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Challenging, Inspiring, Fulfilling |
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Shortly after the dedication of the
Center for the Arts in 1999, an anonymous gift gave wings to
the long-time dream of establishing a School of Music at
Houghton College.
When the State of New York granted
approval to the graduate program in 2002, the dream became a
reality. The graduate program builds on the undergraduate
experience, striving to produce students with “deeper
musicianship—not only better technique, but an expanded and
enriched understanding of what it means to be a musician,”
according to Professor of Piano Bob Galloway, who serves on
the graduate steering committee. In May 2005, Alicia
(Atwater ’03/’05) White (pictured) became the first to earn a
One of the great advantages of the program is the invaluable experience and individual attention the students receive through assistantships, private lessons and seminar class discussions. There is a strong commitment to nurturing our Christian worldview as we discern our role as Christians in the music profession. The unique, year-long course Music in a Christian Perspective used readings, guest lectures, class forums and reflection papers to stimulate and develop our thoughts and help us answer questions like “What is the purpose of music?” “What is worship?” “How is music used in liturgy?” and “What characterizes Christian art?” This course helped me define and refine my convictions about music and God’s intended purposes for it both in the church and in our world. I found it enriching to be involved in collaborative music-making and academic instruction aimed toward excellence and the giving of ourselves and our talents to God. My experience at Houghton was academically challenging, spiritually inspiring and musically fulfilling. Upon graduating, I felt thoroughly prepared to satisfy any musical aspirations, whether performing, teaching or conducting. As soon as I returned home, I was hired at my high school alma mater to finish the school year for a teacher who had to leave. The job turned into a permanent position teaching vocal and general music in grades 6-12. I am proud to say that Houghton College and The Greatbatch School of Music provided me with the skills I needed, allowing me to be a confident and effective teacher. The graduate program is another reflection of the abundant ways the Lord continues to bless our campus and community.—Alicia (Atwater ’03/’05) White |
master’s degree from The Greatbatch School of Music. Today
she runs the choral program at Barker (NY) Central School.
Milieu asked her to reflect on her experience as a
graduate student, and since.