Gardner-Webb Orchestra Concert Features Premiere of Composition by Senior Caleb Etchison

April 17th Program Also Includes Solo Performances by Student Elijah Ulysse and GWU Alumnus, Billy Norton

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Gardner-Webb University Orchestra presents “The Stories We Tell,” at 8 p.m. on Monday, April 17, in Dover Theatre. The performance features the world premiere of “Seafoam Elegy for String Orchestra” by graduating senior, Caleb Etchison, from the studio of Dr. Matt Whitfield.

Etchison, a native of Gaston County, N.C., plays piano with the orchestra, sings in the concert choir, and plays in the Figaro Ensemble. During his studies at GWU, Etchison has received several honors. At the Alpha Chi National Convention in 2022, he won the $3,000 Gaston Scholarship. He was also commissioned by The Symphony of Rutherford County, N.C., to write a piece for its 35th Anniversary Concert. His piece, “Gateway to the Mountains,” will receive a world premiere performance at the event later in April.

Monday’s performance also features Etchison in the “Salute to Big Bands” along with orchestra member Elijah Ulysse. Additionally, the program includes a solo performance by violinist Billy Norton in “Overture to Orpheus in the Underworld.” Norton is a GWU alumnus and the director of the chamber orchestra at Burns High in Lawndale, N.C.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email [email protected] with your request.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.