Ian Denson: More than Notes and Rhythm
Jessica Matthews
March 26, 2009
Filed under Student Life, Student Profiles
“Then I will go to the alter of God, To God my exceeding joy; And on the harp I will praise You, O God, my God” (Psalm 43:4). For CCA Senior Ian Denson, music is more than just notes and rhythms: it is a way of connecting to God. When Ian was only two years of age, God called him to be a worship leader, and after his family consulted CCFL Worship Director Pastor Clay regarding when tobegin, the young pianist started taking lessons at the age of six. For the past twelve years, Ian has applied intense dedication and commitment to his calling. “[Piano] is a way for me to pour out my emotions, relax when I’m stressed, or take my mind off of ailments when I’m sick,” Ian explains. “Also, because I’m a perfectionist at heart, it is sometimes difficult for me to worship in a group. When I play piano privately, I can really spend time with God.”
Ian recently won 2nd place in the National Steinway Society Scholarship Competition and will therefore receive a $750/Full Scholarship to Florida Gulf Coast University, where he plans to major in Piano Performance. He also received Superior ratings in the “Children in Arts” Pompano Competition, as well as the FSMTA Piano Festival in both the Solo and Hymns categories. Furthermore, he achieved High Honors for earning 100% on all tests in the Student Day Piano Theory Evaluations. These competitions demanded constant dedication, and Ian practiced two to four hours daily, working on scales, pieces, and “troublesome” measures. “Piano has taught me that life is never easy,” Ian states. “There have been plenty of times in my study where I have seriously considered quitting…Often times it is difficult for me to sit down and focus on homework or classical music when all I want to do is play recreational music or do anything but homework. However, with competitions, tests, and examinations always around the corner, I have always had to remain focused on the task at hand. Even if I sometimes lose track, I will always find it sooner or later.”
Ian offers some advice to musicians out there: “I am good friends with many who are more skilled than me at the piano, and I don’t have a problem with that. I am doing what God wants me to do and I am content with that,” says Ian. “To those who WANT, really want, to learn an instrument, just try to fall in love with the gift God has given you. If you don’t practice, rehearsals, and performances are going to seem like a chore more than an enjoyment. And don’t expect to be the best. There will always be someone better than you. Just stick with it.” Ian’s goal is to worship and exalt God through music, and this is truly the key to his success.