Music students at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point were part of a professional music recording thanks to their professor receiving a Faculty Research/Creative Development Grant.
John Lynch, director of bands and a professor of music at UW-Stevens Point, was at the helm of a full-length recording of the symphonic wind ensemble titled “Endless Horizons”. The album will include six total pieces, and features students in the top concert band at UW-Stevens Point, along with faculty soloist Brent Turney, director of jazz studies and professor of trumpet.
Lynch was inspired to record an album to feature the talents of UWSP musicians and share them on a national scale, in addition to providing an important professional experience for students preparing for careers in music.
“I’ve spearheaded seven professional recording projects over the course of my career and each time it’s been a life changing experience for all those involved,” said Lynch.
The project was recorded for 18 hours over three days in February and made possible with help from Los Angeles based recording engineer Christian Amonson (former engineer for the United States Marine Band), and producer Brad Genevro.
For the students involved, the experience provided a glimpse into a new professional outcome they may not have otherwise considered.
“This experience helped give us perspective on what we may want to do when we graduate,” said music education major Aderyn Seefeldt. “Recording ensembles exist, and this experience opened the door for students wanting to continue. As a student participant, this was an incredible opportunity that most musicians never get the chance to do, and it pushed us in new and interesting ways. Having this album released would also mean putting our school name out there to a whole new demographic of people.”
“It was a joy to collaborate with the students, my colleague Brent and our guest artists to create something lasting and meaningful to put out into the world,” said Lynch. “The process, from the first rehearsal until “it’s a wrap,” was filled with growth for our students, and it is an experience we will always remember.”
“Endless Horizons” is planned to be released on all streaming platforms later this year.