Washington Adventist University Hosts Annual MusicFest, Awards Nearly $1 Million in Scholarships
Written by: IMC Director Simonique Dietz
Washington Adventist University (WAU) recently hosted its annual MusicFest, a four-day celebration of musical excellence and education, held October 15–18 on the university’s campus.
This year’s festival welcomed 160 students from seven academies across the Columbia Union, providing participants with the opportunity to study, perform, and grow alongside WAU’s world-class faculty. The event, traditionally held in the spring, was moved to the fall semester to align with recruitment and scholarship initiatives.
“From a departmental perspective, MusicFest reflects our mission of service,” said Dr. Brian Liu, Associate Professor of Music and MusicFest Director. “We aim to provide students with opportunities to make music at the highest level. Through lessons, masterclasses, and rehearsals, students are challenged to refine their craft while being inspired by our faculty and one another. It also gives us the chance to showcase our music department and university to prospective students.”
The program culminated in a final concert, which was livestreamed for families, friends, and supporters to enjoy.
The full performance can be viewed here.
While photos can be found here.
As part of the event, WAU awarded 47 scholarships totaling $980,000 to high-achieving students from participating Columbia Union academies. These awards, distributed over four years, recognize musical talent and academic promise.
Scholarship recipients received awards ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 per year, representing institutions such as Takoma Academy, Pine Forge Academy, Blue Mountain Academy, Highland View Academy, Spencerville Adventist Academy, and Atholton Adventist Academy.
The faculty observed noticeable growth among the student musicians during the festival. “We see significant musical development each year,” said Liu. “Students leave energized and ready to inspire their peers when they return home.”
Through MusicFest, WAU continues to uphold its mission of excellence in the arts while fostering spiritual and artistic growth among youth in the Adventist educational community. The event remains a vital part of the university’s outreach to future students who aspire to pursue higher education in music and the liberal arts.