MARANATHA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY

This semester, Timo DeLeon performed his Senior Piano Recital in Burckart Hall for an audience of students, teachers, and relatives. During the recital, DeLeon presented his performance skills and classical repertoire acquired during his time as a music major in Maranatha’s Music Department. From beginning to end, the recital displayed DeLeon’s musical prowess.

“Timo played with wonderful musicality and sensitivity,” commented MBU music professor Ruth Brown. “He showed great commitment to this recital and his hard work showed. Congrats to Timo and his excellent teacher, June Brus!”

DeLeon performed his recital under the direction of June Brus to fulfill the requirements of a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music with concentrations in Composing and Arranging and Church Music. After graduation, DeLeon desires to use his musical gifts in full-time ministry. 

Élégie, Op. 3, No. 1

Sergei Rachmaninoff

“Élégie” opens with a somber theme that evolves into a lyrical melody, beautifully evoking feelings of longing and nostalgia. Throughout the piece, Rachmaninoff masterfully fluctuates between sorrowful reflections and moments of joyful memories, mirroring the complex emotions experienced by someone in mourning.

Scaramouche, Op. 165b, No. III Brazileira

Darius Milhaud

“Scaramouche,” influenced by Brazilian culture, includes lively, syncopated rhythms and driving melodies that evoke a joyful spirit of celebration. The interplay between the two pianos mimics a conversational exchange where one piano “speaks,” and the other “responds.” DeLeon performed this piano duo with Joseph Rincon.

How Great Thou Art

Arr. Dan Forrest 

This arrangement demonstrates Forrest’s incredible ability to convey spiritually rich truth through music. The flowing opening creates a meditative setting that reflects the “awesome wonder” of the beauty of God’s creation. This hymn serves as a solemn and humble expression of worship and praise to God for His greatness and goodness.