from the best gradu- Professor Sandy Veneziano from the Johnny Publications Coordinator for the College and is ate programs in ceramics from across the United Carson School of Theatre and Film. in charge of external relations. States. The Senior Faculty Achievement Award The third recipient is Mark Nealeigh from Mabry received her B.F.A. in ceramics from in Research and Creative Activity is given to the School of Music. Nealeigh is the Building, the Kansas City Art Institute. She has studied a faculty member who has held an ongoing Equipment and Inventory Support Associate for abroad at the International Ceramics Studio in appointment in the Hixson-Lied College of Fine the School of Music. Kecskemèt, Hungary. 17 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Jazz program wins two national Downbeat magazine awards The School of Music has won two awards in DownBeat’s Student Music Awards, announced April 26. The Jazz Ensemble I, under the direction of Associate Professor Paul Haar, won Undergraduate College Outstanding Performance honors in the large jazz ensemble category. Undergraduate student Karl Lyden was named the Undergraduate College Winner for Original Composition Orchestrated Work for his composition, “Downside Up.” The 34th Annual DownBeat Magazine Student Music Awards is an esteemed competition for middle school, high school and college students to showcase their talent and be recognized for their musical skills. Students record their music on a CD and submit it for judging by professional musicians and educators from across the country. Judging criteria is based on musicianship, creativity, improvisation, technique, sound quality and balance, excitement and authority. Awards are given in 15 categories in five different divisions. “DownBeat is known as the ‘Jazz Bible’ in the jazz idiom, and these awards are very prestigious,” Haar said. “Our students were Jazz Ensemble I. Photo courtesy of the School of Music. submitted against programs from coast to coast, including some of the biggest schools of music create the piece. many things that I want to put into a piece, and in the nation. I am extremely proud of these “Karl is an excellent young musician and I know if I put them all down, then it wouldn’t students and the faculty who have helped mentor an outstanding student,” Richards said. “He is make sense at all. So I try to put on paper what them.” blessed with the unique combination of copious the players can easily play, and the audience can Lyden is a senior music performance major amounts of talent, musicality and intellect, all of relate to. That’s the big challenge, but also the and biology minor from Omaha, Neb. He has which is tempered with a great sense of humor.” most rewarding thing about composition.” participated in the UNL Symphonic Band, UNL Professor of Trombone Scott Anderson said Lyden said the bar is now set high for his Wind Ensemble, UNL Jazz Ensemble I and the Lyden is musically curious. future composition writing. UNL Jazz Combo II and III. He has attended “Karl is one of the most versatile trombonists “Now that this has happened, there’s really many honor bands and to ever attend UNL. He is adept at a variety no option for me slacking off at all because I festivals, including of different styles and more importantly, he is set the bar for myself so high,” Lyden said. “I the Metropolitan Area interested in all kinds of music,” Anderson said. think it’s great because now I’m going to dive Youth Jazz Orchestra, “Young students have never had so much access into everything else that I write to try to one-up Nebraska All-State Jazz to music in the form of recordings, and Karl takes myself.” Band and UNL Honor advantage of this by listening to everything he The Downbeat awards are not the only recent Jazz Weekend. In 2009, can. I have never had a student with as much accomplishment for the jazz program in the he was selected as the musical curiosity as Karl. It is not rare to find a School of Music. winner of the Nebraska young musician who works hard, nor is it rare The UNL Jazz Orchestra was named the Jazz Orchestra Young Jazz to find one with talent. To find a musician who Outstanding College Group at the Kansas Artist competition and has both attributes is what makes teaching so University Jazz Festival in March, and they are performed with them in rewarding.” working on their third CD, “Home Grown,” October 2009. Lyden said “Downside Up,” which runs which is scheduled to be released next spring and Lyden “Downside Up” about 7 ½ minutes, is a good opening piece for a will include Lyden’s “Downside Up.” was Lyden’s first big jazz concert. In addition, sophomore Mike Grimm won band chart that he composed. His previous “It starts out with a fast, energetic swing the Nebraska Jazz Orchestra Young Artist compositions were for six-person combos. melody. The first half is pretty bombastic,” Competition this spring and will perform with “Initially when I found out [about this Lyden said. “Then I decided to do something the orchestra on April 26. award], I was just trembling,” Lyden said. “I just unconventional for this type of tune. Instead of In the Fall of 2009, the School of Music added couldn’t believe it. I never could have imagined keeping it a fast swing, I cut the tempo in half. new Master of Music and Doctorate of Musical this would happen with one of the first significant The whole track almost sounds like two pieces Arts degrees with emphases in jazz studies, pieces that I wrote.” in one, except that the second half develops from making UNL one of the few schools in the Haar said it was a well-deserved honor. the first.” country with such a major. “He is the most humble kid on the planet,” He wrote his first composition the summer “The fact that the award for Outstanding Haar said. “But so talented. I couldn’t be more before his senior year of high school, but has only Ensemble and Best Undergraduate Composition proud of him.” been seriously studying composition since last was given to our Jazz Studies program while The piece was written last summer. Haar summer. it is still in its initial ‘growth phase’ bodes very wanted three students who were primarily “What I really like about composition is that well for the future,” Richards said. “I think players in the Jazz Ensemble to start writing you have an idea bopping around in your head, Jazz Studies at UNL is poised to develop into compositions for the ensemble, so Lyden worked and you’re trying to figure out a way to express a leading program on a national (perhaps even under the direction of Assistant Professor of it,” Lyden said. “The composition process can international!) level. It’s very exciting to consider Composition and Jazz Studies Eric Richards to be pretty chaotic for me because there are so the possibilities for the future!” 18 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Carson School undergraduate a ‘Glee Project’ Chicago finalist It seemed like a one-in-a-million chance to However, she learned later that between appear on Fox’s hit show “Glee” through open 4,000-5,000 people auditioned in both Chicago auditions in Chicago for “The Glee Project.” and Dallas. There were only 400 that made it Instead after one long and wild day, Johnny to her level, which meant she finished in the Carson School of Theatre and Film junior Nikki top 10 percent of those who auditioned live. Kelly finished as a Chicago finalist, finished in An additional 37,000 sent in applications online the top 10 percent of the live auditions in both through MySpace. Chicago and Dallas, and her voice and photo Producers chose about 100 people, from both are appearing in commercials for the reality TV the live and online auditions, for the semi-finals show, which began airing this summer. in Los Angeles in January before they picked 12 “The Glee Project” is a new reality show finalists for the show. on the Oxygen network that premiered in June “I was really heartbroken because I thought I where performers compete for a multi-episode was going,” Kelly said. “Then, it was kind of fun guest-starring role on season three of the hit because I could tell people about this really great series “Glee” on Fox. Open auditions were held Nikki Kelly (left) with friends Olivia Vandenberg thing that happened to me. It was a really fun in Chicago and Dallas in December and January. and Emily Barrett outside the Chicago Arts Academy process.” Kelly, a junior directing and theatre before their auditions for the Oxygen Channel’s Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film management student from Keokuk, Iowa, is a fan “The Glee Project” on Dec. 19. Photo courtesy of Director Paul Steger said he is not surprised by of the show. Nikki Kelly. her success at this audition. “When I came to college, watching ‘Glee’ “Nikki has been a wonderful student in the was kind of how I got to know the other college She sang “Alone” again for Ulrich, and he Johnny Carson School, taking advantage of every kids. We would all get together and watch it,” thanked her. She returned to the holding room to opportunity available, from acting to design, she said. “It’s one of those shows that’s theatrical, wait. from management to working with the student- which I rather enjoy, of course. And it’s a show A few minutes later, someone came out and run Theatrix Company. Her skills garnered that everyone can connect to, which is also really said, “Congratulations, you’ve made it to the her one of the coveted apprenticeships at the important.” next round.” Williamstown Theatre Festival last summer,” She arrived in Chicago and showed up Kelly had just watched five people audition he said. “Her diligence to make an opportunity with two friends at the auditions at the Chicago ahead of her, and just one other person had made happen with ‘The Glee Project’ demonstrates her Academy for the Arts on Dec. 19. They were it through. desire to succeed in the entertainment industry.” filtered into a room with hundreds of other “The whole time I’m wondering what’s And for Kelly, the experience isn’t over yet. people auditioning. happening,” she said, while crew members Oxygen ran a “Glee” marathon on Feb. 5. “It was literally just like what you see on congratulated her. “I got a text from one of my friends saying, ‘American Idol,’” Kelly said. “They brought TV Next she was ushered in to yet a third ‘Oh my gosh, Nikki. Your face was just on TV!’” cameras into the room and were having us do all waiting area. While she was waiting, someone She turned on the television to watch the sorts of things like on the count of three, yell ‘We from the show came up to her and told her they marathon and saw advertisements for “The Glee love Oxygen!’ and all that kind of stuff.” liked her personality and wanted to interview Project.” She hasn’t seen the one with her picture, They filled out paperwork and answered her separately with a TV camera to make sure but did hear her voice on another commercial. questionnaires with questions like “Tell us they had enough interview footage with her. “I say something incredibly cheesy like, ‘This something interesting about yourself.” Kelly, Finally, in the third and final round in is my dream, this is what I’ve always wanted to who was born with one hand, replied to that Chicago, she went into a room with just a do.’” question with “I paint my own fingernails.” woman and a camera, and participated in a For now, this will do. Her wait lasted around three hours, before final interview. They asked her things like what “Even though I didn’t get it, it’s fun because it was time for her room of contestants to go into she did in school and what her strengths and I got to be on it a little bit,” she said. “And who the audition. Kelly and three other people went weaknesses were. knows, the first show could be all about the into the smaller room, which had a judge. All She went back to wait. Finally, someone auditions, and I could be on that.” contestants picked from 10 songs to sing. Kelly from the show said, “Congratulations, you have Steger said these kind of national chose Heart’s “Alone.” made it to the final round in Chicago.” They opportunities are important for his students and “The judge said, ‘Okay, Nikki. We’d like you told her they would be sending her a form for the program. to stay and go on to the next round, the others, background information that she needed to fill “When our students participate successfully thank you for coming,’” she said. “And I just out and send back to their Los Angeles offices. in auditions at the national level, like ‘The Glee thought, ‘Okay….’” She would be contacted by Jan. 16 to see if she Project,’ it demonstrates the wealth of talent and Before she left, the judge asked her a made it to the final rounds in Los Angeles. depth of craft they’ve developed while a student question: “How do you paint your fingernails?” “I was like, ‘Okay. . . what?!” Kelly said. here at UNL,” he said. “It is extremely important Kelly replied, “I don’t know. How do I?” Next, she was told she had to keep all of this for our students to learn that their talent and The judge laughed and told her to keep that a secret and that everything that happened was craft, and their willingness to put it all on the answer. under wraps for now. line, will be the only way they can succeed. In She was filtered to another waiting oomr on “They even told us if you have to leave this business, you audition 99 percent of the the next floor and continued to wait. school [to go to Los Angeles], you have to time so you can actually work one percent of the Oxygen host Tiffany Smith interviewed magically disappear,” she said. time. It is great to know that our students are contestants as they entered and exited the next From there, she went home and the long representing the School’s values and competing audition room, where they would audition for month of waiting began, when she couldn’t tell at the national level.” “Glee” Casting Director Robert Ulrich. anyone but a few close family members and her Kelly also doesn’t know what other “When it came my turn, I did the cute little two Chicago friends. opportunities this could open up for her, having interview and was all excited,” Kelly said. “I “It was hard and fun not telling people,” auditioned for a national casting director. At the went in [to the audition room] and they said, Kelly said. “It’s fun now that I can tell people.” very least, she has an incredible story to tell. ‘Go stand on your mark.’ I was surrounded by Finally, it was announced that the show had “It was just a day of my life, but it was like cameras, and there was a guy sitting at a table, called everyone they wanted, and Kelly did not a day of my life that was a whirlwind of fun and and we just chatted for a bit.” make the semi-finalist cut. had me really excited,” she said. 19 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Ezinma Trio are Arriaga Finalists Carson School senior wins The Ezinma Trio, a student chamber trio in the “We played in a gymnasium on an older Ryan Acting contest at School of Music, were finalists in the J.C. Arriaga upright piano,” Paek said. “And we still reached Chamber Music Competition. The Trio competed out. As a student musician, it doesn’t matter regional ACTF at the competition, sponsored by the Treetops what we have. It matters what we do with it—in Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film Chamber Music Society, on April 10 at the Allegro everything, really.” senior Sam Hartley, and his scene partner, Pianos Recital Hall in Stamford, Ct. The entire experience gave them a taste of the Cami Philgreen, who received her Bachelor The Ezinma Trio includes Michael Glur- life of a professional musician. of Music degree in May, won the Irene Ryan Zoucha, piano, a Bachelor of Music junior from “We all learned a lot about being a better Acting Scholarship Competition at the Region Columbus, Neb.; Meredith Ramsay, violin, a musician, learning music so fast,” Paek said. V Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Bachelor of Music junior from Omaha, Neb.; and “You have to be that much more mentally Festival in January at Iowa State University. Timothy Paek, cello, a Bachelor of Music junior focused and ready to perform at that level,” They were one pair of 296 nominees from from Lebanon, New Jersey. Their faculty mentors Ramsay said. “People see us as professionals in the six states included in Region V: Minnesota, are the members of the Chiara String Quartet. a lot of these communities, so we have to not Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, North Dakota and “We did not win, but it was a great only represent ourselves well, but our school and South Dakota. experience to compete with the level of some of make it that much better, so it’s a lot of pressure. In addition, Hartley and Philgreen won Best the more well-known music schools that the other But it’s an honor.” Musical Theatre Scene, and Philgreen received contestants came from,” Best Scene Partner honors. Paek said. “It is just Mike Lee and Jessie Tidball also competed in simply a stepping block the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship Competition. for a great future.” Master of Fine Arts in Directing for Stage and Research Assistant Screen candidate Aaron Sawyer was the runner- Professor Julie Yoon, up for the Stage Directors and Choreographers a member of the (SDC) National Directing Fellowship. Chiara String Quartet Undergraduate Trent Stork was selected in residence at UNL, into the semi-finalist round of the SDC Scene said the experience Audition Competition. of competing in this In the technical theatre field, five students competition would help earned certificates of merit for their work on last the Ezinma Trio. season’s main stage shows: Amber Naylor and “The Ezinma Jacob Boyett for scenic design; Matthew Baye for Trio competed at an lighting design; and Beth Skinner and Shannon international chamber Paulick for costume design. music competition In acting, more than 20 students participated where the jury consists in the professional auditions, and most were of two former and called back to the professional companies. current members of the More than 50 Johnny Carson School of American String Quartet, Theatre and Film students participated in the a quartet in residence at The Ezinma Trio outside Sandhills Public Schools in January. Left to right: Festival. the famed Manhattan Michael Glur-Zoucha, Meredith Ramsay and Timothy Paek. Photo courtesy of School of Music, and The Ezinma Trio. Bingaman-Burt Charles Neidich, a faculty member and renowned clarinetist at School of Music Director John W. Richmond returns to campus for the Juilliard School,” Yoon said. “To be playing said this is an important moment in their career. for musicians of this caliber and to compete “The Enzima Trio has enjoyed a tremendous Alumni Masters Week alongside professional and student chamber string of impressive successes in recent months, Kate Bingaman-Burt (M.F.A. Art 2004) returned groups from around the world is a pretty big the highlights of which include their successful to campus in November to share her experiences deal. The Chiara Quartet is absolutely thrilled.” grant applications to conduct an outreach tour and knowledge with students as part of the The Ezinma Trio has been together for 2 ½ across Nebraska and also to create recordings of annual Alumni Masters Week. years and played for the Chancellor’s State of the their performances for submissions to important This year marked the University address last Fall. competitions,” said School of Music Director 46th Alumni Masters Week, This spring, they embarked on a Tour John W. Richmond. “This invitation to appear a program sponsored by the Across Nebraska Concert Series, in which as Finalists at the J.C. Arriaga Chamber Music Nebraska Alumni Association, they performed and met with school children Competition is a natural outgrowth of these Scarlet Guard (the alumni in 14 communities across the state, including other projects. It is an exciting, ‘breakthrough’ association’s student group), Gothenburg, Chadron, Scottsbluff, Wayne, achievement for them and for our strategic plans Innocents Society, Mortar Columbus, David City, McCook and Peru. The pertaining to Chamber Music. I couldn’t be more Board and the Chancellor’s series was supported with a grant from the thrilled for them or proud of them.” Office. Bingaman-Burt Hixson-Lied Endowment. Yoon said their varying personalities help Since 1964, more than 250 “Just to have the School financially support make the Ezinma Trio successful. alumni have participated in Alumni Masters us and show that the really encourage what we’re “Their personalities are very different from Week. The selection of the Alumni Masters is doing is really exciting for us,” Ramsay said. “It one another, and I think this has allowed a competitive. Candidates are alumni who have really gives us a glimpse into professional life, wonderful working relationship to develop,” shown great promise, success and leadership in which we all want in the future.” Yoon said. “It often works well to have varying their fields. The members of the Trio arranged and personalities in a chamber group so that its Bingaman-Burt is an assistant professor of created the series, and did all of the planning, members can bounce distinct ideas off of each graphic design at Portland State University in organization and publicity for their Nebraska other. We are extremely proud of the hard work Oregon. She founded Obsessive Consumption in tour. they have put into developing the group’s 2002. Her first book, “Obsessive Consumption: One of their favorite locations to play was musical voice and look forward, with utmost What Did You Buy Today?” was published by Dunning at Sandhills Public School. hope, to their future success.” Princeton Architectural Press in April 2010. 20 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Screenplay contest held this spring for second film First Carson film ‘Vipers in the Grass’ completed The Carson School Film Series’ first film, “Vipers in the Grass” was screened for cast and crew last November at the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center. The Carson School Film Series involves students from each of the academic units— theatre, film, music and art—coupled with faculty and staff at Nebraska Educational Telecommunications working in conjunction with industry professionals to produce a short film. The first project, Vipers In The Grass, written and produced by Jorge Zamacona, involved more than 180 students, faculty, staff and industry professionals. The Carson School Film Series as a logical extension of the School’s mission—to provide students with unique educational experiences that prepare them for the professional world. “There’s no substitute for the actual experience of making a movie, and our goal is to blur the line between student and professional,” said Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film Director Paul Steger. This spring the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film held a comedy screenwriting competition for the next project and received 48 Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film Director Paul Steger (left) moderates a panel with faculty and script entries from throughout the NU system. professionals following the “Vipers in the Grass” screening Nov. 6. Panelists included (left to right) Associate The entries included faculty, students and staff at Professor of Film Rick Endacott, Assistant Professor of Film Sandy Veneziano, Associate Professor of Film the University of Nebraska campuses in Kearney, Sharon Teo Gooding, Actress Harley Jane Kozak, Technical Adviser Bob Heine and Assistant Director Ivan J. Lincoln and Omaha. Fonseca. Photo by Greg Nathan, University Communications. “This was a wonderful response for our first foray into making the Carson School Film Series College of Fine and Performing Arts, each of immediately following this announcement. a true collaboration between the campuses in the these finalists will receive a $500 award and are The Carson School Film Series is sponsored NU system,” Steger said. currently working with a former head of the by the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and A group of students vetted the screenplays Writer’s Guild on their scripts. Performing Arts and the Johnny Carson School over a six-week period and selected five possible The Grand Prize winner will have their of Theatre and Film. Funding is provided by the scripts that met all of the requirements. A select screenplay produced by the Johnny Carson Hixson-Lied Endowment and the Johnny Carson group of Carson School faculty selected the three School of Theatre and Film as part of the Carson Film and Broadcast Fund. finalists. School Film Series. The School will announce the With support from the Hixson-Lied winner in early fall and will start pre-production Mary Riepma Ross celebrates 100th birthday Family surrounds Mary Riepma Ross last fall high quality film and video: innovative for her 100th birthday celebration in New York American independent work including City. non-narrative, experimental films and University of Nebraska Foundation video; classic foreign and American cinema Director of Special Projects Lucy Buntain illustrative of traditional and historical Comine and Dean Emeritus Giacomo Oliva perspectives; documentaries which examine traveled to New York in September to present a wide variety of issues of concern; and her with an album with more than 100 wishes contemporary foreign cinema of substance. from her UNL friends and fans. Ross, a long-time supporter of the “Dean Oliva and I were so pleased to see theatre and resident of New York City, made Mary on such a milestone birthday and to a donation to the University of Nebraska present her with a book containing more than Foundation to fund the media arts center 100 letters from well wishers,” said Buntain named in her honor, which opened in 2003. Comine. “Because she loves the University of Shown at right in back, left to right: Nebraska and Lincoln, Mary was most grateful Andrea Stillman, Adrienne Hines and for all the birthday wishes from her Nebraska Christopher Hines. Kneeling, left to right, friends and fans.” are: Peter Gray, Christopher Gray, Mary The Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Riepma Ross, Adrienne Stillman and Erin Center, a comprehensive exhibition program Gray. Photo courtesy of Christopher Gray. which acknowledges the moving image as the principal art form of this century, is committed to screening a wide diversity of 21 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Meadowlark East Campus event highlights arts, agriculture connection by Sarah Smith community through their art. Education is about experience—engaging with For decades the University of Nebraska– the community helps provide that Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural experience.” Resources (IANR) has been responsible for Steve Waller, dean of the College providing agricultural outreach and education of Agricultural Sciences and Natural to Nebraska communities. Need to know how to Resources, was eager to work with Oliva successfully plant a garden? Nebraska Extension and the Meadowlark Music Festival to can help. What about ways to safely cook food make this year’s event on East Campus for you family? Extension is on it. IANR’s a success. According to Waller, it was Extension program has been associated with a lot important for families and children to of things in Nebraska, but the arts have not been visit and enjoy East Campus and be traditionally one of them. Until recently. excited about music and activities—but I’ll explain. But in order to do so, it’s more importantly perhaps was to get important to go over some UNL History 101. child excited about the idea of college in Our lesson starts with the Morrill Act of general. 1862—an act that would ultimately lay the “We want young people to see our foundation for the university’s development. campus and think, ‘I can do this,’” Waller A saxophone quartet from the School of Music’s Chamber Music Institute performs at the Maxwell Arboretum during The Morrill Act’s purpose was to fund the said. Meadowlark Invasion! on June 11. Photo by Sarah Smith. allocation of land in every state in order to “Meadowlark Invasion!” was the establish educational institutions focusing on final event of this year’s Meadowlark science, agriculture and engineering. It created Music Festival in Lincoln. The day featured 14 the land-grant college system, and over time a stations in various departments and colleges anything but traditional or predictable. major philosophy adopted by land-grant colleges across East Campus with music and educational Eggar performed music from his Grammy was to provide cooperative extension for rural workshops for the festivalgoers to experience. nominated album “Kingston Morning,” which communities. In 1869, the University of Nebraska The event wasn’t only open to the incorporates Jamaican, Appalachian and classical was founded in Lincoln as the first and only agricultural departments on campus—all colleges genres. Similarly, Huebner’s performance land-grant college in the state and based its on East Campus were invited to participate and highlighted song from his newly released album mission off of the idea of service and outreach. host stations for the festivities. Visitors had the “El Violin Latino,” which applies a Latin spin I see a hand raised in the back. What does this opportunity to be a “dentist for a day” and drill to classical violin. To top it all off, the music by information have to do with the Hixson-Lied College on tooth models at the UNL College of Dentistry, both artists was accompanied with a unique bit of Fine and Performing Arts? I’m glad you asked. view snakes and other reptiles at Hardin Hall, of percussion provided by step-dance group, It was this spirit behind the university’s see tractors in action at the Tractor Test Lab and Hammerstep, adding another element of land-grant origins and extension mission that more, while simultaneously being able to enjoy diversity to an already contemporary show. inspired Hixson-Lied Dean Emeritus Giacomo classical music performances by groups of music Cass noted that reaction to this year’s Oliva to begin collaboration with IANR and UNL students at 10 of the 14 stations. festival was one of the best yet, and Meadowlark Extension to bring the fine arts to rural Nebraska According to Tamara Cass, executive Invasion! boasted an attendance of nearly 450. and UNL’s East Campus. director of Meadowlark, one of the major goals Waller indicated in an interview during the event “I’ve always felt that the narrow definition of the East Campus event was to put music in that he was excited about the prospect of future of [the land-grant] was to provide extension. interesting places to highlight the excitement and collaboration between IANR Extension and the We should do this in fine and performing arts diversity found on East Campus. Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing as well. It’s a way to get the arts engaging with “East Campus is sometimes overlooked as Arts. This sentiment was echoed by Oliva. the public in a parallel way to sciences and the vibrant place that it is,” Cass said. “Cultural “I hope that our College will continue to researchers,” Oliva said. events help draw the community onto campus.” value outreach and engagement. Change will In 2005, the College began partnering The Meadowlark Music Festival’s mission happen, and it’s important, but it’s important to with 4-H programs throughout the state by continues to be to expose as many people from shape things to the university’s strengths,” he providing student interns for summer camps different backgrounds and educational levels said. focusing on arts, theatre and music. In 2007, the to classical music as possible. It therefore was The principles of community outreach and UNL School of Music’s Chiara String Quartet natural that the festival, through its partnership cooperative extension behind the land-grant traveled to venues in western Nebraska as part with the university, would embrace the spirit system remain as important for UNL and the of a collaborative outreach initiative through the behind UNL’s land-grant and cooperative state of Nebraska today as they did when the Chancellor’s Office, the Hixson-Lied College outreach roots, and ultimately the idea of an East university was founded in 1869. The spirit of the and IANR. The Hixson-Lied College of Fine Campus venue. land-grant then was to elevate Nebraskans to a and Performing Arts even helped revive the “The arts naturally connect the community higher plane of existence by teaching people how East Campus Choir by incorporating it into its to any place,” Cass said. “Meadowlark takes to live and to embrace agriculture. Now, through Doctoral Assistantship Program. music to interesting venues. It creates a the unique collaboration between the Hixson- This year, the collaboration resulted in great event when people can enjoy music in Lied College and IANR, extension can also be a never-before-seen event at UNL. Partnered unexpected places.” about embracing the culture within agriculture. with Lincoln’s Meadowlark Music Festival, the This year’s Meadowlark Invasion! “I think you’ll find we’re one of the only College and IANR worked together to coordinate event culminated with a performance by the schools in country doing outreach like this a daylong musical and educational event with festival headliners: Cellist Dave Eggar with through a formal relationship between arts and many of the colleges on UNL’s East Campus. his band Deoro and violinist Gregor Huebner. agriculture,” Oliva said. For Oliva, these programs and events are Meadowlark Invasion! provided activities highly In a state like Nebraska, what relationship important because they allow fine arts students non-traditional for the average classical music could be more serendipitous? to learn through service. festival by incorporating different colleges, “The Hixson-Lied College of Fine and focuses and backgrounds into one event. A Sarah Smith is a recent broadcasting production Performing Arts is committed to providing similar comparison can be made the main graduate from the UNL College of Journalism and Mass students with an opportunity to give back to musical performance of the evening, which was Communications. She is from Davey, Neb. 22 NEWSLETTERF&PA SUMMER 2011 Meadowlark 10th anniversary in 2010 UNL grad student to teach by Carson Vaughan ceramics in Turkey on

Variegated lawn chairs unfold across the vineyard Fulbright fellowship as July’s pastel sun sinks beyond the tree line. A by Christine Scalora for University twist of the tuning knobs perfects the low-pitch of Communications the cello; snippets of harmony flow from the stage. Wine glasses tink and clink, beads of the St. Croix Department of Art and Art History graduate red clinging to the rims, a toast from one crowded student Alexandria Knipe of Carbondale, Colo., blanket to the next. will travel to Turkey to conduct research on “It’s very great to be here again in this ancient Islamic pots on a Fulbright fellowship. beautiful town,” says Kira Kraftzoff, a cellist with She will also continue to make pottery, and with the Rastrelli Cello Quartet. the help of a translator, will teach ceramics at The Rastrelli Cello Quartet’s performance at Meadowlark concert outside Kimball Recital Hall in Erciyes University in Kayseri, Turkey. the Deer Springs Winery was just one of a handful 2010. Photo by Carson Vaughan. Knipe is a Master of Fine Arts student with of events celebrating the 10th anniversary of an emphasis in ceramics. She plans to graduate Lincoln’s Meadowlark Music Festival in 2010. “recommitting and reinventing itself for its second in December 2012 or May 2013. She received a Some of the night’s attendees had been coming for decade,” Cass said. bachelor’s in Fine Arts from the University of years. Others, like Lied Center executive director According to Giacomo Oliva, dean Minnesota in 2004. In 2000, she received degrees Bill Stephan, were there for the first time. emeritus of the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and in Environmental Studies and Religious Studies “I’m excited to be at my first Meadowlark Performing Arts, part of that expansion is growing from Eckerd College. event,” Stephan said. “I’m a fan of the Rastrelli the festival’s ties with the School of Music’s In Turkey, Knipe will study ancient ensemble and looking forward to spending a annual Chamber Music Institute. Anatolian, or Turkish, pottery that was produced nice evening outside enjoying some high quality “The hope is that the Meadowlark Festival from the 9th to the 14th century C.E., when three music.” will become more formally integrated into the neighboring empires rose to power—the Abbasid, Ten years ago, however, this wasn’t the entire chamber music focus in the School of Fatimid and Meadowlark vision; in fact, there was no vision Music,” he said. Ayyubid for year 10. Although now a battle-tested, decade- The idea of formally uniting the two entities empires. old establishment, founder Ann Chang and the originally spawned from the School of Music’s These original organizers remained focused on the single strategic planning process, according to John empires event ahead of them. Richmond, professor and director of the School of were “It was very challenging to keep our minds Music. thriving focused on the first year because we were so “The faculty and I identified chamber ceramic excited and saw so much potential in this project,” music as one of just a few areas that would be centers, said Chang, a classical pianist. “But we made a strategically important for us going forward,” he Knipe said, Knipe pact with ourselves that we would put all our said. “Ann Chang and I began to work on ways in and she will efforts and energy into that first year with no which the School and Meadowlark could partner research how the empires influenced Anatolian plans to continue. It was a nice combination of together, and it was out of those discussions that ceramics. having a goal to be excellent without this giant this collaboration emerged.” “These pots were some of the first pots that shadow of trying to be perfect for eternity.” The first collaboration came in 2004, with I ever fell in love with, because of their surfaces,” Ten years ago, they weren’t expecting to the co-sponsorship of the Chiara String Quartet, she said. The surfaces are unique, Knipe said, be named the “Festival to Watch” by Chamber who headlined the summer festival and became because the pots are designed to look like Chinese Music America—although they were. And 10 the first-ever artists-in-residence at the UNL porcelain. They are made out of a different type of years ago, they weren’t expecting to make it past Chamber Music Institute. Since then, a number clay and fired at a much lower temperature, and the first stage, what Chang calls the festival’s of both professional and student musicians have the glazes are layered in elaborate patterns. “childhood”—although they have. benefitted from the collaboration. Knipe is excited to make pottery in a foreign “But after the conclusion of the first season we “The festival was a chance for me to be country for the first time. sensed almost right away that this was going to around professional performers,” said 21-year- “I have never done that and it will be full of remain,” said Chang, who also served as executive old Jack Latta, a percussion performance major many challenges that will push my work in new director and artistic director for the festival’s first at UNL who helped to organize last year’s directions,” she said. “The materials that I will six seasons and is now the artistic director for the performances. “For performance majors, exposure work with are all different, different clay and Lied Center for Performing Arts. “From what I see to professional performers lets us see what it’s glaze materials.” now 10 years out, I’m honored to see it become a really like to make a living playing music.” Peter Pinnell, Hixson-Lied Professor of mainstay in Nebraska. People expect it and want it.” But between Chang and the current festival Ceramics and Interim Chair of the Department of Venues at last year’s festival included the organizers, the consensus seems to indicate the Art and Art History, said Knipe will learn about Sheldon Museum of Art’s sculpture garden, festival has evolved positively since year one and the traditional Turkish pottery, which includes Grace Lutheran Church in Walton, Neb., the Deer has ample room to continue doing so. some processes that are different from what is Springs Winery and UNL’s Kimball Recital Hall. “They’re growing, reaching more people commonly practiced in the U.S. “Ann Chang and the other amazing in Nebraska. Their length is getting longer, “Like many of us in ceramics, Alix is supporters who began the festival in 2000-2001 partnerships are getting bigger and the quality interested in historical pottery from around the had the wonderful idea of taking beautiful music of performances is always getting better,” Chang world,” he said. “Pottery is a reflection of the out of the concert hall and into unique venues said. “Will Meadowlark as you see it today be culture that produced it. Besides learning other around the community,” said Tamara Cass, who around in 30 years? I sincerely hope not, because techniques and processes, Alix will have the has served as the festival’s executive director since then it hasn’t grown. I hope it’ll be around in opportunity to learn a great deal more about November 2009. “I plan to continue with that a different, meaningful way that speaks to the Turkish culture.” mantra and expand Meadowlark with more year- generation of the time.” Knipe said her passion for art comes from round opportunities.” her parents, both artists. Expansion is a relatively new objective for Carson Vaughan, from Broken Bow, Neb., graduated in “When I was little I didn’t get Barbie, I got the festival, which is currently in the process of December 2010 with majors in journalism and English. scissors and paper,” she said. 23 Hixson–Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts 102 Woods Art Building 12th and R Streets

Lincoln, NE 68588-0144

performances and private receptions, even while while even receptions, private and performances Reprinted from the April 28, 2011, Scarlet. 2011, 28, April the from Reprinted addition on April 29. April on addition

for cultural programs, education events, smaller smaller events, education programs, cultural for at the groundbreaking for the Lied Commons Commons Lied the for groundbreaking the at

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university, our many rental clients, and —most —most and clients, rental many our university, the 20-year-old venue. With a separate northeast northeast separate a With venue. 20-year-old the Nebraska Foundation President Terry Fairfield and and Fairfield Terry President Foundation Nebraska

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Chancellor Harvey Perlman, UNMC Chancellor Chancellor UNMC Perlman, Harvey Chancellor

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