Music Professor Named Composer of the Year
Austin Jaquith, associate professor of music, has been named the Ohio MTA Composer of the Year.
Austin Jaquith, D.M.A., associate professor of music theory and composition, was selected as the Composer of the Year by the Ohio Music Teachers Association (MTA) on October 5.
Individuals entered the competition by submitting several of their original music compositions to the Ohio MTA for review. Jaquith’s submission included scores for clarinet, brass, piano, small ensemble and orchestra.
As the winner, Jaquith has been commissioned by the Ohio MTA to compose an original piece, which will be performed at the organization’s conference in Columbus, Ohio, in November. He will also be considered for the Distinguished Composer of the Year award as chosen by the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA).
Jaquith started his journey into music with the saxophone, prompting him to compose an original piece for the saxophone, titled “In the Hurricane’s Eye,” for his commissioned piece. He believes that this will make his piece unique and different.
"When people think of classical music, they think of Bach Beethoven, and Mozart, who wrote much of the standard literature for common instrument,” said Jaquith. “ I wanted to write a piece for an instrument whose repertoire wasn't quite as firmly established as say, the piano."
The piece will premiere at the conference on November 13 at 1 p.m. The conference includes professional performances, master classes and forums for attendees.
Chet Jenkins, adjunct music and worship instructor and saxophonist, and Stephen Estep, professional piano accompanist, will perform Jaquith’s original piece at the Ohio MTA Conference.
Located in southwest Ohio, Cedarville University is an accredited, Christ-centered, Baptist institution with an enrollment of 3,711 undergraduate, graduate, and online students in more than 100 areas of study. Founded in 1887, Cedarville is recognized nationally for its authentic Christian community, rigorous academic programs, strong graduation and retention rates, accredited professional and health science offerings, and leading student satisfaction ratings.