February 17, 2026

Meet Piper Weldon, a featured performer in the upcoming Tactus performance on Friday, February 20 at 7:30 PM in Neidorff-Karpati Hall. Piper spoke with us about the performance, her favorite piece, and why she decided to attend MSM.

ABOUT PIPER

Piper Weldon (MM ’26) is a second year graduate student in the Contemporary Performance Program. Currently, she is studying under the tutelage of Lucy Shelton. Prior to MSM, Piper grew up in State College, Pennsylvania, and attended The Pennsylvania State University where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education.

Tell us about the upcoming Tactus concert!

Piper: This next Tactus concert, happening on Friday, February 20, will feature compositions by Linda Catlin Smith, Edgar Varèse, Finola Merivale, Tan Dun, and Lee Hyla.

Why should people attend this performance?

Piper: It will be a very special evening of new music! While I’m excited for all of it, I am thrilled for everyone to hear Lee Hyla’s Concerto for Bass Clarinet and Chamber Orchestra, with Mariana Clavijo Ledesma (MM ’26) on bass clarinet. She is a force to be reckoned with, and everyone in Tactus cannot wait to cheer her on. This is the first time this piece will be played since its premiere in 1988!

What is your favorite piece in this concert?

Piper: Silk Road by Tan Dun has been an absolute joy to work on. We’ve been lucky enough to dig into this piece with composition faculty member, Susan Botti, who has performed the piece and formed a special bond with Tan Dun. Scored for soprano and percussion, I am so very fortunate to perform this piece alongside my very close friend and collaborator, Grace Goss. There is truly nothing like collaborating with your best friend; the music making, the laughter, the chaos, it’s the best.

Why did you decide to study CPP at MSM?

Piper: I had always found joy in performing new works, especially the collaborative aspect between performer and composer. I knew studying here would not only be fantastic from an educational and performance aspect, but also in forming connections in the contemporary music scene.

What is something significant that has inspired you in your journey as an artist?

Piper: Collaboration has been the driving force of my career. It is a privilege to make music with others, and often I think we forget that.