Washington Adventist University Hosts Successful 2025 Music Fest
Written by: IMC Director Simonique Dietz
TAKOMA PARK, Md. — Washington Adventist University (WAU) recently welcomed over 200 academy students for its annual Music Fest, held February 12–15, 2025. Students from Atholton Adventist Academy, Collegedale Academy, Mount Pisgah Academy, Pine Forge Academy, Shenandoah Valley Academy, Spencerville Adventist Academy, Takoma Academy, Tri-City Christian Academy, and several homeschool programs gathered for an extraordinary musical experience that featured band, choir, and orchestra performances.
Led by Dr. Samantha Clarke, Dr. Anwar Ottley, and Dr. Preston Hawes, the festival provided young musicians with the opportunity to refine their skills through collaboration and mentorship. The National Symphony Orchestra’s (NSO) residency was a major highlight, as the professional musicians conducted masterclasses and offered personalized coaching to the students.
On Thursday evening, February 13, the NSO gave a breathtaking performance at Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church, featuring works by Beethoven, Strauss, and Copland. The program also included vibrant dance rhythms inspired by tango, Andean folk music, Argentinian ballet, and African American juba. The evening was capped with the world premiere of Farhad Poupel’s “Fanfare for Common Heroes,” which received enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Friday evening’s Vespers program, presented by the participating academies, offered a reflective and spiritually enriching experience. On Saturday morning, the Festival Choir added to the solemnity and beauty of the Sabbath service at Sligo Church, captivating the congregation with their heartfelt performance.
The festival culminated in the Final Concert on Saturday, February 15, at 4 p.m., which drew a large crowd of church members, family, and friends. The sanctuary audience eagerly anticipated the students’ final performance. The concert showcased the talent and hard work of all participants, with a repertoire that ranged from classical masterpieces to contemporary pieces.
The event closed with a roaring standing ovation, as the audience expressed their appreciation for the students’ outstanding performances and dedication throughout the festival. Many were particularly moved by the students’ ability to perform with such precision and passion after just a few days of intense preparation and collaboration.
In keeping with tradition, more than $1 million in merit scholarships were awarded during the Final Concert, helping to support the students’ academic and artistic pursuits.
The 2025 Music Fest was a resounding success, leaving participants inspired and fostering a strong sense of community through the power of music. Washington Adventist University remains committed to providing young musicians with transformative experiences that nurture their talents and encourage lifelong appreciation for the arts.
You can find more memories from our 2025 Music Festival on our WAU Flickr account here.