Takeshi Nagayasu is a versatile pianist who has been recognized and has won many
top prizes in competitions such as the Kosciuszko Foundation, Jacob Flier, Artist
Presentation Society, Borderland Chopin, Nashville Chopin, Rosamond Haeberle,
Texas State Piano Festival Concerto, and the International Robert Schumann
Competition in Germany. He has reached the semifinal round and received a special
prize for the best interpretation of Fauré Impromptu at the Concours International

Uptown Threauxdown is a full-scale celebration of original sound at Loyola University New Orleans, and this year, the energy starts at a fever pitch. The night ignites with explosive sets from the Hip Hop and RnB Ensembles, bringing fresh beats, sharp lyricism, and an undeniable groove to the stage right out of the gate. It’s a high-octane introduction to the raw talent and original production defining the current scene.

Robert Gillespie, violinist and professor, was responsible for string teacher training in the School of Music until his retirement. Ohio State has one of the largest and most extensive string pedagogy degree programs in the nation. Under Gillespie’s leadership, Ohio State received the 2015 ASTA Institutional Leadership Award as the premier string education university in the country. Gillespie is a past national President of the American String Teachers Association. He is a frequent guest conductor of All-State, region and festival orchestras.

Join us for an inspiring afternoon & evening with guest lecturer and performer Asher Armstrong. 

Join us for the 2026 New Orleans Music Teachers Association Piano Sonata Competition!

Please be aware that details are subject to change. Check back for up-to-date info, or sign up for our mailing list!

 A Tribute to Life: From Serenity to Radiance

In completing the cycle of his piano trilogy, Loyola Piano Faculty Qifan Wu invites
audiences on a deeply moving musical journey that celebrates the resilience, love, and
hope woven into the human experience. Anchored by Schubert’s monumental final
piano sonata and culminating in the brilliance of Liszt’s electrifying Hungarian
Rhapsody, this program traces the arc of life—from its quiet shadows to its most
triumphant light.

Join us for a junior recital celebrating the art of jazz vocals. This warm and elegant evening will showcase Gracie's unique voice, heartfelt interpretations, and growing musical artistry. Set against a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, the performance offers a charming blend of classic standards and personal favorites—an uplifting glimpse into a blossoming jazz journey.

Deadline to Register: May 22nd, 2026

June 8-11, 2026

Four days of intensive jazz improvisation experience in a small group setting taught by Loyola University New Orleans Jazz Faculty. Musicians will learn improvisation and ensemble performance in a small group setting. We accept students with one year of experience and up. You must be 14 years old to stay in the dorms.