Milligan University’s orchestra performed its spring concert April 25, celebrating the beauty of creation in honor of Earth Day. The concert explored the four classical elements—earth, air, water and fire—through a diverse selection of music by primarily living composers of varied ethnic backgrounds.
The program included “Cherry Tree” by Yukiko Nishimura, Gustav Holst’s “Moorside Suite,” Anne McGinty’s “Dances in the Wind,” Soon Hee Newbold’s bluegrass-inspired “Blue-Fire Fiddler,” Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Whistle Down the Wind,” James Taylor’s “Fire and Rain” and several other pieces.
The concert was directed by Dr. Kellie Brown. Concertmaster Guadalupe Raya led the orchestra, with principals Dennis Gibbons, Mollie Wainscott, Josiah Skitt and Alex Maxson.
“We have worked so hard,” said violinist Cheyenne Trujillo. “I’m so proud of the work that we’ve put in, and I am very grateful for Dr. Brown, who has mentored us through our musical journeys this semester.”
The performance lasted an hour and a half, including a 10-minute intermission.
Although the concert was free and open to the public, attendance was light, with the audience filling only about one-fourth of Seeger Chapel. Still, those who attended responded positively.
“I especially liked the first three pieces they did,” said freshman Connor Morgan. “I enjoyed the variety they had and the different musical choices they used.”
Next up is the Milligan Concert Choir’s “All Things New” performance, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. April 26 in Seeger Chapel.
Photo 1: Orchestras ovation after the concert in Seeger Chapel, Milligan University, TN, April 5, 2025. (©Emily Haas)
Photo 2: Orchestra preparing for the concert in Seeger Chapel, Milligan University, TN, April 5, 2025. (©Emily Haas)
Photo 3: Sallie Hatfield and Connor Morgan at the concert in Seeger Chapel, Milligan University, TN, April 5, 2025. (©Emily Haas)
About The Author
Emily Haas is a freshman from Hildesheim, Germany. She is a journalism major and a member of Milligan’s swim team. She enjoys traveling, reading, and finding geocaches.