The King's Connection Magazine Volume 24 // Number 1 | Page 8

Campus News
STUDENT AUSTRIA BOUND THANKS
TO PRESTIGIOUS SCHOLARSHIP

T

 he opportunity to be immersed in the work of classical
music masters, the culture of Austria, and the art of the
piano are what recently graduated fourth year bachelor of
music student DAVID FRASER will have this summer thanks
to the Johann Strauss Scholarship. Fraser received the
scholarship to support his studies of piano performance at the
world-renowned Mozarteum University in Salzburg, Austria.
Fraser is one of two scholarship recipients from Edmonton
planning to travel to Austria this summer.
“As I continue to play more challenging repertoire, I want to
do whatever I can to learn to perform the music in a way that
coveys a deep understanding of the piece and brings joy to
audiences,” says Fraser. “What a fantastic opportunity it is to
further my studies in a place like Austria, a hub for classical
music.” The Johann Strauss Scholarship, started in 1975
by the Johann Strauss Foundation, is administered by The
Wirth Institute for Austrian and Central European Studies. It
is awarded based on academic standing and musical merit
as demonstrated in an audition and interview, and supports
student expenses (travel and accommodation) incurred
during study in Austria.
“David has shown incredible determination and skill in his
pursuit of this award. In Austria he will deepen and hone
his skills as a musician, and return to Canada a more
accomplished artist,” says Music Department Chair Dr.
Joachim Segger. “King’s is thankful for the Johann Strauss
Scholarship, a valuable resource for Alberta’s music students
wishing to travel abroad and continue a tradition of excellence
in Alberta’s music scene.”
King’s has a long history with the Johann Strauss Scholarship.
DR. MARNIE GIESBRECHT, professor of organ at the
University of Alberta and adjunct professor at King’s, was
among its earliest recipients. DR. JOACHIM SEGGER,
professor of music and chair of the music department at
King’s also won a scholarship in 1975. Other winners include:
Elisabeth Raycroft, sessional instructor in voice; Leanne
Regehr, sessional instructor in piano, and alumni organists
Glen Segger and Richard Van Der Woude, and alumni singers
Mavis Calihoo and Martin Dargis.
Fraser will further his summer study tour at the Joseph Haydn
Conservatory in Eisenstadt, Austria. 

6 /// The King’s Connection /// Summer 2014