University of Mobile Inc.
07/31/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/31/2024 08:31
University of Mobile Piano Professor Kadisha Onalbayeva Receives Prestigious Artist Fellowship
MOBILE, Ala. -The Alabama State Council on the Arts presented a highly coveted Artist Fellowship to the University of Mobile's Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, distinguished Steinway Artist, professor of music and director of piano studies in the Alabama School of the Arts.
Onalbayeva was the only recipient of a music fellowship among the 23 artists awarded grants during summer 2024. The $5,000 grants are awarded to outstanding Alabama artists to support the growth and development of their artistic careers.
Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts, said, "Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva has an unwavering dedication and genuine love for her students. This is evident in the countless hours she invests in their growth as musicians and followers of Christ. Being the recipient of this music fellowship is a testament to Dr. O's extraordinary talent. I am proud to have her as a part of UM's faculty."
Over the course of her career, Onalbayeva has garnered international recognition and accolades as a composer, performer and competition organizer. In addition to teaching and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile, Onalbayeva serves as founder and president of The Gulf Coast Steinway Society. The Society encourages the development of piano students of all ages and sponsors competitions that result in Carnegie Hall appearances for the regions' top students.
She holds two Master of Musical Arts degrees from the University of New Orleans and a Doctor of Musical Arts from Louisiana State University. A native of Kazakhstan, Onalbayeva began her musical training at the age of five and has won numerous awards throughout her career. An internationally known pianist and composer, she was commissioned to write a symphonic poem titled "Zherym" (My Motherland) by the Kazakhstan National Orchestra. The Minister of Culture of the Republic of Kazakhstan filmed a documentary on her life and musical career titled "Independent National's Heritage" which was released in both Kazakh and in Russian.
She recently returned from Kazakhstan where she was an adjudicator in the International Competition "Rotary Starts" and performed on recitals in the National Kazakh Philharmony. She is participating in the Golden Key Music Festival in Vienna, Austria from July 28-Aug. 5 where she will perform in Vienna's historic Ehrbar Hall.
Artist Fellowship applications undergo a rigorous review process, including evaluations by staff, panels of arts professionals, the Council's Grants Review Committee, and the full Council on the Arts. The recognition is a testament to Onalbayeva's significant contributions to the cultural landscape of Alabama and dedication to advancing the arts through her exemplary work.
Dr. Elliot A. Knight, executive director of the Alabama State Council on the Arts, conveyed his congratulations, stating, "We are deeply appreciative of your contributions to the cultural environment of Alabama. It is very gratifying to know that we can support your work through this fellowship."
Expressing her gratitude, Onalbayeva said the grant will provide her with the resources and opportunities to pursue new creative projects and further her influence in the field of music. This is the second Artist Fellowship she has received from the Alabama Council on the Arts.
About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of "Higher
Education for a Higher Purpose," founded to honor God by equipping students for their
future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.
For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.
Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and "playing with words" to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the University of Mobile unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.