SCOTT WATKINS: SHOUT-OUT!

The Harvey Scholl Prize in Piano was established in 2007 to recognize the artistry and dedicated teaching and service of Dr. Harvey Scholl, Professor of Piano at Jacksonville University in the 1960s and 1970s. Dr. Scholl was a beloved mentor and leader - and he worked hard to bring out the best in his students, always.

The Harvey Scholl Prize is intended to honor that student who has exhibited outstand progress during the academic year, and to honor that student's leadership qualities, and dedication to the art of playing the piano.

We don't get to define our awards during the JU College of Fine Arts Convocation like we used to do - but I wanted this year's recipient to know about Dr. Scholl and to know why he won his much-deserved award.

The 2012 Harvey Scholl Prize in Piano is awarded to Music Education Major, John Shannon, from Watertown, Connecticut.

Congratulations, John! You are going to inspire many young people with your love of music! Music's future couldn't be in more [...]

Mega shout-out to Music Education Senior, John Shannon, on his Senior Solo Recital. I was so impressed with the musicianship, the sound, the dynamic contours, everything! Congratulations on an outstanding accomplishment!

Dear readers,

I was so impressed Saturday night during my senior piano student's (Alfred Meneses) Senior Recital. He worked so hard to prepare, rehearse, and create his program and his performance was STUNNING. Such mature playing, and so musically sensitive.

I was really touched by his comments... Alfred, if you are reading this, I want you to know that the honor has been ALL MINE. What a privilege to watch you grow and mature - and to hear you play with conviction and profound emotional connection and musicianship.

Wishing you all the best for your bright future!

And thank you for four amazing years of music-making.

Your grateful teacher,
Dr. W.

Although this "Shout Out!" page is reserved for my students and their accomplishments, I can't resist giving a big Shout Out! to my colleagues in the Music Department of Jacksonville University Rob Tudor and Bobb Robinson who are starring in the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra's performance of "La Boheme." I am really inspired by them and their ease on stage, their wonderful singing, and the way they carry themselves at rehearsal. I'm lucky to be a waiter in the production (with JU alum Samuel Smid) and am really enjoying my chance to share the stage with my colleagues!

Congratulations to Katherine on her senior recital!