Hitting the right notes
Meredith is extensively involved in music at Northwestern, where she is a member of the Symphonic Band and Orchestra. She also participates in RedEd, Northwestern’s education club, and serves as a tutor, admissions ambassador and teaching assistant. In addition to music, Meredith is majoring in elementary education. After graduating from NWC, she plans to become an elementary teacher, give clarinet lessons and join a community orchestra.
Made musical
Music is very important to me. It’s everywhere in God’s creation—from the singing of birds to our individual heartbeats—and I wanted to study it so I could understand it better. I find it fascinating how God made music to be such a significant part of our lives.
Being God’s light
My professors encourage us to think about how we can share our faith while practicing our careers. At Northwestern, I’ve learned I can share God’s love with my students by being kind, patient and understanding. Even when I’m not able to speak about God directly, I can still share his light indirectly.
On tour
At Northwestern, I’ve had the chance to go on two tours with the Symphonic Band. The first year we went on a long tour within the United States to New Mexico, and the second year we went on a shorter tour to Sioux Falls and Minnesota. While on tour, we performed in churches and schools and had opportunities to serve those communities. And while this wasn’t part of touring, I was also given the opportunity to play a solo with the Jazz Band at the Jazz Soiree, which is an event the Student Activities Council organizes.
Excellence in all things
The music department faculty encourage students to do their best in all they do, whether it is performing on stage or learning in the classroom. This has helped me further develop a stronger work ethic and has prepared me to do my best in my future teaching career. Performance opportunities also help to build one’s confidence, which is a valuable trait in any profession.
Playing in the pit
One of my favorite memories is playing in the pit orchestra for Matilda. I love musicals, and participating in the pit orchestra allows me to perform in them. It is also a different kind of experience than a concert, and I enjoy performing in all different kinds of ways. Plus, it gave me a chance to work with a phenomenal director, Dr. Carlson, who has been instrumental in my development as a musician and in encouraging my faith journey.
