Grace Betry: A Journey of Musical Excellence
The mission of Maranatha is to develop leaders in the local church and the world to the praise of God’s glory. This mission is shaped every day not only by the university’s programs, but also by the graduates who continue to develop their God-given talents for His glory. Grace Betry, a 2019 Maranatha graduate, has continued her education in many ways. From the humble practice rooms of Maranatha to the largest stages of New York City, Grace is an example of patient dedication to a craft, and the payout for her has been incredible to witness.
This fall, Grace saw years of hard work and dedication pay off as she earned a Doctor of Musical Arts in Collaborative Piano from the Cleveland Institute of Music (CIM). Collaborative piano describes a higher level of accompanying which requires a “massive amount of repertoire and skill” (Betry). Grace’s practice and training within the degree have prepared her to sight read “entire sonatas or chamber works at performance level the first time” (Betry). Her preparation allows her to collaborate with various instruments as well as voice, varying her style of play so that the instrument may be heard and the countermelodies and harmonies are not compromised.
For her final recital within the degree program, Grace prepared a lecture recital (wherein performance is paired with scholarly commentary) entitled, “Musical Punctuation: Cadence and the Effects on Vocal and Instrumental Music.” The recital focused on “the traditional cadence that a language uses and how composers have to manipulate the cadence to fit rhythm and melody of vocal music” (Betry). Discussing Italian, French, and German composers, Grace argued that one can know a composer’s native language simply by their rhythm and harmony choices.
Grace is no stranger to the big stage. She has performed for many audiences, including Maranatha’s special Artist Series 2023. On January 16, Grace will perform at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall. Highlighting Ukrainian culture, Grace will perform Ukrainian art songs with soprano Polina Kornyushenko before Ukrainian officials, UN diplomats, and a large part of the Ukrainian community of New York City.
Photo: Grace and Polina perform at the Ukrainian Institute of America in New York City.
In addition to these accomplishments, Grace has accepted a position as a staff pianist at CIM beginning in January 2026. Performing guest masterclasses, studio classes, and voice lessons, she will play nearly 15 recitals a week. Most weekends will consist of 6-9 various student and guest recitals. This rigorous schedule will keep her busy as she supports students and faculty alike with her wonderful skills.
Grace works daily at developing her excellent, God-given abilities in piano collaboration and performance, and seeks to do her very best as she grows as a leader in her workplace. As her career continues to unfold and her name rises in the world of music, the glory reflects back to her Creator, demonstrating the mission and musical excellence cultivated at Maranatha Baptist University.
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