Media Release

Growing the Instrumental Music Department Lee University worked hard the past several years to expand the Instrumental Music Department. From collective bands of small numbers, to larger ensembles, orchestras, and symphonies, the department has gave students the chance to expand upon their career. Challenging curriculum in the classroom, private lessons, renowned faculty members, world tours and the chance to perform with widely known orchestras, the department has gave students quality experience to achieve their goals of professionalism. When Dr. Jim Burns came to Lee, he expressed his hopes for the music department board members to help with diversity and scholarships in an effort to attract more students. Being a background runner for the School of Music, he has had the chance to see the growth first-hand, and to continue in watching it develop. Students are getting the maximum orchestra experience, Burns said, Its rewarding to see the growth of the department. Working with esteemed faculty members who have encouraged the department has given opportunities to engage in once-in-a-lifetime experiences that are unique to Lee. Alexandra Smith, a junior music education major with a teaching licensure in instrumental and vocal music, has been able to engage as a student violinist. Working with world-class soloists as professors, it has given her the best experience as an upcoming professional.

I love learning from the incredible faculty in the Instrumental Department. Each professor is a treasure trove of both knowledge of music, and God-given wisdom, Smith said, I hold onto everything they teach, in hopes that I may someday be an effective and captivating teacher as they are. The Instrumental Music Department has been encouraging students in various ways to explore what God has called them to. Each lecture, performance and practice, seeks to serve the student with adequate professionalism to prepare them for their future. Aside from the departments expansion, heartache settled over a large majority of the faculty and student population as adjunct percussion professor, Dr. Brandon Wood, suddenly passed away in an automobile accident on October 30, 2012. As I reflect on Dr. Wood I realize the great impact that teachers have on a daily basis, said Dr. William Green, Dean of the School of Music, We often don't have extended time with an individual student but the time that we have can make a lifelong impact. As I hear students reflect on Dr. Wood I see that fact evident in every conversation. Dr. Green, along with other esteemed faculty members expressed their regret for the loss. Brandon Wood's life and work were an inspiration to all of us. An effective teacher in the applied music studio and the classroom, he motivated and ministered to students at all levels of the academic spectrum, said Dr. Phillip Thomas, professor of music and chair of Department of Instrumental Music, We also enjoyed hearing his skillful performances as a professional percussionist. Since he was a product of Lee

University's School of Music, we were especially proud of his accomplishments and the way he always integrated his faith with his profession. He is sorely missed! It was evident that Dr. Wood left an impression on not only the faculty that he worked closely with, but also with the students in the classes he taught. Probably the most remarkable thing about him was how evident his passion for us as a class and also for God was, said Sarah Chatterton, a freshman at Lee, He was just one of those people that you could tell genuinely cared. And plus, he made the terrible three hour night class fun and interesting. Dr. Woods heart was set on helping those around him be the best they could be. His passion for music and Christ left an imprint on the School of Music, and all those effected by his death. With his legacy, it gives us a chance to continue with success at whatever rate we are going and to follow the future paths God has laid out for us. ###