They say practice makes perfect. And what better time to practice when you're a college student than during the final hours of the day.
For 10 years, Music ’til Midnight has given CUW student-musicians the chance to practice their performance etiquette and ease into the art of it by playing for their peers in a relaxed, affirming setting.
From 10 p.m. to midnight last night a total of 17 musicians performed 20 selections as part of the Organ Club’s annual event. Students shared pieces they’re working on for music lessons or just a selection that they enjoy playing.
“Last night offered a nice chance to perform with no pressure,” said Hannah Engwall, a parish music major from St. Petersburg, Florida and this year’s Organ Club president. “It’s come to be a fun tradition, especially amongst music majors at Concordia.”
In case you missed it, here are a few musicians who showcased their talents this year:
Hunter Kinnison
“A Mighty Fortress is Our God”
Hymn 578
“Since large group singing is not in everyone’s best interest right now and there aren’t hymnals in the pews, I decided to play a few well-known hymns,” said Kinnison.
He also improvised on some hymns with a brass trio of friends – trombonist Alex Lauersdorf, and sophomore trumpeters Zach Peppel and Zach Roeglin.
Sarah Nus and Elizabeth Paul
“Kiki and Kuku Go For A Walk”
“This is one of my favorite events of the year, so I’m always eager to tell people about it so they can enjoy it too,” said Nus.
“I decided to perform because I think it’s a fun opportunity to play for friends,” said Paul.
Hannah Engwall
“Prelude and Fugue in B Minor by J.S. Bach“
In July, she was awarded a prestigious $2,500 American Guild of Organists scholarship by the Connecticut Chapter of the AGO.
“For those who played, it was a stress free time to become accustomed to playing in front of an audience. Last year, one student even put together a small choir of friends to perform a piece he composed,” added Engwall, who performed one selection that will comprise part of her senior organ recital next May.
About 40 students came to enjoy the event last night, and the chapel was filled with supportive clapping until the clock struck midnight.
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