The University of Rhode Island Department of Music held its third convocation of the year this past Thursday, Sept. 21, as part of their weekly concert convocation series. The luxury of attending the convocation proved to be an enjoyable experience of watching all the talented young performers that URI has to offer.
The convocation performers included; Moriah Mansfield (singer), Bryan Kuchar (singer), Gayane Darakyan (piano), Christine Wong (piano), Ian Wykes (tuba and sousaphone), Jason Taylor (guitar), Ryan Tremblay (guitar), Nicholas Casey (trombone), Nicholas Motron (drums) and James Himmelmann (piano).
All of the students practice once a week through and with their teachers, though they are encouraged to practice on their own as well. Most of the students performing at last week’s convocation were sophomores. As a sophomore music or vocal performance major, you are required to perform in convocation at some point throughout the year. Occasionally a freshman would perform if they are ready for it, but it’s not as likely. These convocations are also a part of the curriculum for the students who perform.
There are plenty of other events coming up for the URI Department of Music, including a Convocation performance every Thursday at 12:30 p.m. in the Concert Hall of the Fine Arts Center. The convocations are completely free to attend. There are additional events being hosted by the Department of Music, including a Guest Artist Voice Recital at 8 p.m. on October 13. Tickets to these additional events can be purchased online or at the box office in the Fine Arts Center up to one hour before the performance. All major credit cards are accepted, as well as cash or check. General admission tickets are $12, student and senior (60 and older) tickets are $7. All children aged 12 and under get in for free.