This year, our senior high choral students had a unique and exciting opportunity to collaborate with nationally recognized composer Mark Burrows to create an original piece of music. The project gave students a firsthand look at the creative process behind composing and allowed them to help shape a work that would ultimately be premiered at the High School Spring Concert.
Students began the collaboration by sharing their thoughts, ideas, and experiences with Mr. Burrows. They reflected on musical selections they had enjoyed performing in the past, pieces in which they felt particularly successful, and topics they were passionate about. Using these student contributions as inspiration, Mr. Burrows crafted a brand-new composition specifically for our ensemble.
The culmination of this special project took place at the Spring Concert, where the original work was premiered before family, friends, and community members. Making the evening even more memorable, Mr. Burrows himself conducted the performance, giving students the rare opportunity to perform a work under the direction of its composer.
Mr. Burrows is no stranger to Westmoreland's music program. Over the years, our choirs have performed several of his compositions and arrangements. This winter, the Junior High Choir performed December Canon, and many longtime members of the Westmoreland community may remember Select Chorus performances of one of their favorites, Ding Dong Merrily on High, which was also arranged by Mr. Burrows.
In addition to conducting the premiere, Mr. Burrows spent time working with students throughout the day, discussing composition, musical interpretation, and the creative process. Students gained valuable insight into how music is written and developed, while also learning about the many career opportunities available in the field of music.
Mark Burrows is a composer, conductor, and educator whose music is published by many major publishing houses. His works are featured on numerous state and festival music lists, and he receives commissions from ensembles across the country, ranging from children's choirs and school groups to adult ensembles and intergenerational festival choirs.
Mr. Burrows earned his undergraduate degree in Music Education from Southern Methodist University and his graduate degree in Conducting from Texas Christian University. He currently serves as a choral editor for Heritage Music Press and as Director of Children's Ministries at First United Methodist Church in Fort Worth, Texas.
The evening also included a special recognition for one of Westmoreland's outstanding student musicians. Samantha Parzych was awarded a $1,500 scholarship from the Oneida County Music Educators' Association in recognition of her dedication, talent, and commitment to music education. Samantha will attend SUNY Fredonia this fall, where she plans to major in Music Education.
Samantha's achievement reflects the strength of Westmoreland's music program and the dedication she has demonstrated throughout her high school career. We congratulate her on this well-deserved honor and wish her continued success as she pursues her passion for music and teaching.
This collaboration was an extraordinary learning experience for our students and a testament to the strength of Westmoreland's music program. We extend our sincere thanks to Mr. Burrows for sharing his talent, expertise, and passion with our students. The opportunity to create and perform an original composition alongside a nationally recognized composer is an experience our students will remember for years to come.
Congratulations to all of our student musicians and directors on an outstanding Spring Concert and a successful year of musical achievement.
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