The “largest single source of scholarship revenue for ESU’s music program” saw an equally large turnout inside the Emporia State Memorial Union Saturday evening as hundreds of donors, friends and families gathered to take in the showcase of all areas of the department, including vocal and instrumental performances, dance and more.
Interim Music Department Chair Adrian Hartsough says the turnout for the annual Music Gala Benefit Concert was exciting for many reasons, namely the opportunity for their students to showcase the talents and skills they have developed as a direct result of the generosity of many in the room that evening.
Hartsough adds that he believes that in-person experience is just as important for their donors and supporters as it is for their students.
In addition to the variety of performances, audience members were also able to witness personal testimonials from many of the performers during the evening.
The gala not only showcased the talents of ESU students, but also recognized the centennial anniversary of Beach Music Hall and its namesake, former ESU Professor Frank Ambrose Beach. Beach came to Emporia State in 1909 and remained at the university until he died in 1935. While opened in 1926, the music hall would not bear Beach’s name until it was renamed in 1956.
In his honor, the evening saw the unveiling of a portrait of Beach done by ESU Art Professor Derek Wilinson.
Also honored Saturday evening was the latest inductee into the Beach Music Hall of Distinction, KVOE General Manager Ron Thomas. Thomas was notified of his induction earlier this year, a call he says came with shock, surprise and great humility.
Thomas has long been a dedicated supporter and friend of the ESU music department, using his role on the KVOE Morning Show to highlight upcoming events, accomplishments and milestones of the department for nearly the entirety of his time with the radio station. Speaking to his support of the department, Thomas says the talented group of individuals within it are always worth celebrating.
Fundraising totals from Saturday evening’s gala are currently pending.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News
