By Sarah Davis | Echo
You may be vaguely familiar with that one painting on campus-the one of the bearded bishop after whom this fine university was named. Believe it or not, William Taylor was a lot more than his perfectly fanned facial hair.
He'll be in Indianapolis this weekend to prove it.
The Taylor Wind Ensemble will perform "Golden Sounds of the American West"tomorrow at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art. Along with music from the 45-member band, junior vocal performance major Evan Koons will narrate the concert through a historical enactment of William Taylor's life. Koons will portray Taylor's role in ministry as a young preacher in California during the mid-1800s.
Music department chair and professor Al Harrison was invited to perform by the CEO of the Eiteljorg during the Leland Boren-sponsored "The Spirit of the American West" exhibit last semester. Harrison began researching the theme and asking students for music suggestions back in December.
"The premise of the museum this year is the great American gold rushes," Harrison said. "A lot of the pieces we are playing have this great Americana feel to them. There is a zesty and rhythmic vitality that really makes you feel like you are in the West."
The Wind Ensemble sets the scene and gives an audible backstory to Koons's visual presentation. Koons sings one hymn and performs a spoken script written by Harrison.
"Dr. Harrison has helped me so much throughout this process," Koons said. "He is so smart and passionate about history. From him I have learned more about research and how to fully devote myself to a character."
Both Harrison and Koons agree there is much to learn from the passionate way William Taylor lived his life. Through reading pieces of Taylor's memoirs and writings, Koons said he has not only grown in his acting abilities but also in his faith.
"Taylor is such a great example of what it's like to live for God," Koons said. "He is a neat man to aspire to, and I want to portray him well and do the part justice."
Because the concert is in Indianapolis, Harrison doesn't expect a huge crowd from Taylor students or faculty. However, on April 15, the concert set will be repeated on campus. The event will be expanded to include pieces about the Civil War, with a tribute to Abraham Lincoln.
"This concert's success isn't based on numbers so much," Harrison said. "It's really more about relationships and doing something special that connects Taylor University to the Eiteljorg and the Boren legacy. William Taylor's ministry during the gold rush is an interesting link most of us don't even know about. This time in history was all about greed and self-indulgence. Taylor's legacy is his countercultural desire for spreading the truth of rich fulfillment in Christ alone."
Discounted admission rates for Taylor faculty, staff, students and alumni families include admission to all exhibits in the museum. Tickets purchased at the door are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $4 for children (age 5-17) and children under 4 are admitted free. Complimentary parking is available, and a reception for Taylor alumni will follow the concert.
Because Koons is portraying Taylor in his mid-20s, the notorious beard will be abandoned for this performance. However, the resemblance between Koons and young William Taylor is striking. Those involved hope this creative opportunity to learn more about that bearded guy our school is named after will inspire an increased appreciation and interest in Taylor's history.
