WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., April 30, 2021 — West Liberty University’s Division of Music will hold its annual Honors Recital, at 7 p.m., Wednesday, May 5, in Elbin Auditorium, College Hall. The socially distanced concert is free and open to the public.
Singers will perform with their masks on and there also is a secure Zoom option available for those who prefer to attend virtually.
“Student performers are selected for the Honors Recital through a competitive audition and we are proud of these talented students who prevailed during this year of COVID,” said Dr. Gerald Lee, Professor of Piano.
Below are brief biographies for each of the five students performing in the Honors Recital:
Madison Bolyard is a sophomore pursuing the Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education. She is from Jane Lew, W.Va. and the daughter of Michelle and Chad Bolyard. Bolyard studies voice with Dr. Linda Cowan. Upon graduation, she plans to teach elementary music in the public schools, or at a private school, and is open to teaching music at the middle or high school level as well.
Emma Gragan is a sophomore pursuing the Bachelor of Music degree in both Flute Performance and Vocal Performance. She is from Burgettstown, Pa. and the daughter of Paige and Michael Gragan. Emma studies flute with Dr. Gail Looney. Upon graduation, she plans to continue her musical studies at the graduate level and always keep performing.
Charlotte Dotson is a freshman pursuing the Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education. She is from Jane Lew, W.Va. and the daughter of Kimberly and Daniel Burnside. Charlotte studies voice with Dr. Linda Cowan. Upon graduation, she plans to teach music in the public schools and continue her musical studies at the graduate level.
Doug Torres is a junior pursuing the Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education. He is from Ripley, W.Va. and is the son of Katherine and Brian Westfall. Doug studies tuba with Professor Evan Robinson. Upon graduation, he plans to teach band at the middle or high school level.
Lily Lawrence is a sophomore pursuing the Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance. She is from Coshocton, OH and the daughter of Angela Lynn and Joseph David Lawrence. Lily studies piano with Dr. Gerald Lee. Upon graduation, she plans to open her own studio and teach piano lessons.
Below is the secure Zoom link (with registration) for enjoying the concert on Zoom.
WLU’s Department of Music and Theater offers the Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance degree, the Bachelor of Arts in Music Education degree and the Bachelor of Music Technology degree programs. Students also may choose to minor in music. For complete information, please contact the music department at 304-336-8006.