While “Celebrating Achievement” is a common tune to many students at The University of Alabama, for one, it is more than just familiar. Amir Zaheri, a doctoral student, is the man behind the music.
Aside from being a doctoral student, Zaheri is an instructor of music composition and theory in the School of Music and the director of the University’s contemporary ensemble. He came to the University in fall 2011 because he was drawn to the School of Music for its renowned instructors and excellent academics.
“First of all, I came [to UA] because of Dr. Craig P. First – the composer with whom I study. I was a very big fan of his music long before I had the chance to meet him,” Zaheri said. “Having the opportunity to work with him and having his mentorship has been amazing. Second, I chose to come to UA because of the incredible music academics and the strong performance areas. The composition, theory and musicology faculty is exceptional. Add to this a large number of remarkably talented and diverse performers, music therapists and music education specialists, and you have – as far as I’m concerned – a recipe for a top-notch musical establishment.”
In 2012 Judy Bonner, then the provost, commissioned him to compose what is now known as “Celebrating Achievement.”
“At the time that Dr. Bonner commissioned ‘Celebrating Achievement’ she was UA’s Provost. At the time of the unveiling of ‘Celebrating Achievement’ Dr. Bonner was UA’s president,” he said. “I have always thought that to be a neat progression point of the project. Something most do not realize is that ‘Celebrating Achievement’ also includes a text. The idea was that the piece may be heard on Denny Chimes, played at festive occasions, and even sung, accompanied by organ, orchestra, a band or even a recording.”
Bonner asked that the piece be something upbeat and memorable so that when students hear the song played on Denny Chimes, they will recognize the tune and know the University is celebrating someone’s success, Zaheri said.
“‘Celebrating Achievement’ gives us an opportunity to recognize the many award-winning accomplishments of our students, faculty and staff. Each time the song is played, we are reminded of the many talented people whose outstanding achievements help make this campus such a special place,” Bonner said.
Today, many students are able to quickly recognize the tune when they hear it on the chimes.
“I like it; it’s different instead of just the same old chimes each day,” said Kayla Hammonds, a junior majoring in psychology. “It is always upbeat and peppy. Sometimes if you’re having a down day, it can help to lift your spirits.”
To Zaheri, “Celebrating Achievement” is part of his legacy here at the University.
“I love finding the email announcements and getting a chance to see what is happening throughout the University,” Zaheri said. “Furthermore, I am thrilled by the fact that Dr. Bonner recognizes groups and individuals from all over UA’s campus – performers of all types, researchers, teachers, and students from all disciplines, athletes, administrators, staff. There really is a great deal of high accomplishment taking place all the time.”
After completing his Doctor of Musical Arts degree, Zaheri said he hopes to remain in Tuscaloosa and continue teaching and professionally composing throughout his career. He is active in the community as a local music teacher and said he feels honored to be a part of the positive direction the School of Music is moving in.
“Beyond graduation, I will be honored to stay at UA for as long as UA will have me,” he said. “There are simply too many great things happening and so many great people making them happen for me not to want to stay, but we will simply have to wait and see what the future holds.”
