By Matt Hoaldridge/reporter
About 40 years ago, a small group of housewives and businessmen who had a love for singing and performed locally developed a connection with the local community college, known then as Tarrant County Junior College.
This group, the Sonata Club, hosts recitals like the one held Feb. 19 on NE Campus and also provides scholarships to students studying music.
“The purpose of the club is to stimulate interest in good music, encourage study by members and area students, provide scholarships for deserving music students, but primarily to provide growing enjoyment of music and fellowship among members,” said Anne Wilson, the historian of the Sonata club.
Originally, the scholarship was available to students attending any of several local colleges like the University of Texas at Arlington, the University of North Texas and TCC, but for the past three years, they have been given solely to NE Campus students. The scholarships range from $300 to $500.
The recent recital featured a small group of student vocalists and musicians, performing classical music. TCC student vocalist Kaitlyn Barnard said she enjoys performing the style because “classical music is the basis for all music.”
Another student performer, Matthew Cruz-Huizar, said he plans to transfer to a four-year university after his time here so he can major in music.
“Whatever I do, music will play a large part in my future, whether that is professionally singing or writing music for other musicians,” Barnard said.
Barnard has been singing since she was a child and has learned how to play guitar, drums and piano to accompany her singing, whether classical or another of her other favorite genres: jazz, blues, Broadway and rock.
Many of these musicians have private teachers to help them perfect their craft.
“In a classroom setting, you don’t always get to focus on the small things that each and every person might struggle with whereas in a private lesson you get that personal attention to detail,” Barnard said.
To learn more about Sonata Club and its scholarships, contact Karen Parsons at karen.parsons@my.tccd.edu.
