With almost two weeks of the semester behind us, I am continually lifted by those around me, those placing people at the center of all we do. Faculty are quick to point out that they don’t teach music, they teach people. Staff continue to problem-solve the unsolvable. There is a palpable spirit that seeks to make connections among people and ideas. As a result, an observation and an inspiration has been found.

Ohio, the Buckeye State, is home to 88 counties. The piano has 88 keys. This coincidence has sparked the curiosity of the School of Music to sound each unique key, to trek the state, and to engage with individuals and communities of each county. We are naming our project Opus 88.

88 Counties, 88 Keys

Some of the most important and exciting work an institution embarks upon seems to question the lines which define research, teaching, and service. I believe we can find shared space among all three. How can we both show and tell the importance of music education? How can we reconnect with alumni and Buckeyes across the state? And so, we are hitting the road!

We hope to support the University’s beautiful vision, “The Ohio State University is the model 21st-century public, land grant, research, urban, community-engaged institution.” We look forward to reconnecting with the Buckeyes in every corner of the state. Together, as a school, we share music, we share the journey, we share the joy.