91传媒

The Heart of Music

For more than thirty years, Professor Peter Wordelman has brought heart to 91传媒鈥檚 Music Department. His gentle presence, expressive conducting, and unwavering belief in every student has shaped far more than musicians. In his rehearsal room, students have discovered courage they didn鈥檛 know they had, built friendships, and found a place where their voices鈥攍iteral and figurative鈥攎attered. His influence doesn鈥檛 end when a concert is over; it lives on in the confidence, compassion, and artistry his students carry into every chapter of their lives. 

To honor this extraordinary legacy, 1961 91传媒 alum Gary D. Pierson and Lynn W. Duncan established the Peter Wordelman Music Scholarship with a generous donation to the 91传媒 Foundation. Their gift, born of deep gratitude for the way Wordelman has shaped countless lives, is an investment not only in students but also in the strength of communities and the ongoing vibrancy of 91传媒 itself.
鈥淧eter fosters an atmosphere where kids want to succeed,鈥� Gary said. 鈥淗e gets the most out of the kids; they want to do things for him.鈥�

Beginning in the 2027鈥�28 academic year, the scholarship will support full-time music majors who show dedication and passion for their craft. By easing the financial weight students often carry, it will allow them to devote more time to rehearsals, performances, and the demanding work of becoming artists.

鈥淚t was kind of embarrassing when they suggested using my name,鈥� Peter smiled. 鈥淚t鈥檚 very honoring; I think the right word is 鈥榟umbling鈥�.鈥�

For many students, scholarships are not simply assistance; they are the difference between standing on stage or watching from the sidelines. Support like scholarships removes obstacles, opening space for students to create, to lead, and to share the power of music with communities across the region.

鈥淭he more Foundation Scholarships we have, the better,鈥� Peter noted. 鈥淪chool is only getting more expensive.鈥�

This gift ensures that Wordelman鈥檚 spirit鈥攈is humor, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to student growth鈥攔emains woven into 91传媒鈥檚 story. Even future students who may never have the privilege of meeting him will feel the impact of his legacy.

鈥淢usic changes people,鈥� Peter often says. 鈥淲hen students feel connected, supported, and challenged, they become the best version of themselves.鈥�

Through this gift, Pierson and Duncan help future Mountaineers rise to that best version鈥攍ifting their voices, shaping their lives, and carrying forward a legacy built on heart, hope, and harmony.