With heartfelt words of praise and melodious musical tributes, the Fordham community came together on December 7th. This significant event saw the unveiling of a brand new suite of on-campus music practice rooms, which were honorably named in remembrance of Robert R. Grimes, S.J. During his 20 years as the dean of Fordham College at Lincoln Center, he played a crucial role in the expansion of arts programs.

Uniting the Fordham Community through Musical Dedication

Attendees and Their Significance

The attendees at this momentous occasion were a diverse group. Music students, along with music and art faculty members, were present. Donors who had supported the project also joined in, along with Fordham President Tania Tetlow and Father Grimes himself, as well as members of his family. (For more on the fundraising effort, refer to the related story.) They gathered outside the Robert R. Grimes, S.J. Music Studios at the Lincoln Center campus. These studios, which opened this fall, offer students five soundproof rooms, enhancing their music practice experience.

Each attendee brought their own significance to this event, adding to the collective spirit of celebration and dedication.

The presence of donors showed their commitment to the arts and the importance they placed on providing students with the necessary resources.

Speakers' Gratitude and Praise

Speakers took turns expressing their gratitude to the donors and lauding Father Grimes. Daniel Ott, D.M.A., the chair of the music and art history department, emphasized Father Grimes' long-standing support for the arts. He mentioned programs like the [Ailey/Fordham BFA in Dance program], the theater program, visual arts, and of course, the music program.

Father Grimes' dedication and influence in the field of music were widely recognized and appreciated.

His efforts had a profound impact on the growth and development of arts programs at Fordham College at Lincoln Center.

Students Finding Their Musical Voice

The gathering took place in the Lipani Gallery, which is part of a newly renovated visual arts complex adjacent to the five new music practice rooms. Tetlow spoke about the profound nature of Jesuit music, highlighting its blend of intellect and passion.

For the students, this new space provided a unique opportunity to explore and develop their musical talents.

It was a place where they could truly find their voice and discover what they had to offer to the world.

Features and Availability of the Practice Rooms

The five practice rooms vary in size, ranging from smaller ones for individual practice to larger spaces for ensembles. They are equipped with recording capability and virtual acoustic environments, allowing students to experience how their music would sound in different settings such as a cathedral or a concert hall. Ott noted that these rooms are available to all students, not just music majors, opening from 8 a.m. to midnight.

The diverse range of rooms and their features provide students with a comprehensive practice environment.

It allows them to adapt and grow in different musical settings, enhancing their overall musical skills.

Student Performances and Musical Tributes

A student group called the Lincoln Center Jazz Ensemble provided background music, adding to the festive atmosphere. Another group of student musicians performed Haydn's String Quartet in D Major, receiving applause and cheers. Father Grimes was visibly moved by their performance, stating that it had made his day.

The student performances showcased the talent and passion of the Fordham music community.

They also added a touch of musical excellence to the dedication ceremony.

Final Blessing and Musical Tribute

Vincent DeCola, S.J., an assistant dean in the Gabelli School of Business, gave a blessing to the new space. He spoke about the divine experience one can have when listening to music that enlivens the spirit. Before that, he entertained the audience with his own singing, adapting a song with lyrics tailored to Father Grimes. The title of his performance? "He Is a Fordham Ram."

His musical tribute added a special and memorable touch to the event.

It symbolized the unity and pride within the Fordham community.