Los Angeles Philanthropic Committee for the Arts Masterclass Series
The USC Thornton School of Music has been awarded a generous grant from the Los Angeles Philanthropic Committee for the Arts for the purpose of establishing a new Masterclass Series.
Co-directed by USC String department Chair Midori Goto and Vocal Arts Professor Rod Gilfry, this new Masterclass Series will launch in the fall of 2008. Free and open to the community, each master class presents a unique opportunity for students to interact with renowned visiting musicians who will provide discussions on a wide range of topics pertaining to artistic and career development. The Series will feature five to eight visiting artists per year, including well-known artists Peter Wiley, cello; Kim Kashkashian, viola; and violinists Gil Shaham and Cho-Liang Lin.
Strings Department Chair and violin professor Midori Goto says, “This series allows us to showcase the world-class artists that are regularly engaged with the School, as well as the many extraordinary opportunities available to our students.” A world renowned concert and recording artist, Goto became the Thornton School’s Strings Department Chair in the fall of 2007, and has already launched several new initiatives with the goal of deepening the educational experience of the students at Thornton.
Rod Gilfry joined the USC Thornton faculty in fall 2008 as an Associate Professor of Vocal Arts and Opera. Best-known as an opera singer, he is equally acclaimed as a recitalist and concert artist. His depth of professional and artistic opera experiences will provide a dynamic perspective for the new Masterclass series.
Founded in 1979, the Los Angeles Philanthropic Committee for the Arts consists of individuals and firms, and conducts activities designed to provide financial support to arts organizations in southern California.
All venues are on USC’s University Park Campus, and events are free and open to the community.
Los Angeles Philanthropic Committee for the Arts Masterclass Series dates:
We are in the process of confirming the 2009-2010 schedule. Please check back soon for updates.
