Michael Dubuc, a senior Biology major, is pictured playing piano with his sister, Hannah, who plays violin, at the Falany Performing Arts Center. While not an enrolled student, Hannah is greatly involved at Reinhardt through other means.
Reinhardt University senior Michael Dubuc will be representing Reinhardt at the Georgia Music Educators Conference in January following his first-place win in the Georgia Music Educators State Piano Competition – College Division on Nov. 19.
Dubuc, a Biology major, played Hungarian Rhapsody No. 9 composed by Franz Liszt, and will perform this same piece in the statewide competition.
“When you get down there, you see all these people and know they have given the last several months getting ready to compete. Of course, you’re the same way,” Dubuc said of the competition. “Everyone is very professional and in suits and ties. At the same time, you know there is extreme competition.”
Dubuc has been playing piano for about 15 years, and being a non-music major at Reinhardt, Susan Naylor, associate professor of music, is his only instructor in the School of Performing Arts.
“I have been playing for about 15 years and have managed to be continually learning,” he said. “Ms. Naylor has helped me with more body control, having my whole body feel one with my hands. She has made me focus on all the aspects of the body.”
Naylor described Dubuc as a “very teachable” student who is humble and gives the glory to God for his successes in life.
“It is always exciting when your student wins a competition,” Naylor said. “Michael is extremely talented and works hard to accomplish his goals. Performing at the State Conference is a high honor and he will represent Reinhardt well – he is a born performer and loves it!”
Dubuc said he appreciates the extra time and care she takes helping him to perfect his skills. While his allotted time is just over an hour, he said Naylor works with him longer.
“I am really thankful for Ms. Naylor and the time she has taken out of her life for me. She always works with me for at least 2 hours and 15 minutes. She is a very generous person,” Dubuc said.
