The First Few Days of LSM 2022
Excitement fills the air as LSM 2022 begins! Students, faculty, fellows, and counselors have arrived on the campus of Valparaiso University to form this year’s LSM community and kick off the 40th anniversary celebration.
As students arrived on campus, MaryLynn Mennicke, Dean and Director of Admissions, greeted each person at the registration table with a warm smile. With four busy hours of registration, MaryLynn saw a wide array of emotions ranging from eager anticipation to unsettled nerves…and even a few tears, though mostly from parents. “It was wonderful to put a face to so many students and parents that I have been talking with over the past few months,” said MaryLynn. “Hope fills the air for the weeks of growth ahead, and I know it’s going to be a fantastic year!”
Counselors were nearby the registration table, eager and ready to assist students with the move-in process. Many of this year’s counselors have been students themselves, and understood the complexity of nerves and elation in the room. When asked why she loved LSM, counselor Emma Murphy was quick to state, “Because it’s fun! And of course, hard work… but mostly super fun!” With great joy, the counselors were ready to jump in and introduce the students to a welcoming LSM community.
Many fellows could be found helping with the audition process, with students and fellows collectively participating in almost 300 auditions in two days! At the welcoming table, the fellows enjoyed seeing the excitement on the student’s faces, understanding their nerves as they auditioned and met their faculty teachers. Said oboe fellow Bryan Tucker, “It is amazing to see all the talent that is here at LSM this year! I feel immensely honored to be at LSM as a fellow, having the privilege to help students along in their journey.”
For faculty, the first two days of LSM are filled with meeting students. Many facilitated auditions for hours at a time, and with thoughtful expertise worked to place students in large ensembles, chamber music, and studios. Executive and Artistic Director Thomas Bandar also fills the role of viola instructor at LSM. Said Tom, “LSM has seen significant enrollment growth this year! As faculty we are ready to meet each student where they are in their musical development and guide them on a summer of discovery and learning.”
As the sun set on day one, the LSM community entered the awe-inspiring Chapel of the Resurrection for the first evening prayer service. With the opening bell chime of evening prayer, the familiar pattern of worship at LSM began for another year. And as the sound of the organ filled the space and our voices combined in the first harmonies of the summer, the 40th LSM community was officially formed.
With opening convocation just a few short hours away, LSM is thrilled to begin anew! Join us over the coming weeks for behind the scene moments on our social media platforms, as well as by participating in our concerts in person or online. Information and details can be found at: https://www.lsmacademy.org/2022