BYU Commercial Music Students Were Tasked with Writing a Song in Three Days With the Help of World-Renowned Guitarist Mark Lettieri
Inside the music building’s new state-of-the-art recording studio, a nervous excitement was palpable.
BYU commercial music students Carson Ripley, Kieran Hellum, Hannah Eyre, Michelle Cheuk, Kevin West and world-renowned guitarist Mark Lettieri had one task: create a brand-new track in three days.
Lettieri, a five-time Grammy winner, was in Provo to perform as part of the BRAVO! series. While in town, he agreed to write and record a single with BYU students. He offered a keen musical ear and created a supportive atmosphere that challenged the students to take creative risks and stretch their abilities. His encouragement kept them motivated.
The BYU commercial music program is widely regarded as a top program, producing graduates that are creating music for media, soundtracks and contemporary productions. Under the guidance of Ron Saltmarsh, the program offers students hands-on opportunities to learn from real-world musicians while working in state-of-the-art facilities.
“I never had access to a world class studio as a college guitarist,” said Lettieri. “These students are getting an education that is very practical. In today’s music business, you have to know how to do a lot of things. So it’s good that they’re getting such a diverse education.”
Listen to “Two Worlds, One City” here.
Read the full University Communications article by Tyler Stahle here.
