Final answer:
Wilfred Bain was instrumental in making IU's School of Music a prestigious institution through his recruitment of top musicians globally and the establishment of an opera program. While he may not have directly funded buildings, his work provided the basis for the school's growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The role played by Wilfred Bain in establishing Indiana University's School of Music as a world-class program was fundamentally transformative. One of his key contributions was his recruitment of the best musicians he could find from all over the world. This strategy brought in a diverse pool of talent, where teachers and performers of the highest caliber could provide excellent musical education and elevate the school's reputation internationally.
Moreover, Bain was influential in the establishment of an opera program, which would become a signature aspect of Indiana University's music curriculum. This initiative reflected his understanding of the comprehensive education necessary for musicians, as mastery in performance and understanding of opera repertoires represent critical components of a rounded musical instruction.
While the information provided does not confirm Bain's involvement in the donation of funds for buildings such as the Musical Arts Center (MAC) and recital halls, his efforts to build a robust and multifaceted music program undoubtedly laid the groundwork for the physical and institutional expansion that would support such facilities. Bain's approach resounds with Robert Gupta's integration of music therapy and societal impact, and it runs parallel with efforts by other innovators in various fields who have understood the deep connection between art and its wider influence on society and culture.