Composition Major Studies at University of Dayton

When Michael found out he had been accepted into the University of Dayton he was overjoyed. That had been his first choice of schools since he was a sophomore and really began to consider colleges. His parents also loved the idea of his going to Dayton as that was the alma matter of his aunt Sheila, his father’s sister. As soon as he received the letter and told his parents his father called his sister who was very happy and also proud. She mentioned that one of the things she remembers most fondly and loved the most about her college years was the beauty of the campus. That seemed like a simple pleasure to Michael whos was focuses on the music department.

He had played the piano since he was five years old and while that had been a long time passion of his, he was going to seek a degree in composition as well as go on to achieve a certificate in church music. His ultimate goal was to be the music director for a large church, but he ultimately wanted to compose sacred music. And though he dare not aspire to the heights of his great role model and major influence, he certainly wanted to emulate JS Bach in his career. So, with that ambition, Michael hadn’t even considered the beauty of the campus.

However, at the beginning of the summer he and his parents took a trip to Dayton. His parents wanted to tour the campus and they also wanted to find Michael a place to live. They spent four days in one of the friendly Dayton hotels located near campus. His mother was first to notice and remember the words of aunt Sheila when she commented on the beauty of the campus. Michael agreed that it was very nice looking, and had a quality academic feel, whatever that meant, though he was focused on finding his department, not smelling the roses. “As a musician and composer I should think you would want to reflect on the beauty and significance of nature,” his mother scolded. She was right, thought Michael and took a moment to breathe the air of his new campus.