From February 14th to 17th, The music department of Washington Adventist University(WAU) will host the annual MusicFest, promising an exhilarating three-day journey of musical exploration, culminating in a captivating final performance on Saturday, February 17th at Sligo Church. During these days, high schools and academies from all around the country are welcomed on campus to join the music department and experience a taste of WAU.
This year, 2024, the university attracted the largest number of participants in its history, claiming 275 deserving students selected among 9 different high schools and academies. These are the schools that will attend the 2024 MusicFest: Atholton Adventist Academy, Blue Mountain Academy, Forest Lake Academy, Highland Academy, Highland View Academy, Mount Pisgah Academy, Spencerville Adventist Academy, Spring Valley Academy, and Takoma Academy.
Designed to provide aspiring young musicians with a comprehensive musical experience, the program offers participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in band, orchestra, and choir performances, all under the guidance of WAU’s faculty members. A cornerstone of the MusicFest experience is the provision of ensemble rehearsals, private lessons, and master classes, allowing students to refine their skills and broaden their musical horizons.
Reflecting on the challenges and rewards of orchestrating such an ambitious event, Dr. Liu, the MusicFest director, emphasized the intensity and sense of accomplishment that defines the MusicFest. “It’s a busy time and it is very intense,” remarked Dr. Liu. “You don’t get a lot of sleep, but this is an opportunity for students who have never played together to perform in a group at a very high level. At the end of the week, we hope students can be proud of what they’ve accomplished and also have created memories that will last a lifetime.”
Beyond its musical offerings, the MusicFest also serves as a platform for identifying and nurturing promising talent, with the music department actively scouting for prospective students who demonstrate exceptional skill and dedication. For high school participants, the event presents a unique opportunity to showcase their talents in a series of rigorous rehearsals and performances, potentially paving the way for future scholarships and educational opportunities.
