2013 Cassie Davies

The goal of my project was to interpret the musical scenes in Jane Austen's novels. With the help of a reference librarian at the College of William and Mary, I identified several pieces that Jane Austen either played on the piano or would have heard performed in concert. I then matched eight of those pieces to particular scenes in each of her novels. Finally, with the help of my friends from HRA and the Virginia Children's Chorus, I recorded these pieces.

I developed several specific skills, including the use of electronic databases and modern recording technology. I also acquired specific knowledge, especially the types of music performed and appreciated in early 19th century England. I also acquired more specific skills. I cultivated the ability to imagine the actual songs performed in various scenes in Austen's novels. Above all, I developed skills for conducting a complex project involving many people and the coordination of different kinds of activities. I am grateful to HRA for the Hal Tayloe Enrichment Award that made this project possible.