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Tuned in to celebrate
It is fitting that since the Conservatory has been part of Mount Royal from day one that the centennial celebrations include an original piece of music.
Century — which will be performed for the first time at the June 3 Convocation — was composed for Mount Royal’s centennial by former Conservatory instructor John Abram.
“A new piece like this is always exciting,” says Conservatory Director Paul Dornian, “We’re very proud of the distinguished professionals in our faculty, and Mr. Abram’s composition, Century, is an example of the high caliber of work Conservatory instructors are well-known for.”
The Conservatory String Quintet — Leslie Anne Bowyer, Gabriel Kastelic, Rhonda Lun, Kumiko Sakamoto and Paul van der Sloot — will perform Century at both the morning and afternoon Convocation ceremonies.
Abram, who now calls Halifax home will not be in attendance, but is thrilled his work will be showcased at such an important event.
“When I received the commission from Mount Royal I was delighted to be able to be involved with the centennial. I have a long association with the Conservatory and it was nice to be able to write something that expressed that,” says Abram.
Honouring academic achievement
The piece is meant to represent “dignified closure” to academic endeavor.
For inspiration Abram started with a modern tool.
“I looked on YouTube to see examples of musical pieces identified with particular schools,” he explains. “This did not inspire me. Most were perfect to be played at football games on plastic trumpets — not what you want for convocation.
“I tried to write something that is user friendly and appealing, but dignified and sophisticated in keeping with the tone of a Mount Royal Convocation.”
Dornian adds: “This Convocation is very special for several reasons: not only does it fall during Mount Royal’s centennial celebrations, it is also President Dave Marshall’s final Convocation ceremony.
“It’s an opportunity to recognize Dave’s leadership in overseeing Mount Royal’s transition from a college to a university.”
Musical freedom
Though Abram will not be at Convocation physically, he will be there in spirit.
“I wish I could be there to hear it live — but I'll be in Halifax looking out my window at the fog,” says Abram.
“My thoughts are with the performers and I have given Paul Dornian instructions to convey to the musicians. Have fun with it — feel free to change notes if you have an inspiration — embellishment rather than repetition is always better.”
— Anika Van Wyk, June 2, 2011