The recent acquisition of 31 Kawai and Shigeru Kawai pianos
has been a landmark event for Jacksonville University. In addition to our
concert, studio, and rehearsal pianos, students benefit from access to a suite
of new, state-of-the-art electronic keyboards in our computer-equipped music
lab.
“We
chose Kawai as our piano fleet partner for their impeccable craftsmanship,
durability, and artistic expression,” said Dr. Scott Watkins, Associate
Professor of Piano and Coordinator of Jacksonville University’s Keyboard
Studies Program. “Our investment in these new instruments, like the investment
our dedicated students make in a quality education, is one which will last a
lifetime. Potential students immediately recognize our commitment to
their success, and our alumni know that where they earned their education is
worthy of their attention. We are proud to have earned Kawai’s EPIC
designation, and expect our new fleet of exceptional pianos to attract talented
musicians for a long time to come.”
Chairperson
Dr. Thomas Harrison added, “anytime that an institution makes significant
upgrades to instruments and equipment, you proving to current and potential
students that a high level of commitment to relevancy is important to everyone
associated with music there. The partnership that we have with Kawai
helps students becomes more proficient using the pianos or the keyboard
workstations in our music technology laboratory. As a composer, I love
writing using the Shigeru and Kawai lines as I find them inspirational as I
create."
Exceptional
tone, touch and consistency have made Kawai pianos a preferred choice of
professional pianists and music educators for generations. The elite Shigeru
Kawai grand pianos are acclaimed worldwide for their quintessential tone and
performance. The Elite Performing Instrument Collection (EPIC) is a
program made possible by the Shigeru Kawai Endowment.