In celebration of its “Year of the Alumni,” the Music Department is presenting several performances that showcase the talents of its former students, ranging from guest conductors to commissioned compositions for its ensembles to play.
Sarah Wallin Huff (’06) is one of several alumni who are returning to perform with current students. A violinist, composer, author and instructor who has continued to play with the Cal Poly Pomona MIDI Ensemble since graduating, Huff says she treasures her days as a student, when she composed, performed and developed strong bonds with the faculty.
“I enjoy sharing my experiences with the current students and hope to provide some encouragement that there’s a ‘light at the end of the tunnel’ of study and a wonderful life ahead of them after college,” Huff says. “I hope to inspire them to go out and take every opportunity that comes their way and to make the most of their journey forward.”
All events will be held in the Music Recital Hall unless otherwise noted. The schedule is as follows:
- The Kellogg Chamber Singers and the University Concert Choir will join an orchestra, Cal Poly Pomona choral alumni, and professional vocalists – soprano Deborah Mayhan, alto Niké St. Clair, tenor Brandon Hynum and bass Abdiel Gonzalez – in a performance of the Mozart Requiem on Saturday, March 9. The performance will be held at the La Verne Church of the Brethren.
- Huff and her group, “String Theory Quartet,” will perform alongside the Cal Poly Pomona String Ensemble on Tuesday, March 12.
- Daniel Sandt (’05) and Will Hunt (’11) will participate in a performance by the Cal Poly
Pomona Concert Band on Wednesday, March 13, at the University Theatre. Sandt, who is the instrumental music director at San Dimas High School, will direct highlights from the musical “Les Miserables.” Hunt will compose an original piece for the band. Other works include Second Prelude by George Gershwin and Carmina Burana by Carl Orff.
Tickets for all events are available online at: csupomona.tix.com. They also can be purchased at the Music Recital Hall box office from noon to 1 p.m., Monday to Friday, and one hour before show time.
(Photo: file photo of a University Concert Choir performance.)