Musician searches for lyrics

By KRISTEN PYLE
Collegian Staff Writer

Some experiences can only be described in so many words. But their musical interpretations are endless.

Daniel Eichenbaum (senior-music composition) is on a musical mission to "show off the talent Penn State has." To do this, Eichenbaum is collecting students' poetry that is reflective of their experiences at the university and setting it to music.

He is looking for a message expressed through poetry summing up the college experience, as well as something students can collectively relate to or at least understand.

All those interested in submitting poetry must drop off their work in an envelope posted in 116 Burrowes Building by March 1.

Eichenbaum, a playwright, clarinetist and composer, was inspired to start this project two summers ago while spending time in local coffee shops. Although mochas and lattes are the usual attraction for most coffee-shop goers, poetry was the main draw for Eichenbaum.

Initially, he had a difficult time finding text to compose his music to because of the expense involved with paying royalties to poets, said Cathy Anderson (graduate-voice performance and pedagogy), who will provide vocals for Eichenbaum's work.

But after hearing the talent illustrated throughout the college community at coffee-shop poetry readings, Eichenbaum decided to enlist students to provide the text for his music.

"I'm writing for the people here," Eichenbaum said. "I'm really excited about it."

Eichenbaum's inspirations include everyone from Leonard Bernstein to the musical ensembles at Penn State. He has used his peers and classmates as models, and they have been a great influence on his music.

He describes his work as "contemporary western art music" influenced by jazz and contemporary music.

Anderson became involved in bringing the poetry to life vocally when she met Eichenbaum in a music class. Anderson was planning her master's recital and Eichenbaum was looking for a voice for his project.

"I didn't want to do music by all dead composers," Anderson said. "I wanted to do a 21st-century composer."

Since Eichenbaum is a young musician at the start of his career, his work will carry on into the next century. So, to Anderson, his music seemed to fit the bill.

Although the piece will not be completed and performed until after Anderson's master's recital, she is still excited to be involved with the project.

"I feel really lucky to be able to do it," Anderson said.

Eichenbaum's project provides a unique opportunity for students as well. While there is no monetary stipend for donating poetry to Eichenbaum, students whose work is selected will receive a copy of the music and will be able to see the music performed live.

"I want people to flood me," said Eichenbaum. "I want to see everything."