HNU's graduating music students host a virtual celebration

On May 8, HNU’s graduating music students hosted a virtual celebration—and over 150 people from around the world attended.

“Some of our graduating students live out-of-state or overseas and may not be able to attend HNU’s postponed Commencement. The students, therefore, initiated a celebration on Zoom instead,” said Maree Hennessy, Director of the HNU Kodály Center.

The event was a unique opportunity for the graduate music community—students, families, friends, faculty, alumni, and members of the Music Advisory Board—to come together to acknowledge and celebrate the journey of the Class of 2020.

With over 150 people in attendance, students were overwhelmed with the support shown. Attendees Zoomed in locally and from all around the world: Arizona, Boston, Oklahoma, New York, South Carolina, Canada, Ireland, Scotland, Peru, Colombia, China, the Philippines, Australia.

Hennessy said, “Our students are amazing. Most are music teachers, and during this time, they have had to creatively transition to remote instruction. They drew on that creativity to put together this special event. With just a few short meetings with faculty, and many hours editing and collating elements they created a memorable and emotional celebration for 2020.”