Ruth Maurer Flute endowment enables partners to expand access to music in rural communities
Grand Junction – Colorado Mesa University and the Colorado Flute Association announced a joint effort to promote the flute and the flutists in Colorado’ rural communities. The partnership is a result of the Ruth Maurer Endowment, which dedicated $150k to the effort.
“Dr. Ruth Maurer is a remarkable woman with an incredible life story,” said CMU President Tim Foster. “In addition to her career as a mathematician, she is a talented artist and an amazing intellect whose generosity is going to help advance the future of students by connecting with them through music.”
The University approached the CFA about working together based on the mission of the CFA and the purpose of the Maurer Endowment. Association Vice President Michael Williams said the organization’s mission is to serve flute players throughout all of Colorado.
“The goal of the CFA is to be a resource for and to support all flutists across the state,” said Williams. “Whether a high school student is from Colorado’s smallest community, or whether they grew up in Denver -we are committed to enhancing communities though music. This partnership has a unique potential for us to advance our mission to rural communities.”
As an extension of the endowment, the CMU Music Department plans to host an annual flute competition that is open to high school seniors from rural communities. The CFA will explore sanctioning the event and the winner of the competition will receive a scholarship as well as access to the talent, expertise and opportunities offered by the CFA.
Calvin Hofer, DMA, the head of CMU’s music department believes the endowment and partnership with CFA poses a tremendous and unique opportunity for young people in rural places.
“At CMU, we believe music and the arts are one of the best ways to enrich communities of any size,” said Hofer. “In a nation often focused on rural and urban division, music is a universal language that eliminates barriers and brings people together. Dr. Maurer’s generosity is exciting and by using an instrument like the flute to enrich small communities, her vision is among the most creative I’ve seen in my career.”
President Foster will join Hofer and Dr. Ruth Maurer in a special naming ceremony celebrating the endowment on Thursday, February 14. The event will include a performance from Maurer as well as the commissioning of a chamber ensemble rehearsal room in her name. The event will occur at 4 pm and flutists and media are encouraged to attend at the Moss Performing Arts Center.
To learn more about the department of music at CMU community members are encouraged to visit mfoe.degaolife.com/music
To learn more about the Colorado Flute Association visit www.coloradoflute.org