Jackson State University professor of music and pianist, Dr. Karen Laubengayer, served as one of three adjudicators for the Biennial Ellis Duo Piano Competition held in April at Belhaven University in Jackson.
Sponsored by the National Federation of Music Clubs, this renowned piano competition has drawn piano duo teams from throughout the United States. Four such teams made it to the final round of competition performing full recital programs including concerto performances at the Performing Arts Center at Belhaven University. The first place team received a $12,000 cash award and was invited to perform in concert at the 2013 Biennial Convention to be held in Greenville, S.C., June 24-29.
The second place team received a $4,000 cash award. In addition, a $1,000 cash award was given to one of the four finalists for the best performance of American Music.
Laubengayer was joined on the adjudication panel by Dr. George Keck, professor emeritus at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Ark., and Richard Glazier, concert artist and pianist from Sacramento, Calif.
“It was such an honor to be invited to serve as an adjudicator for this prestigious competition” says Laubengayer. “I have performed as part of a piano duo myself for over 20 years and am thrilled to see a national competition dedicated to this form of ensemble.”
The competition took place on April 6.