Perseverance to performance: UAA Music’s Symphony of Sounds returns to the in-person stage

On Saturday, April 2, the UAA Department of Music presented the 26th annual Symphony of Sounds concert, an extravaganza of musical entertainment in a nonstop collage format. College of Arts and Sciences students performed a wide range of musical styles in the Fine Arts Building Recital Hall for one of the first major face-to-face showcases open to the public for the musicians since the pandemic began.

“The past two years have been particularly challenging for music students as we lost a vital component of our program — rehearsing together and performing in front of live audiences,” said Dr. Grant Cochran, Department of Music chair. “Students and faculty did their best to be engaged in online classes and rehearsals during the pandemic, but it was difficult for all of us. We missed the in-person learning environment along with the camaraderie and energy of making music in the same place.”

The Symphony of Sounds tradition launched over two decades ago to highlight talent in the entire music department. The event consists of short program pieces drawing from a wide spectrum of genres and musical periods, and included large ensembles, chamber groups, alumni participants and auditioned solo performers. Because of the variety, breadth and excellence of performances, it is a musical highlight every year in Anchorage.

This year’s performance featured works from the early 1550s to the 21st century, from classical and musical theater to pop and jazz. With over 60 performers in the concert — students, faculty and alumni — Saturday's concert was recognized as one of the most successful to date.

“There was a genuine sense of joy [and relief] that we were back together and able to share our love of music with an appreciative audience,” said Cochran.

The concert also serves as one of the Department of Music’s primary annual fundraising events. All the proceeds from the concert go directly to the UAA Excellence in Music Endowment, which supports scholarships and all areas of music education, performance and operations. Since its inception, Symphony of Sounds proceeds and donations have distributed more than $50,000 in scholarship awards to UAA music majors.

“The music was wonderful to hear and the joy on students' faces as they finished their performances was a marvelous sight, said Dr. Jenny McNulty, College of Arts and Sciences dean. “The students and faculty put together a fantastic performance for the UAA and Anchorage community. A big thank you to our audience who supported students with enthusiastic applause as well as generous contributions to scholarships.”