By David Poulos, Contributing Writer
Delaney Mavica ’24, a music education major with an emphasis on voice and piano, performed her senior recital on Oct. 21 in Paul Recital Hall. The recital included selections from several genres, such as a folk ballad, Romantic-era selections, art songs and piano pieces in collaboration with other instruments. The performance incorporated pieces that Mavica discovered in her time abroad, as well as pieces which carry a special meaning for her, such as “Astonishing” from “Little Women” and “Gretchen am Spinnrade.”
(Photo Courtesy of Delaney Mavica)
“This piece [‘Gretchen am Spinnrade’] is special to me, as it was the first advanced piece that I performed during my sophomore year at Gettysburg. It is truly one of the pieces that helped me cultivate a strong and supported sound,” Mavica said.
The song was described as ending with “a triumphant exclamation of new beginnings,” and it led to a standing ovation for Mavica.
Mavica spoke on what that “Astonishing” means to her: “…following your dreams no matter what others think of you. To me, it is very similar to the phrase ‘As one door closes, another opens.’”
Reflecting on her time at Gettysburg College, Mavica expressed her appreciation for the many opportunities she was able to take part in as well as the chance to broaden her horizons.
“During my time at Gettysburg I have gotten to explore different areas of music that I never knew existed. I also had countless opportunities to work in our community and in schools, and to grow and learn from all my friends and peers,” Mavica said.
Mavica also offered advice for future and current conservatory students: “Do as much as you can while you are in college! Go to social events and get out of your room. College is so short, and it is the only time you have to do these things!”
In the spring, Mavica will be student teaching, and her hope is to become a music teacher after graduation.
Delaney Mavica at her senior recital. (Photo Jessica Chernoff/The Gettysburgian)
Other students perform in Mavica’s recital. (Photo Jessica Chernoff/The Gettysburgian)
