Hochstein music history instructor Rob Goodling can trace his musical lineage through J.S. Bach and Josquin Des Pres, all the way back to John Dunstable in the 14th century, thanks to a college professor who shared this musical genealogy with him (see photo).
He says, “As a teacher, I’m aware that what I know and teach I’ve learned from my teachers, who learned from theirs. At the conclusion of my music history courses, I share this genealogy with each student, who then is able to add their name to the list.”
The connection with the English musician John Dunstable is particularly apt for him as a music history teacher, since Dunstable developed the concept of building a composition from the bass line up – which is still used in music today.
Goodling himself has had an impact on many students over the years, not only at Hochstein but also at high schools in Churchville-Chili and Corning-Painted Post. His first day as a choral conductor at Churchville-Chili High School he met a freshman named Renée Fleming. She joined his show choir, not as a soprano but as an alto since she wanted to sing harmony.
Fleming went on to be an opera superstar, but Goodling says his goal was to teach so that everybody sings well and loves to continue singing. His CCHS choirs toured Europe, including performing for the Pope, at France’s bicentennial celebration in 1989, and at the Seville Expo. He has seen many students go on to successful professional music careers.
At Hochstein, Goodling has taught classes on the history of opera, Beethoven symphonies, the role of women composers, and the history of musical theatre, as well as a general music history survey course. Outside his classroom, there is a bulletin board where he posted articles about music history in the making, and he would get notes from parents who enjoyed reading the articles while they were waiting.
He continues to make music himself, most recently accompanying tenor Mark Daniels in recitals both locally and in Florida, and on a CD they recorded.
He may have more time for music – and enjoying his landmark house in Corn Hill – in coming months since he is stepping down as Hochstein music history teacher after 18 years (plus 2 years back in the ‘70s on Hoeltzer Street). Piano instructor Julia Goodwin will be taking over his music history classes in the fall.
On behalf of all of his students – including some faculty members who attended his music history classes – we thank him for his years of service and hope to see him in the audience at future concerts.