Totentanz (English: Dance of the Dead): Paraphrase on Dies irae, S.126, is the name of a work for solo piano and orchestra by Franz Liszt notable for being based on the Gregorian plainchant melody Dies irae as well as for stylistic innovations. It was first planned in 1838, completed and published in 1849, and revised in 1853 and 1859.

A jazz pianist is a musician who plays the piano in the jazz genre. Jazz pianists use the instrument to create complex harmonies, rhythms, and melodies that are central to jazz music. They often improvise, meaning they create music spontaneously rather than playing from written scores. This improvisational element is key to jazz and allows pianists to express their creativity and interact with other musicians in dynamic and innovative ways.

The Adagio from Johann Sebastian Bach's Sonata No. 1 in G minor, BWV 1001, is a beautiful and profound piece of music. It is the first movement of this solo violin sonata, and it showcases Bach's ability to blend intricate counterpoint with expressive, lyrical lines. 

Mozart’s Violin Sonata No. 18 in G major, K. 301, was composed in 1778 during his time in Mannheim and Paris. This sonata is part of a set of six violin sonatas, K. 301-306, which represent a pivotal period in Mozart's development of the violin and piano sonata form. Unlike some of his earlier violin sonatas, where the keyboard part dominated, these later works give more equal importance to both instruments, allowing the violin and piano to engage in more dialogic interaction. 

Lowell Liebermann's Trio for Flute, Alto Saxophone, and Piano, Op. 87, is a captivating piece that showcases the unique blend of these three instruments. Composed in 2002, the trio is noted for its lyrical beauty, rhythmic vitality, and the intricate interplay between the instruments.  Our faculty performed this piece and won first prize at the American Grand Prix. They have been invited to perform it at the Carnegie Hall Winter Concert in December 2024.