FROM THE CHAIR
Dear Friends, 
I hope the 2011-2012 Music Department Newsletter reaches you in good spirits!
Last August, the Department of Music welcomed 35 new music majors to campus, giving us a grand total of 140 music majors. Approximately 300 students from across all disciplines participate in our ensemble offerings. As this publication reaches you, you can be assured that all 17 full-time faculty, 30 part-time faculty and each and every student associated with the Department of Music work hard to sustain the rich tradition and heritage associated with our fine institution.
Within the last year, music faculty travelled throughout the continental United States to give presentations, lectures and performances. International presentations and performances were given in China, Russia, Italy, France and Thailand. I’m also pleased to inform you that Drake music students performed or participated in events in China, Switzerland and England.
Our ensembles are also earning high distinctions and honors. The Drake Chamber Choir has been invited to perform at the American Choral Director’s Association North Central Division Conference in Madison, Wisconsin. Also, the Drake Wind Symphony will perform at the College Band Director’s National Association North Central Division Conference at the University of Central Michigan. Both performances are scheduled in February 2012. All of these endeavors speak highly of the department’s breadth and depth across its entire curriculum.
The partnership between Drake University, the Yamaha Corporation of America and West Music Company to raise funds towards the purchase of 70 keyboard instruments is in full swing. To help develop awareness of the piano campaign to potential donors, Yamaha and West Music are sponsoring the Drake Jazz Piano Series during the current academic year. The series features internationally renowned jazz pianists, Anthony Molinaro (November 4), Lynne Arriale (February 3, 2012) and Per Danielsson (May 4, 2012).
Over the years, the department of music has benefited from financial gifts from many of our alumni and friends. These gifts have allowed us to endow faculty positions; award scholarships to deserving students; purchase equipment and supplies; restore and/or update technology; and help present programs and performances. Without question, your financial support is crucial to the success of the program. Please consider continuing or initiating financial contributions by contacting us at your convenience. If you are aware of the names and contact information of talented prospective Drake students, please let us know so that we can make contact with these individuals.
I personally invite you to visit campus or to attend one of our performances. A list of music events may be obtained by going to: http://www.drake.edu/artsci/Music_Dept/index.html If you are an alumnus, please tell us about yourself or your career. Thank you very much for taking the time to read this publication.
Sincerely,
Clarence Padilla
Music Department Chair
Professor of Music (Clarinet)
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