As the percussion program in Mason’s School of Music continues to grow, a generous donation by a gifted musical luminary will help enhance educational experiences for students.
Fred Begun served as principal timpanist of the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) from 1951 – 1999.
Fred Begun, who served as the principal timpanist of the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) from 1951 – 1999, has donated his entire library of musical scores and individual timpani parts to the university. The collection will be housed in Fenwick Library and includes copious notes from composers and conductors during his tenure with the NSO, as well as autographed timpani parts.
In recognition of the gift, the School of Music will name its percussion studio in the de Laski Performing Arts Building the Fred Begun Percussion Suite. A dedication ceremony will take place in the de Laski Building on Thursday, April 12, at 7 p.m.
Immediately following the dedication, the Percussion Ensemble Concert will be performed in honor of Begun in the de Laski Instrumental Hall at 8 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.
“As one of the great musicians of his generation, we are honored that Mr. Begun has chosen Mason to donate his collection of materials used during his musical career,” says John Kilkenny, assistant professor and percussion area coordinator in the School of Music. “This collection includes a wealth of personal musical advice that will be an invaluable resource to current and future students in the School of Music.”
Begun began his professional musical career on the timpani – also known as a kettledrum – in 1951 after graduating from the Juilliard School of Music. Throughout the years, he has appeared under the batons of conductors such as John Barbirolli, Rafael Fruhbeck de Burgos and Mstislav Rostropovich.
He also holds the distinction of having given five world premiere concerto performances for timpani. His book, “21 Etudes for Timpani,” is used in music conservatories throughout the world.
To further honor Begun’s legacy and commitment to performance and education, the School of Music and the College of Visual and Performing Arts will offer scholarships named for Begun to outstanding percussion majors at the undergraduate and graduate level.
For more information, contact Kilkenny at 571-286-2796 or jkilken1@gmu.edu.