ESU holds piano concert and teaching workshop

An expert in training pianists to teach will give a concert and workshop this weekend at ESU.

Rick Andrews, Director of Keyboard Activities at Augustana College in Sioux Falls, S.D., will give a performance tonight and Saturday night, as well as conduct a day of workshops for area piano teachers.

“He’s helping ESU and the community three different ways,” said Martin Cuellar, ESU assistant professor of piano. “He’s going to perform for the public, work with students and piano teachers, and consult the university on how to start a piano preparatory program.”

According to Cuellar, the ESU music department is planning to start a program which will offer piano lessons aimed at the general community. The lessons will be taught by ESU students interested in learning to teach music one-on-one.

“People will be able to come in and take lessons on the instrument and also learn about rhythm, musicianship and theory. It will provide an important service our region and also help train the next generation of piano teachers.”

Andrews will give a lecture recital on Debussy’s Preludes tonight at 7:30 in Heath Recital Hall. His Saturday night concert will include the works of Schubert, Chopin, Beethoven and Grieg, and will also take place at 7:30 in Heath Recital Hall.

Andrews is an award-winning pianist who has performed extensively throughout the South and Midwest. He has taught at Georgia College, Arkansas College and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, as well as the Interlochen National Music Camp.

In addition to his performances and college teaching duties, Andrews directs the Augustana Piano Preparatory Program.

Last Updated July 2, 2007>