Music Dept. Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Free Concert

It’s hard to believe that an accredited music program was once unheard of at GW. While the University cultivated a band and a thriving choral group that performed for U.S. troops overseas, it wasn’t until 1960 that acclaimed violinist and chamber musician George Steiner arrived at the University to found a formal, degree-granting music program. Today, the department boasts a faculty of scholars and creative artists and a host of accomplished student musicians. On February 7, a celebratory free concert marking the department’s golden anniversary will be held at the Lisner Auditorium—all are welcome to attend.

“It’s a showcase concert,” said Music Chair Karen Ahlquist. “We’ll have choral music, jazz, the orchestra, wind ensemble, music by The Troubadours, and featured pieces that are significant to GW and to collegiate music traditions.” As an example of the latter, GW singers will perform Yale’s Whiffenpoof song in tribute to the best-known collegiate a cappella group in the United States.

When Ahlquist began planning a concert to mark the department’s 50th anniversary, there was one pressing question:  “How many performers will fit on the Lisner Auditorium stage?” It turns out the stage is big enough to accommodate the estimated 175 performers taking part in the lively finale. The performance roster includes the University Symphony Orchestra, the GW Troubadours, the University Singers, and the University Wind Ensemble.

The department that Steiner (who died in 2008) built has carved out an unusual place in music academics, largely thanks to its Washington, D.C., location. Students not only have an opportunity to perform before Washington audiences in outstanding venues, but they also benefit from exposure to and collaboration with distinguished and world-class musicians who pass through the nation’s capital.

"Our students have a lot of motivation, a lot of energy and a lot of commitment,” Ahlquist said. “Not only do they study music but they benefit from a full range of strong academic programs at Columbian College.”

For more information or to register to attend the anniversary celebration, visit https://secure.www.alumniconnections.com/olc/pub/GEW/events/event_order.cgi?tmpl=events&event=2240425.