The Gretchen French Endowed Visiting Artist in Residence Series
The Gretchen French Endowed Visiting Artist in Residence Series brings an internationally renowned musician to Ashland University each year for master classes, presentations, and concerts for the entire Ashland community.
The French Series came to Ashland University through alumni Phil and Jean Lersch. After graduating from Ashland University, the Lerschs moved to Florida to begin a new ministry for the Brethren Mission Board. While there, they became good friends with Gretchen French (1913-94). French was an accomplished opera singer, but put aside her career to care for an elderly aunt. She then moved to Florida, where she was an active member of the Brethren church and taught music to countless students. She was fondly remembered as an inspiring, caring teacher who would waive her fee or drive long distances to share her love of music with others.
Although Gretchen French never attended Ashland University, she left the Ashland University music department a substantial amount in her will, as a fond reminder of her friendship with the Lerschs and as yet another example of her generous, selfless dedication to music and music students. The Ashland University music department is grateful to be touched by the infectious love of music that characterized French's life. Her legacy will live on for generations of Ashland University students and supporters.
Past Gretchen French Artists
2009 - Dr. John Feierabend, Music Education Specialist and Author
2008 - Wycliffe Gordon, jazz trombonist
2007 - Indonesian artists Euis Komariah (voice) and Gangan Garmana (kacapi), accompanied by ethnomusicologist Andrew Weintraub
2006 - David Huron, Music Cognition; Eric Sheperd, Chinese Opera; Pat
Harbison, jazz trumpet; Peter Jarjisian, Choral Conductor
2005 - Karel Husa, composer
2004 - David Frego, Dalcroze Eurhythmics
2003 - Robert Page, Music Director of the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh
