Immaculata University student Rachael Barnes, of Timonium, Md., is the recipient of the 2020-2021 Jacobs Music Company Steinway Award.

The award is given to a graduating senior, chosen by the university’s music faculty, in recognition of outstanding pianistic ability, musicianship, and artistic and academic scholarship. The recipient receives a cash gift and a plaque of recognition.

Barnes is a music therapy major, with an emphasis on piano performance.

“As an All-Steinway School, we are fortunate to partner with the Jacobs Music Company in recognizing our most accomplished piano major each year,” said Joseph Gehring, chair of the university’s Music Department. “Rachael has without question demonstrated her outstanding pianistic ability on the concert stage, as well as her commitment to academic excellence in the classroom.”

“I am overwhelmed with humility, joy, and gratitude that I have received this prestigious recognition,” said Barnes. “What a beautiful testament to all of the exceptional teachers who have helped cultivate and develop my God-given musical abilities. I am so grateful for the opportunities I have had to study with Dr. (William) Carr and to develop my performance abilities.”

After graduation, Barnes will complete her music therapy internship at a Recovery Centers of America site in Maryland. She hopes to pursue a music therapy career in a treatment center for people struggling with substance use disorders. She is also interested in having her own piano studio to teach the next generation of music students.