Portland State Magazine Fall 2009

The music of Ernest Bloch 0 REGO NI ANS should be proud of composer Ernest Bloch, who wrote some of his best works while living on the Oregon Coast. Hear his music for yourself, as students and faculty cake on Bloch's lush melodies and rich, textured instrumentation all year as part of the International Bloch Jubilee Festival that marks the 50th anniversary of the composer's death. Swiss-born Bloch lived in Agace Beach from 1941 until 1959. His many works encompass string and piano solos as well as orchestra and chamber ensembles. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Bloch composed music that is considered romantic and reminiscent ofWagner, Mahler, and Strauss. "Many of our music majors don't know anything about Bloch," says Bryan Johanson, Music Department chair. "It's great music, and much of it is influenced by his Jewish faith. So we are working with the Judaic Studies program to present insightful lectures." 6 PORTLAND STATE MAGAZINE FALL 2009 "Ir shows how we can accomplish something much greater through cooperation," says grandson Ernest "Ernie" Bloch II '62, of the partnership between PSU's Music Department and the Judaic Studies program. Ernie Bloch, who lives within walking distance of campus, will have close to a hundred public performances and lectures at PSU to chose from , capped by a "Bloch Buster" gala. For a full schedule, visit the University's Web calendar at www.pdx. edulevents. .. ABOUT THIS PAGE We want to hear about your books and recordings and your future exhibits, performances, and direct– ing ventures. Contact the magazine by e-mailing psumag@pdx.edu , sending a fax to 503-725-4465, or mailing Portland State Magazine, Office of University Communications, PO Box 751, Portland OR 97207-0751 .