Hope

This, just in from Dundee.  Wish I had a photo, or even an audio!

"We went up to Hope this weekend to see Claire perform at the annual Hope Musical Showcase, which highlights Hope's music students. It ranged from orchestras to jazz bands to the Appalachian String Band (which was tremendous). Two of Claire's roommates were featured soloists, and blew all away. One with the viola, the other alto sax. A student played an amazing song on the huge church organ with just his feet. Amazingly, out of the hundred or so performers, only a third are actual music majors. Some were Biology, some were Engineering, and some were Pre Med. The college prides itself on giving access to the Music department resources to any student who wishes. 

A moment you will probable appreciate was the opening remarks by the President, who is an ordained pastor. Keep in mind the audience was mostly older individuals and conservative. The President announced that the new music center which all were in, just received a national award for being a "green" building. The audience clapped loudly. He then remarked that he was going to tweet out this to all Hope alumni, stating "it is about time that there is a tweet that is affirming and positive."

The audience clapped and CHEERED loudly. Quite a moment."