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Economics & Music '24

Renee Qin

The “Ternaround”

Mentored by: Francois Rose (Music)
21-22 Chappell Lougee Scholarship recipient 

The project involves creating an original harp composition called the "Ternaround" that depicts the life and challenges of the endangered California least tern, primarily found along the coast of the Pacific Ocean. The composition is intended to raise awareness for the endangered species, encourage ecological preservation, and familiarize audiences with the bird's habitat. The project also aims to expand the harp repertoire with a contemporary piece. Renee Qin under her mentor, François Rose,  planned to personally observe the least terns at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge to create a more accurate depiction of the birds in the music. As a harpist, Qin used her performance experience to enhance the composition.

Watch a video about Renee's project on our Instagram!