Student sax player takes Fine Arts stage

When choosing a major for college, students begin thinking of what they’re passionate about. AASU student Michael Fahey’s passion is music.

Fahey is a music education major who has played saxophone for roughly 15 years. An extremely driven musician, he spends hours dedicating his time as the director of the Early Music Ensemble and the vice president of the Collegiate Music Educators National Conference (CMENC). As if that’s not enough, he’s also a member of Savannah Winds.

Fahey first entered AASU’s music education program in 2001. After taking some time off, he’s back in the rhythm and hitting every note. “[Fahey] is very professional and organized,” said CMENC president Leah Hannon.

Time is a precious thing to music education students. Both Fahey and Hannon said that they are at school as early as 8:30 a.m. They don’t get to leave until late in the evening due to classes, practices, performances and meetings.

“You can’t have a job and be a music major,” Fahey said. One of the most inspiring educators in Fahey’s life is music professor Dr. Randall Reese, who advised and instructed Fahey even before his days at AASU. Their relationship began when Fahey attended Savannah Arts Academy. Fahey, who at the time specialized in instrumental music, met Reese through a scholarship program offered through the Savannah Symphony. Fahey said that Reese has been “very critical to the entire process.”

Without hesitation, Fahey said his mother is one of the most influential people in his life. Throughout his saxophone career, she has always taken the initiative and has been to every concert. Fahey said that even when he took a break from school, his mother kept him from “remaining stagnant.”

Fahey will be accompanied by pianist Kelli Horton in his upcoming graduation recital. The performance not only fulfills requirements for a bachelor’s degree in music education, but it also celebrates Fahey’s musical accomplishments.

“I’m Michael’s guide through the process. He decides what pieces will go together,” Reese said. “He develops those skills now so that he can be prepared in the future.”

Michael Fahey’s graduation recital will be held March 4 at 2:30 p.m. in the Fine Arts Auditorium. The recital is free and open to all students. A reception will follow in the Fine Arts Gallery.