Released: October 15, 2009
Lincoln, Neb. - The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts and School of Music, together with the University of Nebraska Foundation, will be celebrating the life and legacy of Professor Emeritus Earl "Pete" Jenkins, who passed away on Aug. 3, as part of the University Singers concert on Oct. 15 in Kimball Recital Hall.
Download the invitation, Endowment info and RSVP reply card
Make an online donation to the Pete Jenkins Endowment Fund
Jenkins earned a bachelor’s degree in education from NU in 1943, then served in World War II. He joined the Nebraska faculty as an instructor in 1949 and earned his master’s degree in music in 1952. In 1963, he was named professor of voice. Over the years, he directed thousands of students in vocal and choral ensembles, including the University Singers. He directed the first congregate choral performance of Handel’s Messiah in the Coliseum in 1959 and oversaw the opera program in the 1960s. Jenkins earned several honors during his career, including the Builders Award in 1975 and 1977, induction into the Nebraska Music Educators Hall of Fame in 1995, and the university’s Distinguished Teaching Award in 1978 and the university’s Doc Elliott Award. He retired from the University in 1982.
For those who are interested, there will be an opportunity for alumni to participate in the finale performance with the University Singers at the concert that evening. Alumni must R.S.V.P. in advance to participate.
Because of his numerous contributions to the School of Music and his enduring legacy to his students and our alumni, we are establishing the Earl "Pete" Jenkins University of Nebraska Choral Endowment Fund. This fund will enhance the choral music program in the School of Music, for such programs as a choral composition commissioning, choral visiting scholars and choral music fellowships.
We hope you will join us for this special evening and will consider making a contribution to the Earl "Pete" Jenkins Endowment.
Schedule - Oct. 15, 2009
- 1-2 p.m. Watch the University Singers rehearsal, Westbrook Music Building Rm 130.
- 2-4 p.m. Tours of Westbrook Music Building offered by students, Westbrook Music Building, Rm. 130.
- 6 p.m. Rehearsal in Kimball Recital Hall for those participating in the finale performance of the "Hallelujah Chorus" from Handel's Messiah (bring your own music, if you have a copy), followed by a light dinner in Westbrook Music Building, Rm. 130.
- 7:30 p.m. University Singers Concert in Kimball Recital Hall. Advanced tickets are not available. Tickets are $5 general admission and $3 for senior citizens and students, available only at the door. Special tribute to Earl "Pete" Jenkins. Alumni will join the University Singers for a finale performance.
- A reception with the family will follow the performance in Westbrook Music Building, Rm. 130.