KENNESAW, Ga. | Feb 2, 2021

Enjoy a variety of musical performances in free, virtual concert

Students and faculty at Kennesaw State University’s School of Music will present the Collage Concert on Saturday, February 6 at 8 p.m. Led by interim director Leslie J. Blackwell, the School of Music will present this signature production for the 15th year in a row to raise funds for student scholarships.  

Since 2007, both students and faculty members have graced the stage each year to celebrate music and raise money to support student scholarships. Highlights of the concert usually include the Chamber Singers, Percussion Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, and Wind Ensemble. A kaleidoscope of sights and sounds, the event has become an annual tradition for many patrons.

But this is not a typical year.

The Collage Concert will still delight patrons with a wide range of musical selections—including traditional favorites Bach, Handel and Mendelssohn and recent works from alumnus Andrew Creech, Herbie Hancock, and faculty member Trey Wright—but this time, patrons will watch from home instead of sitting in majestic Morgan Hall.

This year’s free performance may be streamed live with only a simple reservation. However, as the Collage Concert is the School of Music’s largest fundraiser for student scholarships, the situation presents both a dilemma and an opportunity.

Proceeds from revenue generated by Collage have benefited students greatly in the past, but this year, there will be no ticket revenue, as the concert is free. Blackwell says, “Normally, we have ticket revenue to consider as part of our proceeds to support students. However, there are no ticket revenues this year, so I would merely ask patrons to consider contributing the cost of what they would normally pay to attend the concert in person. If everyone did that, it would be amazing.”

The need of students is great, particularly this year. It is difficult to underestimate the need. Some students lost part-time jobs as restaurants were closed, and others kept their jobs, but saw their income plummet during the shutdown. Others had parents lose jobs and simply could not afford books or tuition. Fundraising events like Collage Concert help fill in the gap and make a difference in a student’s life.

Kelly Smith, director of development for the College of the Arts, says that KSU students inspire her. “Most of our students are not students who come from wealth and means. They are students who know the value of work and what it’s going to take for them to be what they want to be after they graduate. They inspire me every day with their tenacity and their drive,” she says.

In this difficult year, as you enjoy the many offerings of the Collage Concert, please consider donating to the School of Music to benefit student scholarships. Your donation may make the difference of music students being able to complete their last semester in school or begin their KSU journey. Blackwell adds, “We are able to assist our students with the help of our donors and concertgoers. This year, our goal is to raise at least $10,000 in this one evening to support student scholarships.”

Make your reservation to watch the virtual 15th Annual Collage Concert on Saturday, Feb. 6 at 8 p.m.

--Kathie Beckett