Baljinder Sekhon (Bachelor of Music, composition/percussion) is Associate Professor of Composition at Penn State University and he has composed a new work in celebration of the School of Music’s 100th anniversary that will premiere at the Southern Exposure concert on October 4, 2024. He was also awarded the 2024 Award for Excellence in Mentoring from the Penn State College of Arts & Architecture. We recently caught up with Baljinder to ask him some questions about his time at the USC School of Music.
Why did you choose the USC School of Music?
I chose USC because there were opportunities for me to continue the wide range of musical activities I was interested in. I wasn't quite sure how my path would narrow and USC allowed me to stay involved in all aspects of music making while I found my niche in the field.
What ensemble(s) did you perform with while at USC?
Carolina Band; Chamber Ensemble(s); Drumline; Palmetto Pans Steel Drum Ensemble; USC Percussion Ensemble; USC Symphony Orchestra; USC Wind Ensemble; Southern Exposure
What person, course or experience was most influential for you while at the School of Music? How?
It is impossible to narrow this down to a single person or course, but I will say that Jim Hall had a major influence on my work ethic as a musician, Dr. Bain opened my ears up to musical possibilities beyond the experiences I had, and Dr. Fitz Rogers completely changed my musical life through everything he brought to campus (from Southern Exposure to the many eye-opening composition lessons I had with him). One great thing about USC is that each student can have such a wide range of experiences, on their own terms, and synthesize those experiences into a unique musical personality. Everything from Palmetto Pans to Southern Exposure concerts play a role in who I am today.
How has your education at the USC School of Music helped you in your life and career?
The community at the University of South Carolina School of Music included such a diverse population of musicians who were eager to share their interests and talents. Being in that environment gave me an appreciation for all styles and genres of music and because of that I have an easy time connecting with musicians from a range of backgrounds.
What is one of your favorite memories, classes, professors or activities while attending the School of Music?
My favorite classes were music history courses I took with Dr. Hubbert. As a percussionist, I wasn't as familiar with standard historical literature, and she had a way of making you love and dig deeper into music that was new to you. I would often walk to Papa Jazz and find used CDs of the music she would play for us in class.
What advice would you give current students or recent graduates pursuing a music performance or music education career?
Collaborate with your peers as much as possible and offer all of your connections to them.
What is one of your proudest professional or personal accomplishments that occurred after graduating from the School of Music in which your education played a role?
Directing International New-Music Festivals at both the University of South Florida and Penn State University.
Do you have any upcoming performances you can share with us?
A new work I composed in celebration of the School of Music's 100th anniversary! That premiere will be presented by the Blackbox Ensemble on the October 4 Southern Exposure Series concert. I'm also thrilled that the USC Wind Ensemble will perform my work "Remembering" on October 15 and that same work will be presented in December at NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) by the Stony Brook Wind Ensemble.
You can follow Baljinder on Instagram @sekhonmusic
The USC Percussion Ensemble, directed by Scott Herring, performs a wide variety of music written expressly for percussion. Selections range from chamber works for three to four performers to works using large forces and many instruments. If you’re interested in joining a percussion ensemble, learn more about the ensemble or would like to have a group perform for an upcoming event, visit their home page.