Performances Scheduled for Oct. 29-Nov. 1 in Dover Theatre

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Mystery, comedy, and plenty of surprises take center stage as ���سԹ� Theatre presents “Clue,” a murder mystery based on the Parker Brothers board game.

Who did it? In what room? And with what weapon? The show is a fun and fast ride through an exciting dinner party at Boddy manor. Can you guess whodunit?

Performances are scheduled for Oct. 29-31 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 1 at 2:30 p.m. in Dover Theatre.

The show stars:

• Russell Frederick
• Cole Hazen
• Cash Jones
• Emarion McGorda
• Rachel Nieminen
• Rashaun Scott
• Grace Snyder
• Kevin Solera
• Carlie Styers
• Isa Van Sintemaartensdijk
• Avery Wehunt

Stage manager:

• Callie Keller

Assistant stage managers:

• Harley Buff
• Bella Driggers

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors, children, and non-GWU students, and free for GWU faculty, staff and students. Available .

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.

���سԹ� is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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Annual Tradition to Feature Founder Recognition Dinner, Holiday Music, Tree Lighting and Fellowship

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The sights and sounds of Christmas will once again fill the campus of ���سԹ� when the University hosts its annual Festival of Lights on Thursday, Dec. 3. The cherished holiday tradition brings together students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members for an evening of music, worship, fellowship and celebration as the ���سԹ� family marks the beginning of the Christmas season.

Presented by the ���سԹ� Department of Music, the Festival of Lights begins at 7:30 p.m. in Dover Theatre. Featuring the University’s choirs and orchestra, the program blends Scripture, congregational singing and seasonal music to celebrate the birth of Christ and the hope, peace, joy and love associated with Christmas.

“The Festival of Lights performance connects the full array of the ���سԹ� family,” said Dr. Aaron Rice, professor of music and chair of the Department of Music. “We gather to focus our hearts again on the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ through song, scripture, sights and sounds.”

Rice noted that this year’s program will highlight Celtic Christmas traditions through music inspired by the folk melodies and musical heritage of Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Audience members will also experience Advent hymn singing and selections by composers including Dan Forrest, John Rutter, Benjamin Britten, Michael McGlynn and Karen Marrolli.

Following the performance, guests will process along a luminaria-lined path to the circle in front of Tucker Student Center for the annual Christmas tree lighting. The evening will conclude with refreshments and fellowship.

Earlier in the evening, guests may attend A Dinner to Remember, which begins at 5:30 p.m. in Stewart and Hope Hall of Tucker Student Center. During the dinner, ���سԹ� will recognize several of the University’s founders whose vision and commitment helped shape the institution’s history and mission.

Tickets are available for the performance only, as well as dinner-and-performance packages. The first 50 students to reserve their tickets through Linda Lee in the Department of Music (llee10@gardner-webb.edu) will receive free admission to the performance.

Ticket options include:

• Performance only (general admission): $15
• Dinner and performance: $55
• Dinner and performance, table of 8: $420
• Dinner only: $40
• Dinner only, table of 8: $300
• GWU faculty and staff dinner and performance: $45
• Sponsor an individual student’s dinner and performance: $55
• Student dinner and performance: $25

Dinner tickets must be purchased by Nov. 29. Performance-only tickets will also be available for purchase on the day of the event. Guests may make an optional donation to Friends of Music during checkout.

Festival of Lights tickets may be purchased at .

Event Schedule

• 5:30 p.m. – A Dinner to Remember
  Stewart and Hope Hall, Tucker Student Center

• 7:30 p.m. – Festival of Lights
  Dover Theatre

• 9:00 p.m. – Luminaria Procession

• 9:05 p.m. – Christmas Tree Lighting
  Circle in front of Tucker Student Center

Immediately Following – Refreshments and Fellowship, Tucker Student Center

Get in the holiday spirit

Share photos of your decorations, Christmas lights, and GWU spirit home for the holidays using #GWUfestivalOfLights

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.

���سԹ� is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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Students from Across the Carolinas will Rehearse with Distinguished Conductors Before a Public Concert in Dover Theatre

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—���سԹ� will welcome student singers from across North and South Carolina for its 47th annual Choral Clinic on Oct. 19. The daylong event will culminate in a free public concert at 5:30 p.m. in Dover Theatre.

“���سԹ� Choirs are honored to host the Choral Clinic for its 47th year,” shared Dr. Joshua Cheney, associate professor of music and director of choral activities. “This event provides an opportunity for choristers in North and South Carolina to rehearse and perform together with regionally, nationally, and internationally acclaimed conductors who are industry leaders in choral education and artistry.

Cheney is expecting over 300 students to attend, and they will participate in one of two festival ensembles. The High School Festival Chorus will be directed by Dr. Alissa Rowe, director of choral studies at Louisiana State University. The Middle School Treble Festival Chorus will be led by Dr. Eric Johnson, coordinator of music education at ���سԹ�.

Throughout the day, participants will rehearse in ���سԹ�’s music facilities, interact with university faculty and students, and experience campus life before presenting the evening performance.

Jennifer Duckworth, the choir director East Burke High School in Connelly Springs, N.C., has brought her students to the clinic for eight years and usually has some parents who attend the evening performance. “The ���سԹ� Choral Clinic is a valuable experience for students because they get the opportunity to work with collegiate level choral directors and sing with other students who have a passion for choral music,” she observed. “Not only are these students learning how to improve their vocal technique and music reading skills, but they are also learning to collaborate and communicate through music. The ���سԹ� Choral Clinic inspires students to learn more difficult music and creates excitement about doing a variety of choral music.”

The High School Festival Chorus will perform “Dies Irae” by Michael John Trotta, “I Dream a World” by Rosephanye Powell, “Sing Out, My Soul” by Marques L.A. Garrett and “The Music of Stillness” by Elaine Hagenberg.

The Middle School Treble Festival Chorus repertoire includes “Here Comes the Sun,” arranged by the Podd Brothers; “Quiet Sea” by Melissa Malvar-Keylock and Jill Friederdorf; “Kookaburra” by Melissa Malvar-Keylock and Jill Friederdorf; and “Shout for Joy” by Sally Albrecht and Jay Althouse.

Cheney noted that the clinic has become a longstanding tradition that enriches students and music educators throughout the region. In addition to the musical experience, Cheney values the opportunity to connect with fellow educators and inspire future members of the ���سԹ� choral program.

He added, “Personally, I look forward to this event every year because I am honored to provide this opportunity for my colleagues and their students in k-12 education, to be in community with them, to share in the stage with them, and to get to know future students and members of ���سԹ� Choirs. It really is a great day!”

The concert is free and open to the public and will begin at 5:30 p.m. in Dover Theatre on the ���سԹ� campus.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.

���سԹ� is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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Students Gain Memorable Musical Experience While Sharing Their Talents on Nov. 13; Community Members Encouraged to Purchase Biltmore Tickets Early to Attend

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—For many visitors, Christmas at Biltmore in Asheville, N.C., is a treasured holiday tradition filled with sparkling lights, towering trees and seasonal music. This November, a group of ���سԹ� students will become part of that experience, lending their voices to the festive atmosphere inside America’s largest home.

Members of ���سԹ�’s Gardner Singers and Webb Chorale have been selected to perform at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, N.C., on Nov. 13 after successfully completing Biltmore’s audition process. The opportunity offers students a chance to perform for guests during one of the estate’s busiest and most celebrated seasons.

The University Chorales include Gardner Singers, directed by Dr. Aaron Rice, professor of music and chair of the music department, and Webb Chorale, directed by Dr. Eric Johnson, assistant professor of music education. These non-audition ensembles are open to students of any major at ���سԹ� and regularly perform on campus and events in the local area.

Rice noted that the invitation reflects both the quality of the University’s vocal ensembles and a commitment to creating meaningful experiences for students beyond the classroom. Rice helped lead a performance tour of France in 2024, and the department is currently raising funds for a 2027 performance trip to New Orleans. While those opportunities take students far from home, the Biltmore opportunity offers a unique chance to engage with one of North Carolina’s most iconic destinations.

“For us as an institution in the foothills, it makes total sense for us to connect with our region,” he observed. “Biltmore is literally in our backyard and intrinsically part of the North Carolina culture, and a really exciting opportunity. Many of our students have never been and even the ones who have been, even fewer have been at Christmas.”

The ensembles will perform in the house’s Winter Garden, where guests will encounter the choirs as they begin touring the historic home. Gardner Singers will perform beginning at 1:45 p.m., followed by Webb Chorale from approximately 2:15 to 2:45 p.m.

Among the students participating are brothers, Corwin and Thomas Stanley, who are members of the Gardner Singers. Corwin, an Ignite Scholar, is a senior music and worship major and his brother is a sophomore. “I am so grateful for everyone who has invested in this opportunity for us and our friends in Gardner Singers to go share our talents at the Biltmore House,” Corwin shared.

Before they sing, students will have an opportunity to tour the estate and enjoy lunch on site. Rice observed that shared experiences, such as this trip and other performances, mission trips and service opportunities, often become some of the most meaningful parts of a student’s college experience, creating memories and connections that endure for years.

Community members, alumni and friends who would like to attend the performances are encouraged to purchase admission tickets directly through Biltmore as soon as possible. Guests should select house entry times that align with the performances, particularly the 1:45 p.m., 2 p.m. or 2:15 p.m. entry windows, as availability may be limited during the Christmas season.

Tickets may be purchased through Biltmore at or by calling 800-411-3812.

The trip is being made possible through the generosity of donors and supporters of ���سԹ�’s music programs. Additional contributions are still being accepted to help offset costs associated with the experience. Community members who would like to support this and other performance opportunities may make a gift through ���سԹ�’s online giving portal.

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Endowment Honors Cleveland County Couple’s Longtime Love of Music, Education, and Service

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Music was woven into everyday life in the home of Robert and Evelyn Cabaniss of Cleveland County, N.C. The family listened to a wide variety and sometimes sang along. To honor their parents’ love for music, support for education and service to the community, the couple’s children—Mark Cabaniss, Garry Cabaniss, and Michele Cabaniss Peraldo—recently endowed the Robert and Evelyn Cabaniss Music Scholarship at ���سԹ�.

Reflecting on the family’s decision, Michele said, “Our family is deeply honored to support the music department at ���سԹ� through this endowment in memory of our parents. Music was a meaningful part of their lives, and we hope this gift will encourage and inspire students for generations to come while honoring the values they cherished.”

While considering the various ways they could memorialize their parents, “a scholarship seemed like the perfect choice,” noted Mark, an award-winning music composer and publisher. “Since our parents spent the better part of their lives in Cleveland County and were supporters of ���سԹ�—and my brother is a ���سԹ� graduate—establishing the scholarship at ���سԹ� was a natural and fitting way to celebrate their legacy.”

During a recent visit to campus, Mark was impressed by what he saw in the Department of Music. “���سԹ� understands that music education is about much more than teaching notes and rhythms,” he stated. “���سԹ� combines academic excellence with a strong sense of purpose and faith. It is a place where students are encouraged to develop their talents while also growing as people of character. Music educators have an extraordinary opportunity to shape young lives through the transforming power of music, and ���سԹ� is preparing students to do exactly that. Investing in future music educators creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond any single classroom.”

Mark’s passion for music was inspired and nurtured by his parents. “My father sang in the Shelby (N.C.) First Baptist Church choir for about 50 years; he grew up at Zion Baptist Church in greater Shelby and at the age of 5, sang his first solo in that church standing on a pew,” he shared. “My mother sang around the house and had a beautiful voice and did a stint of taking piano lessons as an adult.”

Mark said his mother often recalled telling a friend, respected Shelby piano teacher Jean Mauney, that she hoped her child would one day study music. When he was 8 years old, his mother asked if he would like to take piano lessons.

“That simple conversation changed the course of my life,” Mark said. “I fell in love with the process of making music and naturally gravitated toward chorus, band, and drama classes and ensembles throughout junior high and high school. Eventually, that passion led me to earn a degree in music education with a concentration in trumpet.”

The encouragement provided by his parents and Cleveland County teachers helped launch him into a career that has influenced musicians and music educators around the world. Mark serves as president and CEO of Jubilate Music Group and has enjoyed success as an ASCAP composer and arranger. He is also an accomplished author, broadcaster, and educator. His published works have been performed nationally and abroad, and his concert musical “Triumph of Faith” (co-written with Mark Blankenship) received its world premiere at Carnegie Hall. A multiple recipient of ASCAP’s Popular Music Award, Mark is also a Dove Award- and Angel Award-winning producer. 

“My parents believed deeply in the value of education, as does the larger Cabaniss (and Evelyn Woodall) family,” Mark said. “Our parents encouraged us to pursue higher education and supported us every step of the way, financially and otherwise. Looking back, I realize how much of my professional journey—from teaching to publishing to writing books—rests on the foundation they helped create. They encouraged discipline, curiosity, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence.”

Whether through professional leadership, church involvement, volunteer service, or caring for their family, Robert and Evelyn invested in friends, neighbors, church members, and countless others throughout the community. Their legacy was not defined by a single accomplishment, but by decades of faithful service.

“My father, Robert G. Cabaniss, was a respected business executive and civic leader who was deeply involved in the Lions Club, earning the Melvin Jones Fellowship, the organization’s highest honor,” Mark noted. “My mother, Evelyn Cabaniss, devoted more than forty years to caring for children in the First Baptist Shelby nursery in addition to being involved in other volunteer service activities. She quietly touched countless lives through her kindness, patience, and faithful service.”

The scholarship will support aspiring music educators who will, in turn, influence future generations through their own classrooms and communities. For the Cabaniss children, the opportunity to extend their parents’ influence far into the future is the greatest value of the gift.

“That may be the most meaningful aspect of all,” he said. “A scholarship like this becomes a living memorial. Long after my siblings and I are gone, students will continue benefiting from the values my parents embodied. The scholarship doesn’t merely remember Robert and Evelyn Cabaniss; it extends their influence into the future. That thought brings me tremendous joy and peace.”

View the Robert and Evelyn Cabaniss Music Scholarship on

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Jared and Lindsay Bradshaw will Teach Masterclasses and Present a Public Concert on Feb. 12

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The ���سԹ� Department of Music will host Broadway performers, Jared and Lindsay Northern Bradshaw, on Feb. 12. During the day, they will share their expertise with students. At 7 p.m. in Dover Chapel, the couple will present a concert that is open to the public.

Lindsay appeared on Broadway in Wicked (Ensemble/Understudy for Glinda) for 13 years straight, and in the National Tour of The Sound of Music (Maria). Jared is best known for his eight-year run in the Tony Award-winning Broadway production of Jersey Boys. He has the distinction of playing 10 of the 11 roles in the show. They travel all over the United States conducting workshops and performing as the Broadway Bradshaws.

Their sessions for students at ���سԹ� include:

• Vocal masterclass at 9:25 a.m. in Dover Chapel.

• Acting masterclass at 10:25 a.m. in Millennium Playhouse. 

• Musical theater coaching at 1:15 p.m. in Millennium Playhouse.

• Concert at 7 p.m., open to the public, Dover Chapel.

Lindsay brings extensive television experience, with co-star and guest star appearances on New Amsterdam, The Americans, The Last O.G, Tales of the City, Mr. Robot, and CSI Miami. She has also appeared in several TV commercials in the United States and abroad. She is currently performing in Finding Nemo, the Big, Blue and Beyond, where she plays either Peach, Dory or Pearl at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. She and Jared have a 12-year-old daughter, Georgia. 

In addition to the Jersey Boys, Jared was an understudy for Christian Borle as Wily Wonka in the original Broadway cast of Charlie in the Chocolate factory and appeared as Wonka on the Tony Awards on CBS. Previously, Jared starred in the Off-Broadway hit, Forbidden Broadway. A BFA Musical Theatre graduate of Shorter College in Rome, Ga., Jared started his professional career performing for Disney Cruise Line and in regional theatres across the U.S. Currently, Jared performs daily at Walt Disney World playing four roles in Finding Nemo: The Big Blue and Beyond at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and as a principle actor at Hollywood Studios in Disney VILLIANS: Unfairly ever after. His Bing Crosby tribute show also appeared weekly at Disney Springs this holiday season.

For more information about the masterclasses or concert, contact Linda Lee at 704-406-4448.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.

���سԹ� is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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Alumni Join Masterclasses, Recitals, and Concert for the Public to Honor the Associate Professor who Helps Students Become More on Stage and Beyond

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—���سԹ� Associate Professor Tim Hudson has played with major orchestras, brass ensembles and renowned music artists on stages all over the world. Through his mentorship and instruction, GWU students have developed their talents to become outstanding composers, teachers and performers. They have played on Broadway, at the Met, and with top-tier orchestras, like the Houston Symphony.

In celebration of his 20th year at ���سԹ�, 10 of his former students, all GWU alumni, are returning to the University for Tim Hudson Day on Thursday, Jan. 15. Musicians are invited to attend the day of masterclasses, rehearsals, and recitals. The program begins at 9 a.m. with light refreshments and fellowship. Then, at 7 p.m., the public is invited to a recital in Dover Chapel.

Hudson is a Yamaha Performing Artist, Summit Recording Artist, founding member of Carolina Brass and in 2015, joined The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass. He remains deeply devoted to guiding Gardner‑Webb students, even as he sustains an active and demanding performance career. “Prof. Hudson’s dedication to his students over the past two decades has shaped not only skilled musicians but thoughtful artists who carry his lessons with them in all they do,” praised Dr. Aaron Rice, associate professor and chair of the ���سԹ� Department of Music. “We’re grateful for his commitment to excellence and for the lasting impact he continues to make in our musical community.”

Hudson has played with the Charleston Symphony since 2017. In the past, he performed with professional orchestras in the U.S. and abroad under world class conductors, including Lorin Maazel, Yoel Levi, Leonard Slatkin, Grant Llewellyn, and others. He has held the principal trumpet position with the Knoxville Symphony (Tenn.), Chamber Orchestra of Northern New York, New England Philharmonic, Symphony Orchestra of the State of Mexico, Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle, and the N.C. Opera and Ballet Orchestras. Hudson is a graduate of Indiana University, New England Conservatory of Music, and UNC-Greensboro.

Over the past 30 years, Hudson has appeared with pop/jazz artists such as Ray Charles, The Temptations, Manhattan Transfer, Neil Sedaka, Tony Bennett, Andrea Bocelli, Branford Marsalis, Mannheim Steamroller, Kenny Rogers, Mike Cross, Bobby Vinton, The Moody Blues, Chuck Mangione, Marvin Hamlisch, Josh Groban, Idina Menzel, Doc Severinsen and Dizzy Gillespie.

GWU Alumni Trumpeters and Ensemble Members

Joining Hudson for his special day are GWU alumni, including members of the GWU Alumni Trumpet Ensemble, a group that were in the finals of The National Trumpet Competition for many years. They are:

• Dr. Robbie Collins, who has a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) from the University of Kentucky and teaches trumpet, brass chamber music, and music theory at North Greenville University. Collins frequently serves as guest principal trumpet with the South Carolina Philharmonic and has appeared with ensembles, including the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra, North Carolina Baroque Orchestra, Lexington Philharmonic, Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, Mantrazos Philharmonic (Greece), and the Cincinnati Symphony and Opera herald trumpet ensembles.
• Garrett Chitwood, an educator with Cleveland County schools, currently teaching at Burns Middle School. He is a freelance professional trumpet player. 
• Brandon Taylor, director of bands at East Gaston High School in Mount Holly, N.C., currently in his 10th year of teaching. East Gaston ensembles have consistently earned high ratings and have maintained superior ratings for over five consecutive years at South Central District Bandmasters Association (SCDBA) Music Performance Adjudication. Under Taylor’s leadership, the marching band has earned multiple Grand Champion titles and First Place Caption Awards at North Carolina Bandmasters Association Marching Band Competitions. He was named East Gaston High School Teacher of the Year for 2023–2024 and was also recognized as the school’s STAR Teacher during that same year.
• Christina Hagle, a recording artist for Resurrection Records.  
• Dr. Michael Brotherton, who has a DMA from Northern Colorado University and is based in Colorado. He is teaching at Furman University for the 2026 Spring Semester. Brotherton previously won the solo division, graduate school level, of the National Trumpet Competition, and is principal trumpet of the Longmont Symphony Orchestra. He has also performed with Colorado Bach Ensemble, Opera Colorado, Boulder Symphony, Boulder Philharmonic, Boulder Opera, Fort Collins Symphony and others.
• Anthony Lacivita, a freelance trumpet performer and educator based in Savannah, Ga. He earned his Master of Music degree in trumpet performance from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. 
• Jon McClay has a Master of Music from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, and is a professional player.
• Adam Moxley-White, who has a Master of Music, teaches applied brass, and electronic music at Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington, N.C. In 2023, Moxley-White co-founded the Jasmine Duo, that features him on vocals and trumpet with Jake Beamer on the piano. They perform regularly around Wilmington at venues such as: The Blind Elephant, Luna Caffè, Coco Pipa and Ports of Call Bistro.
• Kevin Clary, director of bands at Kings Mountain Middle School, and a highly sought-after published composer and arranger, as well as trumpeter with the Black Coffee Quartet. His concert band works are published through Alfred Music and 8th Note Publications, and he has been commissioned to write new concert band music for ensembles ranging from fifth-grade beginners to collegiate wind ensembles.
• Ben Dawkins has spent the last nine years in the active-duty Army Bands. Promoted to the rank staff sergeant, he is stationed at Fort Jackson with the 282D Army Band, where he serves as squad leader, training Noncommissioned Officer in Charge, and bugler for the 282D Band.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.

���سԹ� is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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Event Features World Premiere of Commissioned Work and Piano Solo by Freshman Arturo Ayla

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The ���سԹ� Orchestra concert on Nov. 24 is dedicated to 1997 alumnus Peter Strickland, director of the Crest High School Chamber Orchestra. For over two decades, the two orchestras have collaborated on 30 programs of classical and contemporary works. Strickland is retiring in May 2026 from Cleveland County Schools.

A special feature of the concert will be the world premiere of a commissioned work in Strickland’s honor. Composed by award-winning musician, R. Christopher Teichler, the piece is called “Harmina Cordium,” “The Harmony of Hearts.” The program begins at 7 p.m. in Dover Theatre. Tickets are $15 for general admission, and free for all students, GWU faculty, and staff.

Another highlight of the evening is piano soloist, Arturo Ayla, a ���سԹ� freshman who is currently studying piano with Dr. Bruce Moser. He has taken piano lessons for 10 years and organ lessons for three. Ayla participated in the North Carolina Federation of Music Clubs (NCFMC) Music Festival from 2018-2025 and the NCFMC Concerto Competition from 2020-2024.

In 2024, Ayla participated in the International Piano Professionals Association (IPPA) Concerto Piano Competition and won a gold medal in the national round. He also plays organ for various churches in the Charlotte area. He is currently studying organ performance with Dr. Gianfranco Deluca. Ayla is the pianist with the GWU Orchestra, and sings in the Gardner Singers.

To honor Strickland’s support of the GWU orchestra program, Director of Orchestral Activities and Professor of Music Dr. Patricia Sparti contacted some of his students to send in photos and comments to include in a memory book and video. “They all said about the same thing that Mr. Strickland was the best teacher they have ever had, they loved every minute of orchestra,” Sparti acknowledged. “They said that he taught them great music, how to read music and how to play, but even more importantly taught them to be good people, kind and compassionate people and taught them how to treat others. He is one of our most distinguished Alumni—class of 1997!”

Sparti continued, “For me, Mr. Strickland has always been the best of the best, both as a person and as a musician and educator. I love him and his family immensely. There are no amount of words I could say, so I will say he is a huge blessing from God, and I could have had no greater collaborator and friend by my side. He has sent us more GWU music students over the years than any other educator out there.”

Strickland has been an educator in the Cleveland County School System since graduating from ���سԹ�. He began his career as the founding director of the Burns and Crest Middle School Orchestra programs and later established the Crest High Orchestra program in 1999, followed by the Electronic Music/Recording program in 2006. In 2024, Strickland was appointed as the manager of the newly opened Crest High School Auditorium, overseeing daily operations, event coordination, and the management of the facility.

Crest students have participated in events such as All-County, Western Regional, and All-State Orchestra, with many alumni pursuing careers in music education, performance, composition, and production. The Crest Chamber Orchestra has also contributed to the local community, performing at notable events such as the opening of the Vietnam Memorial Moving Wall Exhibition and collaborating with the GWU Orchestra, the Rutherford Symphony, the Carolina Brass, as well as acclaimed fiddlers Mark and Maggie O’Connor.

Strickland graduated from ���سԹ� with degrees in music education and composition. He remains an active composer and arranger. In 2010, he arranged Earl Scruggs’ bluegrass classic, “Flint Hill Special,” for bluegrass band and orchestra as part of the Smithsonian’s American Roots concert series. Additionally, he has served as the clinician and conductor for all-county orchestra events across the state.

He has been recognized for his excellence in teaching, receiving the Hoyt & Anne Dover Bailey Teaching Excellence Award three times, and achieved certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards in 2007, renewed in 2017. He was selected as N.C. Western Regional Orchestra Teacher of the Year in 2017, and Crest High School Teacher of the Year in 2025.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.

���سԹ� is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Learn more at .

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Four Students Selected to Participate in 85-Member Ensemble at N.C. Music Educators Conference

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Four music majors from ���سԹ� joined 85 students from across North Carolina chosen to participate in the second biennial North Carolina Intercollegiate Band (NCIB). The group performed at the 2025 North Carolina Music Educators Association (NCMEA) State Conference on Nov. 9-10 in Winston-Salem, N.C.

The students rehearsed with guest conductor, Dr. Nicholas Enrico Williams, director of Bands at the University of Georgia. They presented a concert featuring the music of Leonard Bernstein, Bruce Broughton, Florence Price, David Maslanka, and Ericka Svanoe.

Director of ���سԹ� Bands Dr. Sarah Fabian nominated the students to apply and audition for the honor. “These students stand out as exceptional musicians and dedicated members of our ensembles,” Fabian praised. “Chosen from many nominations and through outstanding auditions, they’ve earned their place among this distinguished group. Their talent, passion, and commitment to excellence make them shining examples of what it means to be both remarkable performers and inspiring leaders.”

���سԹ�’s National Association for Music Education (NAfME) Chapter was also recognized as a NCMEA Collegiate Chapter of Excellence. This award recognizes the chapter for their contributions to NAfME Collegiate, their college or university, and/or their community. Awards are based on individual chapter accomplishments rather than on competition between chapters.

The ���سԹ� band students honored were:

• Junior Boakye, of Kings Mountain, N.C., trumpet, senior music education major and third-year band member.
• Anakin Booth, of Charlotte, N.C., tenor sax, freshman music education major and first-year band member.
• David Dixon, of Goose Creek, S.C., trumpet, sophomore music education major and second-year band member.
• Isaiah Vargas, of Forest City, N.C., trombone, freshman double major in music education and composition, fifth-year band member.

A trumpeter for 10 years, Boakye was also selected for the first NCIB in 2023. He is grateful to be chosen for the second time to play in the high-level ensemble and connect with some of the musicians he met before. “The audition process consisted of hours of me practicing and listening to the excerpts,” he described. “Then, when I was ready, I went around all of campus to find the best recording space.”

Boakye was honored and excited to represent ���سԹ� and play in an ensemble filled with highly-skilled performers. “This experience helped me grow as a musician and inspired me to keep pushing to get better so I can be involved in more opportunities like these, and so that I am well equipped to teach with the knowledge and experience I have gained from these opportunities,” he observed.

Vargas, who has played with ���سԹ� ensembles as a community member for five years, started playing trombone six years ago. Although the NCIB audition was intimidating, he stayed calm and thought of his video as just another rehearsal. “I am incredibly excited and honored to have been selected to perform with such a prestigious ensemble,” he stated. “The experience was amazing—being around other talented collegiate musicians and being able to experience the joy of making music with them was awesome. It really hit home when the guest clinician told us to really take it all in, as there will never be a point where the same musicians will be under the same roof for this kind of ensemble again. I spent a lot of time getting to know the people around me and sharing stories about our experiences with music.”

The first instrument Vargas learned to play was the euphonium. He wanted to try trombone to increase his versatility and knowledge of brass instruments. “Picking up trombone has led me to several opportunities unique to trombone players, such as solos, being in jazz band, and even performing in a trombone octet for my last year in marching drum corps,” he explained. “I love the unique tone and color of the trombone, and how flexible it can be in any ensemble, be it orchestral, marching band, or jazz oriented.”

Booth has played tenor saxophone for seven years and chose the instrument because he wanted to play jazz. Besides being thankful to perform with the elite group, Booth appreciated the chance to meet other musicians and future educators. “I liked playing and making music with other people that have the same mindset about music as I do,” he added. “The Honor Band was amazing. I learned a lot and was able to meet some very influential people during this opportunity.”

Dixon also expressed his excitement about being chosen to participate and to meet and perform with other dedicated musicians. At the conference, he participated in a jam session with trumpeter Justin Ray, who had previously played with five-time Grammy-winner Michael Bublé. “It was an experience unlike any other,” Dixon asserted. “The honor band was a blast to be a part of, and I feel pure wonder about the entire event.”

A trumpet player for 13 years, Dixon picked up the instrument because his grandfather used to play. “I like the virtuosic nature of the trumpet,” he described. “When I am in the band, I feel free when we get to play wonderful melodies or beautiful harmonies.”

���سԹ� is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Learn more at .

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Honor the Legacy of John R. Dover Sr., and Celebrate the Season with Food, Fellowship, Music and Lights

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Celebrate the Christmas season with ���سԹ� at an evening of dining, fellowship, and yuletide warmth. The Festival of Lights Dinner on Dec. 4 complements the annual beloved presentation of holiday music and lights, a campus tradition started by the Department of Music in 1985.

“The Festival of Lights Dinner and Performance is one of the most meaningful evenings of the year at ���سԹ�,” stated Interim Vice President of Advancement Karen Bruce. “It’s a time when we come together as a community to celebrate the joy of the season, honor those who laid the foundation for our University, and reflect on the light we’re called to share with the world. We’re excited to welcome alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends for a night of inspiration, music, and fellowship.”

Tickets may be purchased for the dinner only or the dinner and the performance.

The Festival of Lights Dinner begins at 5:30 p.m. in Stewart and Hope halls of Tucker Student Center. Guests will enjoy an elegant seasonal dinner that brings together friends, alumni, and community partners for a night of warmth and gratitude. During the evening, John R. Dover Sr., whose legacy continues to inspire us, will be honored. 

The 40th Annual Festival of Lights performance begins at 7:30 p.m. in Dover Theatre. Experience the cherished ���سԹ� tradition that has captured the spirit of Christmas for four decades. Talented GWU students and faculty will present powerful performances of Christmas classics, sacred choral works, and holiday favorites. The audience will be invited to join in the singing of familiar carols.

At 9 p.m., the audience will follow the softly lit luminaria path to the circle in front of Tucker Student Center. Then at 9:05, everyone will participate in the lighting of the campus Christmas tree, a symbol of hope, unity, and the light of Christ shared throughout our community.

Immediately following, guests will be invited inside Tucker Student Center for refreshments. Gather and fellowship with friends to close out the memorable night of celebration.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.

���سԹ� is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Learn more at .

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