By TAZIA MACHL
Dr. Ian Nie, a cherished member of Beloit College’s faculty and founder of the Turtle Creek Chamber Orchestra, will be honored during a memorial concert on Oct. 19, 2024, at 7 p.m.
Born in Tianjin, China, in 1948, Ian emigrated with his family to Beloit, Wisconsin, at the age of 11. He graduated from Beloit Memorial High School in 1966 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Music from North Texas State University. He later received a Master’s in Music from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Ph.D. in Education from New York University.
Ian was a member of Beloit College’s music faculty for over 35 years, continuing to teach even after his retirement. In 2012, he founded the Turtle Creek Chamber Orchestra (TCOO) to encourage young musicians and rejuvenate seasoned artists.
Throughout his life, Ian performed across Europe, China, and the United States. He married his beloved wife, Emily (Treder), in 1980, and they enjoyed 44 years together.
Dr. Ian Nie passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at Beloit Memorial Hospital. He is survived by his sister, E-Ping Nie Medalia (Jim Medalia); sisters-in-law Ruth Bishop (John Bishop) and brother-in-law Paul Treder; nieces and nephews Kari Reid, Chris Reid (Elvia), Heather Pearson (Chris), May-Ying Nie Medalia, Stephanie Bishop, Laurie Bishop, Chad Bishop; and grandniece Zoey and grandnephews Hunter, Alex, and Victor.
Ian left an indelible mark on Beloit College. For many, he was more than a professor; he was a mentor, an inspiration, and a friend. He embodied the spirit of a Beloiter, demonstrating gentleness, selflessness, and passion at every turn. His love for music ensured that his students grasped the joy and emotion behind every note. Ultimately, his influence extended beyond music; he fostered a generation of impassioned, curious, and open-minded individuals.
His students remember Ian for his kindness and guidance. “If there is anything that Ian Nie taught me, it is that everything in the world has some sort of value,” said Daniela Padilla, ’25. “He reminded me of the hope that I have and how I should spread that hope to others, just as he did for me and his other students.”
Ian will be honored on October 19, 2024, at 7 p.m. in the Eaton Chapel. The tribute concert will feature numerous individuals Ian worked with throughout the years, including friends, students, faculty, and members of the Turtle Creek Chamber Orchestra.
Featured Image: Ian Nie via Turtle Creek Chamber Orchestra
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