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This blog was created by the SIUE Honors 200 Spring 2024 Globalization and Music class, comprised of 21 students and their instructor, Associate Professor Therese Zoski Dickman, in January and February 2024. Dr. Meg Smith, from the SIUE IRIS Digital Humanities Center, provided technical guidance. This class blog project is being made public on January 15, 2025–Ruth Slenczynska’s 100th birthday.
Ruth Slenczynska was born on January 15, 1925 in Sacramento, California. Today she is internationally renowned as a former child prodigy, concert pianist, teacher, author, and friend to many. In honor and recognition of the pianist’s life and legacy as her 100th year approached, the HONS 200 students, divided into five groups, researched and studied a particular period of Ruth Slenczynska’s life.
The blog shares selected information discovered about Ruth Slenczynska and highlights key aspects of her life and legacy. This class project also demonstrates how the concept of globalization can apply to the pianist’s life at various stages.
We invite you to write and send an email if you know the pianist or can share a recollection of her on behalf of a loved one or an acquaintance who knew her. Perhaps you have a favorite memory or story you wish to share about Ruth Slenczynska or a comment about one of her piano performances attended or a recording that you heard. You may want to share how the pianist impacted your life or someone else that you know. Your shared recollections and comments may resonate with those who have had similar experiences; these may inspire others! Your written contributions will be compiled and may be added to the Ruth Slenczynska Collection at SIUE. These can provide greater insights into the life, career, and impact of Ruth Slenczynska well beyond those possible within the time and scope of this HONS 200 eight-week class. We thank you in advance for such positive additions!
With your help, this blog can more fully honor this exceptional, talented, and inspiring woman — Ruth Slenczynska!
The SIUE Honors 200-002 Class (March 2024)