Hall, Deuell, Flynn all speak at Music Building ceremony

The Music Building was officially dedicated at a ceremony and concert inside Finney Concert Hall this morning, nine months after it was originally supposed to happen.

The ceremony was scheduled for last February, but was canceled due to inclement weather. A&M-Commerce President Dr. Dan Jones was first on the list of speakers that included President Emeritus Dr. Keith McFarland and United States Congressman Ralph Hall.

One of the first duties perormed by Jones when he was named president in 2008 was to take part in the ground breaking ceremony for the Music Building. 

"We are here today because of the imagination, determination and commitment of so very many people," Jones said in his speech. "President Emeritus Keith McFarland led the university through the complex steps of planning, proposing, funding and designing this building, a process that required insight, patience, and a healthy portion of faith."

Jones also praised State Senator Robert Deuell and State Representative Dan Flynn for their efforts in securing funding and support for the construction of the Music Building.

"Senator Bob Deuell and Representative Dan Flynn worked tirelessly to convince their sometimes skeptical colleagues in the state legislature that A&M-Commerce truly merited their confidence," Jones said.

Deuell is also known for playing the drums, and he said he greatly respects A&M-Commerce music department faculty for what they do.

 "You have earned this building by the work that you do," he said. "I have a deep appreciation for the people who taught me how to play music. The reason the music department at this university is so good is because of the faculty and their dedication to the students."

Flynn said the building was an example of how much he has seen A&M-Commerce change during his time in office.

"There's nothing in the state of Texas that can match what we've been able to do here. In my tenure as state representative, I have seen this university grow and flourish under the vision of Dr. McFarland and watched Dr. Jones come in and just make it grow. This music hall is another example of leadership. "

Texas A&M System Chancellor John Sharp was also in attendance in his first visit to A&M-Commerce since taking his current position.

The ceremony was also filled with performances by the brass ensemble, "Mane" Attraction Jazz Ensemble, piano division, chorale, "Panimation" Steel Drum Ensemble, and the wind ensemble.

Jones praised Music Department Head Dr. Chris White and everyone involved with the department for their hard work.

"Dr. White worked closely with faculty, students, architects, contractors and donors to ensure all of the pieces of the building would, when assembled, harmonize like a Mozart concerto," he said. "Of course to our faculty and students, whose talent and genius remind us every day of the limitless potential of the human spirit, we say thank you."