On Thursday, April 26, 2018, 7:00 p.m. at the Palladium of St. Petersburg College (SPC), the SPC Music Department will present a Tribute Concert to alum Lance Gaskill, and family’s, pioneering music education contributions in Kigali, Rwanda. The Tribute Concert will feature SPC’s Community Concert Band, Community Wind Symphony, members of the SPC Chorus, and young musicians from Safety Harbor Middle School. Retired Eastman School of Music trombone professor, and former Principal trombonist of the National Symphony Orchestra, John Marcellus is a featured soloist.
SPC and Safety Harbor Middle School students spent the semester preparing and collaborating with communities in Africa. Engagement included multiple Skype sessions with the Rwanda Rising musicians. Mr. Gaskill shared his journey as a Pinellas County native and his calling to build a band and orchestra program in Kigali. Rwandan low brass students were treated to a personalized coaching session with Dr. John Marcellus, and we hope to have a continued presence via social media and future projects.
The experience opened SPC students’ eyes to the depth of possibilities post-graduation. Kyle Collins, SPC percussionist shared, “I’m impressed with what Mr. Gaskill was able to create and contribute to that community. Having the Skype session with the Rwandan students displayed how music has an impact around the world, and how it really connects with everyone.”
Bo Garrard, SPC saxophonist, “Mr. Gaskill is the kind of person you’d want to do that job. He has a plan and a drive, but does so in a selfless manner.”
SPC professor of music, Jeff Donovick, was ecstatic with the success of the interaction. “Lance is such a great spokesperson and facilitator. Being able to bridge the connection between the Rwandan culture and ours through the technology is inspiring. I was also very impressed with the Rwandan students. Seeing their motivation for achievement is noteworthy, and it was motivating for me and our students.”
SPC vocalist, Hannah White, “Lance Gaskill showed us how we can use our music education and training in a completely new way. Sometime we can be a bit selfish as we try to attain our goals. Mr. Gaskill epitomizes being selfless and using your talents and abilities to help others.”
The concert will take place at 7:00 p.m. on April 26, 2018 at the Palladium of St. Petersburg College. 253 Fifth Ave N. St. Petersburg, FL 33701. First come first serve for seating. Palladium capacity is 800. Questions may be director to SPC director of bands, Professor Nathan Muehl. muehl.nathan@spcollege.edu 727-341-4325
Questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you!
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