Music society continues guest artist invites

As part of an ever-evolving generation of music enthusiasts, the Dana School of Music is continuing its tradition of guest artist invitations, this time with pianist Avguste Antonov, a Bulgarian-born piano graduate of the University of Kansas.Having already performed around the world, Antonov is displaying his art in the Bliss Recital Hall and other local venues for students, faculty and listeners.

Antonov will perform various American works, including compositions by faculty and noted composers.

Dr. Robert Rollin, professor and director of the Dana Composers Ensemble, expressed his excitement about Antonov, who will be performing a composition by Rollin.

"He's an incredibly talented artist," Rollin said.

Rollin has been working specifically for the New Music Society, a collaborative effort at Youngstown State University of introducing a diverse and fresh musical scene to the campus.

"Youngstown is a little big city, not a big little city," Rollin said as he talked about the culture of Youngstown. "We want people to hear different types of music making an impact today."

So far, the Dana School Of Music has invited a multitude of guests to perform and teach, including pianist Carter Pann, who performed in October with the wind ensemble.

Rollin emphasized the role that guest artists play in the lives of students enrolled at Dana and enthusiasts alike.

"There's nothing better than hearing a lively performance," Rollin said. "They provide a new outlook on a strong tradition in music."

Rollin said the new music society would continue to provide more guest artists.

"We're currently talking with other artists for next year's festival," Rollin said as he talked about ideas for the Dana New Music Festival, a yearly event in the spring highlighting new music works.

Having already performed at Wednesday's Music at Noon event in the Butler Institute of American Art and in the evening at Bliss Recital Hall, Antonov will be performing again at the Dana School of Music Convocation this Friday.