Cameron Denno: Life as a Music Major
Life on the Hill: Bison Blog
My experience in OBU’s Division of Music has been nothing short of an amazing time. My freshman year, I took part in one of two worship bands on campus, 519 Collective. This band, under the direction of Justin Pierce, led chapel and even traveled to different schools to lead worship together. Along with this, I have been a part of the University Chorale since the fall of my freshman year as well. Some of my favorite things about chorale include traveling, performing, and spending time with some of the best of friends. The spring of 2018, the University Chorale traveled to New York City, New York to perform in Carnegie Hall. Being a part of that group and being able to sing in one of the most famous music buildings of all time was incredibly special and a moment I will treasure forever. Along with our trip to New York we were able to perform Dan Forrest’s “Jubilate Deo” three times throughout the spring semester. This piece was extremely challenging due to the fact that we sang in 7 different languages. However, with the help of our wonderful director, Brent Ballweg, we were able to power through to perform an incredible piece.
Some of my favorite memories with Dr.Ballweg and the rest of chorale have occurred outside of rehearsal as well. Due to the fact that our lives get crazy in school, our professors do an amazing job of finding time for our musical groups to spend time together and cherish the moments. The whole “team” has been to Mr. and Mrs. Ballweg’s house over four times in the past two years. Having a home cooked meal with some of your favorite people just cannot be beat! Through these times outside of rehearsal, I have made some of the best friends I have ever had; ones to support me in all that I do whether that is spiritually, emotionally, or even physically. Having that support was one of the main reasons I chose to attend OBU. Along with the groups I have been involved with at OBU, there are several others that have given me a chance to appreciate music more.
We have two other choral groups at OBU including the Bison Glee Club and the Bisonettes. These are men and women choirs that perform for the student body and the Shawnee area. I have had experience working closely with some of these students and it has been a blast to get to know them. Along with the choirs, we have a couple of instrumental bands as well. These include the Bison Brigade, The Bison Jazz Orchestra, The Shawnee Community Orchestra, and The Symphonic Winds Orchestra. Throughout the year these groups put on wonderful shows to display their talent and hard work. They each have played at our “Hanging of the Green” and have had their own concerts as well. Due to all of the music groups at OBU, I have grown to love music more than I could have ever thought, and I truly believe my love will continue to grow my final year at OBU.
A little bit about me…
My name is Cameron Denno and I am a sophomore Family Community Service major at OBU. I grew up in Wichita Kansas with my family of 6. I love to sing, play intramurals, and spend time with my family and friends. My plans after OBU include getting my master’s degree in psychology and becoming a licensed Play Therapist. Someday I want to make an impact on the world through the talents and abilities the Lord has blessed me with, in order to change just at least one person’s life forever.
Life on the Hill: Bison Blog
