Regent University Unveils New State-of-the-Art Piano Lab

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA (Aug. 21, 2023) – Regent University’s School of Communication and the Arts takes learning to new heights with the unveiling of its cutting-edge piano lab.

This new teaching lab features 17 state-of-the-art Roland HP-702 models, which boast a natural piano sound with weighted keys and progressive damper action pedals.  Every piano comes with a beautiful rosewood furniture-style stand, padded bench, and Roland headphones. The pianos are capable of integrating apps through the use of smart devices. The technology will also include a virtual soloist, various ensembles, an orchestra, a communication system with innovative controllers, and more.

“This piano lab is a treasure on Regent’s campus and in the entire region, because it allows our student musicians to develop their craft on the most advanced technology available,” said Dr. Simon Tarr, Director of the School of Communication and the Arts and Dean of the Honors College. “Elevating a musician’s skill and intellectual proficiency in this kind of environment assures them that they are prepared for wherever their gift and call may take them.”

This impressive new technology was funded by the E.K. Sloane Piano Fund of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation.

“Regent University is blessed to have been awarded this grant from the generous E.K. Sloane Piano fund through the Hampton Roads Community Foundation because, like Regent, they are committed to leading and serving to inspire greatness in others,” said Kelly Fielder, Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations. “The generosity the grant provided will give these future world-changers the tools they need to do more and be more.”

The piano lab allows students to work independently or interact with an instructor and other students. The courses that are taught in the lab will provide opportunities to be skilled in the areas of piano, composition, arranging, improvisation, sight reading, ear training, and further understanding of music theory and history—ensuring students leave the program better equipped for performance and ministry.

For a more detailed look at the various degree programs and resources available in the School of Communication and the Arts, visit regent.edu/music.

About Regent University

Founded in 1977, Regent University is America’s premier Christian university, with more than 13,000 students studying on its 70-acre campus in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and online around the world. The university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in more than 150 areas of study including business, communication and the arts, counseling, cybersecurity, divinity, education, government, law, leadership, nursing, healthcare, and psychology. Regent University has been ranked the #1 Best Accredited Online College in the United States (Study.com, 2020), the #1 Safest College Campus in Virginia (YourLocalSecurity, 2021), and the #1 Best Online Bachelor’s Program in Virginia for 11 years in a row (U.S. News & World Report, 2023).

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