On November 8, 2021, Chatlos Chapel hosted many friends, family members and secret Scroll reporters all excited to hear Caleb Trezise perform on the piano. After an introduction from Kenneth Bormann, the man of the hour appeared on stage, a bowed, and began his recital. He played excerpts from Bach, Beethoven, Liszt, and Chopin. I had the honor of listening to Caleb Trezise perform alongside Erin Cummings last semester, and when I mentioned my excitement to attend his Senior Recital, my fellow Scroll members said they all wanted to go! So, we made a trip of it, and each reflected on how Caleb’s performance changed our perspectives on music:

Caleb:

One of the first things I had noticed about Caleb Trezise’s recital was how meticulously his fingers moved around the instrument. I was mesmerized by the way his hands gilded about, and the way his fingers pressed each key purposefully. Throughout the performance, one thing that continued to cross my mind was the fact that one wrong key would have been enough to ruin the whole piece, one small error was all it would take. And yet, that wrong key never came. Trezise was very intentional with each and every move, the exact right notes were played at the exact right time, he was infallible. I knew instantly that this kind of precision and talent could only be the result of devout discipline, and years of practice and dedication. As the concert drew to a close, I was awe-struck at how evident it was that Trezise and his music had left a lasting impact on the audience. It was apparent that this was a man who had left his mark on the Cairn community and I felt a great sense of pride and joy for him. Congratulations Caleb Trezise, you’ve certainly raised the bar for all us future Calebs here at Cairn University.

Alexa:

Caleb Trezise’s piano recital was one that left me in awe of how one can play piano with such beauty. I loved being able to perceive the gladness with which he played the piano through his facial expressions and body movements. The speed displayed in the movement of his hands was extremely impressive. I wondered how it was possible for one to play with such speed and proficiency at the same time. I enjoyed hearing a variety of different pieces that highlighted Caleb’s different abilities. It was encouraging to see the humility he displayed in playing such intricate pieces while constantly pointing the glory to God. This aspect of his performance was probably the most impactful to me and convicted me in thinking about why I play music and lead worship. 

Julianne: 

I think Kenneth Bormann spoke for all of us when he introduced Caleb Trezise’s piano recital with, “Caleb is honoring the Lord tonight.” The player’s approach to each piece was unique. He seemed to prepare mentally for each segment according to its tone– no wonder, since Bach, Beethoven, Liszt, and Chopin are quite different! At one point he began a Beethoven piece hunched over the piano, arms arched over the keys a bit like a harbinger. I closed my eyes, just listening to the music for a bit. When I opened them, I realized the absolute vastness between listening to a performance and watching it. I could listen to Paganini Etude No. 2 in E-flat Major anytime I wanted to on, say, Spotify– but there was so much lost in the music’s full emotional impact. Watching his head dip along with the music, Trezise so in tune with his abilities and the art itself, I understood why people talk so much of music as an expression of the human experience. There were parts that evoked hopeful assurity, others that conveyed a rushing like students through ancient halls, and near the end, a graceful goodbye. 

Caleb said of the recital that he was “pleased with a great performance. There were some spots but it’s okay! I keep telling myself that.” 

The Cairn Community has been blessed by your presence, Mr. Tresize. God bless you in your future endeavors!