Washburn University Department of Music and Theatre Offer Free Musical Performances throughout February; The Public is Invited

Topeka, Kan. – The Washburn University department of music and theatre will host performances throughout February featuring music students and faculty. These concerts are free and open to the public.

Middle School Honor Ban

- 4 – 5 p.m., Feb. 2
- White Concert Hall on the Washburn University campus

The Washburn University department of music and theatre will host more than 100 middle school students from 13 local schools for the annual Middle School Honor Band. The students will participate in a day-long clinic which will conclude with a performance in White Concert Hall at 4 p.m. The concert is free and open to the public. Cheryl Parisi is leading the band as this year's guest conductor.

Parisi, a distinguished music educator with a career spanning since 1990, has been a driving force in nurturing musical talent. Notably, she dedicated more than two decades as the band director at St. Thomas More Catholic School in Kansas City. Currently, she shares her musical wisdom as a teacher in the Lee Summit school district and serves as an esteemed honor band clinician across the Midwest.

Beyond her roles in education, Parisi’s dedication to music extends to her work as a freelance clarinetist in the Kansas City area. Her multifaceted abilities, exemplified by attending the Interlochen Summer Arts Academy and earning distinctions at Ithaca College, contribute to her holistic approach to teaching. Notably, she recently received the prestigious Broadway World's (Kansas City) award for best music direction, underscoring her exceptional contributions to the field.

Dr. Lucy Tan Faculty Piano Recital

- 3 – 4: 30 p.m., Feb. 4
- White Concert Hall on the Washburn University campus

Dr. Lucy Tan, Washburn University department of music and theatre lecturer and director of keyboard studies, will present a faculty recital. Tan will perform works by Chopin, Beethoven, Amy Beach, Chen Yi and Clara Schumann. Those interested in learning more about Tan may visit her faculty profile page at https://www.washburn.edu/our-faculty/lucy-tan.

For students wishing to gain hands-on experience, the Washburn University department of music and theatre will host Washburn Piano Day Feb. 25 for piano students in grades K – 12. This event is $10 per student. Learn more and register to attend now at https://secure.touchnet.net/C21751_ustores/web/store_main.jsp?STOREID=12&clearPreview=true&SINGLESTORE=true%3E. Registration is open through Feb. 18.

I Love Cello Day Festival

- 3 – 4 p.m., Feb. 10
- White Concert Hall on the Washburn University campus

The Washburn Cello Association is sponsoring the I Heart Cello Day Festival. This is a bi-annual event that will bring 200 cellists from all over northeast and central Kansas to celebrate the love of cello, learn and perform music for cello ensemble. There will be four different ensembles ranging from beginners to professionals that will rehearse throughout the day, then come together to perform a concert in White Concert Hall at 3 p.m. This short concert is free and open to the public. If you would like to know more about this event, contact Erinn Renyer at erinn.renyer@washburn.edu.

Quey Percussion Duo at Washburn University

- 7: 30 – 8:30 p.m., Feb. 15
- Garvey Fine Arts Center, Room 143, on the Washburn University campus

For nearly two decades, the Quey Percussion Duo has captivated audiences worldwide with their unique blend of contemporary, cross-cultural, classical and popular music traditions. Their performances create vibrant soundscapes that highlight interlocking counterpoint and musical multi-tasking. Prepare to be dazzled as the duo transforms the basic acts of striking, shaking and scraping into a burst of energy, a splash of curiosity and a pinch of whimsy. This promises to be a night of musical exploration and innovation.

Dr. Von Hansen Faculty Percussion Concert

- 3 – 4 p.m. Feb. 18
- White Concert Hall on the Washburn University campus

Dr. Von Hansen will showcase his talent with an original composition, promising a unique and entrancing experience for attendees. The program will feature not only Hansen's composition but also exciting masterworks, showcasing the versatility of percussion. Adding to the excitement, the Washburn Faculty Jazz Ensemble will join the stage, creating a harmonious fusion of styles and genres. This collaborative effort is expected to deliver an unforgettable performance filled with dynamic rhythms and expressive melodies. The event is open to all music enthusiasts, students and the wider community.

Washburn Choral Concert

- 7:30 p.m., Feb. 21
- Grace Cathedral, 701 SW 8^th

Washburn vocal students will perform a concert utilizing the acoustics of Grace Cathedral. This concert is free and open to the public.

Washburn Jazz Ensemble

- 7:30 p.m., Feb. 29
- White Concert Hall, on the Washburn University campus

The Washburn University Jazz Ensemble will perform their first concert of the spring semester. This concert is free and open to the public.

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