Alissa Foerster Piano Recital Highlights

On April 4, 2025, Alissa Foerster performed her senior piano recital in Burckart Hall to an audience of family and friends. Music from all style periods and several collaborative works were featured, showcasing Alissa’s proficiency in solo and collaborative performing.

Ruth Bachorik, associate professor, commented, “Alissa has demonstrated excellent growth in her playing, and a determination to persevere. Her recital was a joy to observe – the pieces were charming and captivating, at a perfect level for her, and she showed joy in sharing her pieces.” Professor Janet Tschida wrote, “Alissa’s grit, determination, and strong work ethic over the past four years was clearly demonstrated in her performance. Great choice of diverse repertoire showcasing a variety of pianistic styles. Congrats to Alissa on a successful evening.”

Miss Foerster’s recital was prepared under the direction of Mrs. Ruth Brown and is given in partial fulfillment of the requirements for a bachelor of arts degree in Music with concentrations in Piano Pedagogy and Church Music. After graduation, Alissa plans to serve at Christian camps this summer in Louisiana and Hong Kong. This fall, she intends to teach private piano lessons, minister through music at her home church, and work for her dad’s business.

Two Ladies Gossiping

Khachaturian

With the descriptive title, “Two Ladies Gossiping,” Khachaturian prepares listeners for what they will hear before any notes are played. Accented notes and dissonant harmonies portray the harsh, biting nature of gossip, while a fast tempo imitates the hurried chatter of two ladies trying to relay their news quickly. Using these musical devices, Khachaturian immerses listeners into a conversation between two gossiping women.

Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah

Arr. Shelly Hamilton

This hymn captures the joy and anticipation of trusting in the Lord. Alissa shares, “I have always been comforted by the fact that God has a plan for my life and that He will not fail me as I trust in Him. As I trust Him with my future, these words have become a frequent prayer of mine as I begin each day.” Allie Morken joined Alissa for this energetic piano duo.

Five Pieces for Violin, Viola, and Piano:

I. Prelude IV. Waltz V. Polka

Shostakovich

Each of these pieces by Shostakovich is written with contrasting character. The “Prelude” begins the set of pieces with a beautiful, lyrical melody supported by rich harmonies. In the slightly livelier “Waltz,” Shostakovich creates a light work with a sense of circular motion. He ends the set of pieces boldly with an energetic “Polka.” Alissa enjoyed collaborating with her friends Gabriella and Lydia for this fun collection.

Doxology

Arr. Faye Lopez

The words to the Doxology were written in the late 1600s by Thomas Ken as the closing stanza to three different hymns sung at different times of the day. This final stanza has endured on its own as a hymn of praise to God.

Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow;

Praise Him, all creatures here below.

Praise Him above ye heav’nly host;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.