Music is a universal language many gain an appreciation for through learning and experience.
By bringing in highly renowned artists to teach masterclasses and share words of wisdom with Baker University music students, new perspectives are placed on musical practices.
On Monday, Rice Auditorium housed students from Kansas high schools and middle schools for the opportunity to listen to the choral ensemble Chanticleer conduct a masterclass with the Baker University choirs.
“This is the first time I have done a masterclass with the choirs,” Director of Choral Activities Matthew Potterton said. “It is beneficial to bring in someone else with expertise in this area for students to learn from.”
Chanticleer is a world-known ensemble of 12 male vocalists who showcased a range of songs during their performance. The Baker choirs then were brought on stage to sing for the group in order to receive a critique.
First encountering Chanticleer in high school, junior Joylin Hall found the masterclass helpful when hearing the guidance given by group members on ways to improve.
“I feel like this was a great experience,” Hall said. “We talk a lot in class about the same things they talked about. When it is being explained and coming from someone other than your conductor, it holds more weight. It really was an honor.”
Both Baker’s Baldwin City campus and the community are welcomed to attend the next masterclass, being hosted between 12:30 p.m. and 2:15 p.m. Friday in McKibbin Recital Hall with the Erin Bode Group.
After hearing vocalist Erin Bode and her band perform at a jazz house two years ago, Professor of Music J.D. Parr asked if they would be willing to come teach a class to his students.
“They came two years ago, and students have been asking for them to come back ever since,” Parr said. “During the masterclass, they will be giving a mini concert, answer questions, talk about their lives and critique any brave students willing to perform in front of them.”
Based in St. Louis and making the Billboard’s chart in 2006 for Top Jazz Albums, the group members share stories with students of how, after college, they were able to use music in ways they never imagined.
The Erin Bode Group will have a free performance again at 7:30 p.m. Friday in McKibbin Recital Hall, which will be open to the public.
