Raeanna Eastwood Piano Recital Highlights
This semester, Raeanna Eastwood performed her Senior Piano Recital in Burckart Hall. From beginning to end, her performances displayed an attention to detail and a dedication to the piano. The recital featured solo pieces from Raeanna as well as a piano duet, an instrumental quartet, and a choir piece.
“What a treat to attend Raeanna’s recital Friday night,” commented Mrs. Ruth Brown. “She played a wonderful array of styles and composers, running the gamut from Bach to Mozart to John Williams. Her performance reflected her hard work and the excellent teaching of June Brus. Congratulations, Raeanna!”
Eastwood gave her recital to fulfill the requirements of a Bachelor of Science Degree in Music Education. Following graduation, she hopes to teach music either through private lessons or at a school. Eventually, she intends to pursue a master’s degree.
Moment Musical, Op. 16, No. 3
Sergei Rachmaninoff
Though written by Rachmaninoff at only twenty-three years old, this piece shows a profound maturity and knowledge of grief. Written as a funeral march and lament, it features an opening theme that returns in the middle over a march in the left hand, creating a funeral dirge. The piece climaxes with an outcry of pain that descends into sobs before settling back into an internal heartache.
I’d Rather Have Jesus
George Beverly Shea (Arr. John Frederick Hudson)
Eastwood’s favorite sacred arrangement, this piece has always held a special place in her heart. Raeanna notes one line that stands out the most: “I’d rather have Jesus than men’s applause.” While musicians may crave validation from applause, Eastwood encourages herself and her listeners to desire Jesus more than anything this world can offer us.
English Suite No. 1 in A Major: IV. Sarabande
J. S. Bach
Written around 1713, many speculate that this is Bach’s oldest keyboard suite. A Baroque dance, the Sarabande movement emphasizes the second beat. It features a beautiful, singable melody and added embellishments in the repeat that provide listeners with a sense of tranquility.