Few composers capture their time and become the iconic voice of their age. Leonard Bernstein found his “voice” in the early 1940s and projected the sound of urban and urbane America from the period of World War II to the antiwar movements of the 1970s and the restoration of freedom in Europe, with the fall of the Berlin Wall and Soviet communism.
Kevin Vortmann has been hailed by critics for being a “glorious-voiced” (Boston Globe) tenor who “sings and acts with compelling force and sensitivity” (Chicago Sun Times) bringing “emotional depth and tantalizing vocal pyrotechnics” (World-Herald) and “Surprising Versatility” (Associated Press), Mr. Vortmann is an increasingly sought after performer for work on both symphonic and theatrical stages.
A passionate advocate for advancing the impact of higher education music study and experience on American communities and national society, Harding is devoted to an array of organizations whose missions are consistent with this advocacy.
Ellen Douglas Schlaefer has staged many opera productions for some of the finest opera companies in the country, and since her appointment to USC in 2004, she has staged more than 40 productions for Opera at USC.
Equally at home leading both symphony orchestras and wind bands, Weiss maintains an active international conducting schedule, including recent concerts in China with many of that country’s leading professional symphony orchestras.
Alicia Walker teaches conducting and choral methods and courses in sacred music and music education. She is a frequent guest conductor, writer and lecturer.
RAMELLE BROOKS (Street Singer) from Fayetteville, NC, is a first year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from Fayetteville State University, and a Master of Music Degree in Vocal Performance from USC. Mr. Brooks studies under Mr. Jacob Will.
MICHAEL T. BROWN (Street Singer) from Rochester, NY, is a fourth year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance with a minor in Music History. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a Choral Emphasis from Gordon College, and a Master of Music degree in Vocal Pedagogy from Catholic University of America. Mr. Brown currently studies under Mr. Jacob Will, and participates in the Columbia Operatic Laboratory.
ROBERT M. DOOLEY (Street Singer) from Columbia, SC, is a community member who studies under Mr. Jacob Will. Mr. Dooley also participates in the Midlands Men’s Choir.
MARGARET EIGHMEY (Street Singer, Opera GA) from Schenectady, NY, is a second year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music Degree in Opera Theatre Performance. Mrs. Eighmey holds a Performer’s Certificate from SUNY Fredonia. She currently studies under Ms. Janet Hopkins, and is a Choral Scholar at Eastminster Presbyterian Church.
TYLER EIGHMEY (Street Singer, Opera GA) from Syracuse, NY, is a second year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Opera Theatre; Opera Directing. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from SUNY Fredonia. Mr. Eighmey currently studies under Dr. Donald Gray. He participates in the Columbia Operatic Laboratory, and is a Choral Scholar at Eastminster Presbyterian Church.
JOHNNIE J. FELDER (Street Singer) from Vance, SC, is a second year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts degree in Vocal Performance. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Benedict College, and a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance from USC. Mr. Felder currently studies under Dr. Donald Gray.
HINDEL A GARRISON (Street Singer) from Piedmont, SC, is a community member who previously received her Bachelor of Music Education degree at USC. She has studied under Professor Laury Christie and Dr. Donald Gray. She also participates in the Arpad Daraz Singers and the Columbia Choral Society.
CHRISTINA GRACE HARDING (Street Singer) from Columbia, SC, is a community member that studies under Ms. Janet Hopkins. Ms. Harding also participates in the SVHS Choir.
KIERRA HOGAN (Street Singer) from Beaufort, SC, is a second year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Delaware State University. Mrs. Hogan currently studies under Ms. Janet Hopkins.
EVY JOHNSON (Street Singer) from Firesteel, SD, is a first year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Opera Theater. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree from South Dakota State University. Ms. Johnson currently studies under Rachel Calloway.
MARY LOUISE LAYTON (Street Singer) from Richlands, North Carolina, is a first year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Opera Theater Performance. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts in Music, and a Masters degree in Business Administration from Claflin University. Ms. Layton currently studies under Rachel Calloway, and is a Choral Scholar at Washington Street UMC.
CHRISTOPHER-LOPEZ MOORE (Street Singer) from Edgefield, South Carolina, is a first year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Opera Theater. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Coker College. Mr. Moore studies under Dr. Donald Gray, and also participates in the USC Graduate Vocal Ensemble.
KERI LEE PIERSON (Street Singer) from Coon Rapids, MN, is a second year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance. She holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Central Florida. Ms. Pierson currently studies under Professor Rachel Calloway, and is also a member of the USC Graduate Vocal Ensemble, The Spark Collective, Deux Saisons, and is a Choral Scholar at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church.
CRAIG PHILIP PRICE (Street Singer, Opera GA) from Gilbert, SC, is a first year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance from Furman University, and a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance from the Manhattan School of Music. Mr. Price currently studies under Mr. Jacob Will, and is a Choral Scholar at Eastminster Presbyterian Church.
ALICIA RENNEY (Street Singer, Opera GA) from Eaton Rapids, MI, is a second year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music Degree in Opera Theatre Performance. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Western Michigan University. Ms. Renney currently studies under Ms. Janet Hopkins, and is a Choral Scholar at Eastminster Presbyterian Church.
TAMARA WILLING SILVA (Street Singer) from Columbia, SC, is a community member who previously received her Bachelor and Master degrees in Music Education from USC. She is the Music Development Specialist at Round Top Elementary, and is a Choral Scholar at Shandon UMC.
RUSTY SOX (Street Singer) from Columbia, SC, is a community member and USC graduate, previously receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism at USC. He also participates in Sandlapper Singers, and is a choral scholar at Eastminster Presbyterian Church.
TINA MILHORN STALLARD (Street Singer) from Johnson City, TN, is a Professor of Voice at the USC School of Music. She holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, and is an alumnus of the University of Kentucky (Haggin Fellow) and Belmont University (Presser Scholar). Dr. Stallard is a member of Saxe Gotha Presbyterian Church, and is thrilled to share the stage with her son, Nathan, in this production.
KATELYN TESLA (Street Singer, Opera GA) from Cincinnati, OH, is a second year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music Degree in Opera Theatre Performance. She holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance from Northern Kentucky University. Ms. Tesla currently studies under Ms. Janet Hopkins, and is a Choral Scholar at Eastminster Presbyterian Church.
HANNAH THOMPSON (Street Singer) from Greensboro, North Carolina, is a first year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Belmont University. Ms. Thompson currently studies under Dr. Tina Stallard.
LAUREN TOMME (Street Singer) from Orlando, FL, is a year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Opera Theatre. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree from Florida State University. Ms. Tomme currently studies under Ms. Janet Hopkins.
AMOS WARREN III (Street Singer, Opera GA) from Beverly Hills, MI, is a second year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Opera Theatre Performance. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance from Western Michigan University. Mr. Warren currently studies under Mr. Jacob Will, and is a Choral Scholar and Handbell Player at Washington Street UMC.
JOSEPH WILLIAMS-BIBILONI (Street Singer) from Columbia, SC, is a community member and Junior in High School. He currently studies under Mr. Tom Brunson.
KENDRICK WILLIAMS (Street Singer) from Bennettsville, SC, is a community member with Opera at USC. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Claflin Univeristy, and Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance from Loyola University New Orleans. Mr. Williams is also a member of the New Orleans Opera Association, Opera Creole of New Orleans, and is a Choral Scholar at Washington Street UMC. He currently studies under Tom Brunson.
JULIA WOODWARD (Street Singer) from Charleston, SC, is a first year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Furman University. Ms. Woodward currently studies under Ms. Janet Hopkins.
COURTNEY HOPE DIVELEY (Children’s Chorus) is a homeschooled 7th grader. Ms. Diveley’s previous credits include Jojo, Seussical; Ivy, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; and Bagheera, Jungle Book (Columbia Children's Theatre). She currently studies under Jerry Stevenson.
JOY DUGGER (Children’s Chorus) is an 8th grader at Irmo Middle School. Ms. Dugger’s previous credits include participating in the Lexington Richland District 5 Honor Choir from 2013-2015.
VIRGINIA DUNLAP (Children’s Chorus) is a 9th grader at A.C. Flora High School. Ms. Dunlap has performed as a member of the Girl’s Choir at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, and in the Children’s Chorus in Hansel und Gretel with Opera at USC. She currently studies under Janet Hopkins.
CARLY GALBRETH (Children’s Chorus) is a 7th grader at Heathwood Hall. Ms. Galbreth’s previous credits include Amaryllis in The Music Man at Heathwood; Queen Stefanie in Sleeping Beauty at Town Theatre; and appearances in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Snow White, Alice and Wonderland, and Oliver at Town Theatre.
MAGGIE GALBRETH (Children’s Chorus) is a 4th grader at Heathwood Hall. Ms. Galbreth has had roles in Sleeping Beauty, Oliver, and The Best Christmas Pageant Ever at The Town Theatre.
EMMALYN GILBRETH (Children’s Chorus) is a 7th grader at Blythewood Middle School. Miss Gilbreth’s previous credits include two Summers of TRI-DAC voice training; Alice in Alice in Wonderland; and Night on Broadway (Freeway Music); Shere Khan, The Jungle Book (Round Top Elementary); and appearances in Beauty and the Beast (Blythewood Middle School); Freeway Music showcases (Music Farm); The Nutcracker (Carolina Ballet); Winnie the Pooh; and The Little Mermaid (Columbia Children’s Theatre). Ms. Gilbreth studies under Sara Ann Russo.
GIA GUPTA-KAGAN (Children’s Chorus) is a 4th grader at Caughman Road Elementary School. Ms. Gupta-Kagan’s has had roles in Peter Pan (Town Theater) and Jungle Book (Columbia Children's Theater) and has participated in Broadway Bound. She currently studies under Ashlee Poole.
NATHAN JACKSON (Children’s Chorus) is a 6th grader at Blythewood Middle School. Mr. Jackson’s previous credits include Michael Darling, Peter Pan; Young Cosmo, Singing in the Rain; Flick, A Christmas Story; Flounder, The Little Mermaid; Tiny Tim, A Christmas Carol; Charlie Bucket, Willy Wonka; and Young Will, Big Fish at Town Theatre.
SOFIE JONES (Children’s Chorus) is an 8th grader at Montessori Middle School. Her previous credits include Veruca Salt in Charlie and Chocolate Factory at WG Sanders; Milky White in Into the Woods at Town Theatre; and performing with Town Teen Troupe. Ms. Jones studies under Janet Hopkins.
KAAVYA KARTHIKEYAN (Children’s Chorus) is a 5th grader at rosewood Elementary. Ms. Karthikeyan has participated in Broadway Bound, Jingle for the Arts, Youth Sandlappers Choir, and the USC Youth Choir. She currently studies under Ashlee Poole.
ASHLEY SUSAN KORNET (Children’s Chorus) is a 7th grader at Pleasant Hill Middle School. Ms. Kornet has previously participated in the South Carolina Honors Choir and won the overall award at the Dream Catcher’s Talent Show.
CAROLINE RACHEL KORNET (Children’s Chorus) is a 6th grader at Pleasant Hill Middle School. Ms. Kornet’s previous credits include Hansel in Hansel und Gretel with Dreamworks Productions. She was also a member of the South Carolina Honors Choir and won the overall award at the Dream Catcher’s Talent Show.
KATHRYN MATSUI (Children’s Chorus) is a 10th grader at River Bluff High School. Ms. Matsui’s previous credits include Ogre Fiona and Mama Ogre, Shrek Jr.; Ensemble, School House Rock Jr. (Meadow Glen Middle School), Beeatrice, Take the Bee Train; and Ensemble, Circo d’Opera (Carolina Opera Experience). She currently studies under Michael T. Brown.
SIDNEY POWELL (Children’s Chorus) is a 6th grader at Blythewood Middle School. Ms. Powell’s previous credits include Tinkerbell, Peter Pan Jr. (Round Top Elementary); Queen of Hearts, Alice (Freeway Music); and a performance in Freeway Music’s “A Night on Broadway.” She currently studies under Mari Hazel.
MCKENZIE POWERS (Children’s Chorus) is an 8th grader at Northside Christian Academy. Ms. Powers’ previous credits include Louise, Sunday in the Park with George; Children’s Chorus, Hansel und Gretel, (Opera at USC), and Tiny Tim, A Christmas Carole (Town Theatre). She currently studies under Kelsey Kish.
GRACE SAWICKI (Children’s Chorus) is an 8th grader at Crayton Middle School. Ms. Sawicki’s previous credits include Mike TeaVee, Willy Wonka (Town Theatre); Tobias, Sweeney Todd; and Pinocchio, Shrek Jr., (Columbia Children's Theatre). Ms. Sawicki currently studies under Ms. Janet Hopkins.
NATHAN STALLARD (Children’s Chorus) is a 5th grader at Meadow Glen Elementary School. Mr. Stallard’s previous credits include Charlie Bradley, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (Village Square Theatre); LeFou, Beauty & the Beast, Jr. (VST), Winthrop, The Music Man (VST), Herbert, Dr. Dolittle, Jr. (VST), Whoville Citizen, Seussical the Musical, Jr. (VST); Ensemble in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Annie Get Your Gun, and Peter Pan, Jr. (VST); Nathan, The Christmas Shoes (Saxe Gotha Presbyterian Church); Deletor, Star Quest (SGPC), and Finn, Back to the Cross (SGPC).
MARY GRACE TROBAUGH (Children’s Chorus) is a 7th grader at Hammond School. Ms. Trobaugh recently performed as The Steward in Into the Woods Jr. with Workshop Theater, and has also been in Workshop’s productions of Hairspray Jr., The Wizard of Oz, and The Little Mermaid.
CAROLINA WINCHESTER (Children’s Chorus) is a fifth grader at Rosewood Elementary. Mass will be Ms. Winchester’s Opera at USC debut.
SUZANNE AMARAL (Choir, Alto) from New Haven, CT, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a Performer’s Certificate in Voice. Ms. Amaral currently studies under Dr. Tina Stallard and is a member of Women’s Chorus, the USC Graduate Vocal Ensemble, and Concert Choir.
YASMIN BRADSHAW (Choir, Alto; Choral GA) from Clinton, MS, is a first year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting. Ms. Bradshaw holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree from Mississippi College. She currently studies under Dr. Alicia Walker, and is a member of the USC Graduate Vocal Ensemble and Women’s Chorus in addition to Concert Choir.
EMILY WILLIAMS BURCH (Choir, Soprano; Choral GA) from Savannah, GA, is a first year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting. She holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from Louisiana State University, and a Master of Music degree in Music Education from Florida State University. Mrs. Williams Burch is a member of Concert Choir, Graduate Vocal Ensemble and Women’s Chorus.
BLAKELEE CANNON (Choir, Alto) from Columbia, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations with a Performer’s Certificate in Voice. Ms. Cannon currently studies under Professor Rachel Calloway, and is a member of Concert Choir.
SARAH CLIVE (Choir, Alto) from Holbrook, NY, is a Junior pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Studies. Ms. Clive is a member of Concert Choir and currently studies under Professor Rachel Calloway.
KIRSTINA RASMUSSEN COLLINS (Choir, Soprano) from Los Angeles, CA, is a second year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts degree in Choral Conducting. Mrs. Collins holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of South Carolina and a Master of Music degree from Boston University. She is a member of the USC Graduate Vocal Ensemble and Concert Choir.
LINDSEY COPE (Choir, Alto) from Andrews, NC, is a third year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting. She holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a Choral Emphasis from Mars Hill College, and Master of Music degrees in Music Theory and Choral Conducting from the University of Tennessee. Ms. Cope is the instructor of Women’s Chorus at USC, and is a member of Concert Choir.
GRAYSON CRIBB (Choir, Bass) from Florence, SC, is a Junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Cribb is a member of Concert Choir, Men’s Choir and Carolina Band. He studies under Mr. Jacob Will.
ASHLYN DELOACH (Choir, Soprano) from Murrells Inlet, SC, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Ms. DeLoach currently studies under Dr. Daniel Cole, and is a member of Concert Choir.
DWIGHT DOCKERY (Choir, Tenor) from Maryville, TN, is a second year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Theory-Composition from Maryville College, and a Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting from East Carolina University. Mr. Dockery currently studies under Dr. Larry Wyatt and Dr. Alicia Walker. He is also a member of the Graduate Vocal Ensemble at USC.
LOGAN ETHEREDGE (Choir, Bass) from Columbia, SC, is a Freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance. Mr. Etheredge is a member of Concert Choir and Carolina Gentlemen. He currently studies under Dr. Daniel Cole.
KARLY FITCH (Choir, Alto) from Mount Pleasant, SC, is a Freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree. Ms. Fitch currently studies under Sara Ernst and is a member of Concert Choir.
AUGUSTO GIL (Choir, Tenor; Choral GA) from Blountville, TN, is a second year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting. Mr. Gil holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Carson-Newman University. He currently studies under Dr. Alicia Walker and is a member of Men’s Chorus, Graduate Vocal Ensemble, and University Chorus.
NATALIE GILBERT (Choir, Alto) from Lexington, SC, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance. Ms. Gilbert currently studies under Ms. Janet Hopkins and is a member of Concert Choir.
JADA ELIECE HOOKER (Choir, Alto) from Aiken, SC, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree. She currently studies under Dr. Tina Stallard, and is a member of Concert Choir.
CATHERINE HOWLAND (Choir, Soprano) from Central, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance. Ms. Howland currently studies under Dr. Daniel Cole and is a member of Carolina Band, Women’s Chorus, and Concert Choir
JESSICA JACOB (Choir, Alto) from Libertyville, IL, is a Junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a Performance Certificate. Ms. Jacob is a member of Concert Choir, Women’s Chorus and Graduate Vocal Ensemble. She studies under Ms. Janet Hopkins.
MADDIE JOHNSTON (Choir, Soprano) from Clover, SC, is a Sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance. Ms. Johnston is a member of Concert Choir and performs with Opera at USC. She currently studies under Dr. Tina Stallard.
NANCY JONES (Choir, Alto) from Decatur, GA, is a Freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Business. Ms. Jones is a member of Concert Choir.
KATHERINE KIMBROUGH (Choir, Soprano) from Blythewood, SC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Ms. Kimbrough currently studies under Professor Rachel Calloway, and is a member of Concert Choir.
JAMES LEWIS (Choir, Bass) from Florence, SC, is a Freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance. Mr. Lewis is a member of Concert Choir and studies under Mr. Jacob Will.
CHIENYI LI (Choir, Bass) from Tainan, Taiwan, is a fourth year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting. He holds a Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting from Mississippi College. Mr. Li is a member of Concert Choir.
ANNABELLE LUSK (Choir, Soprano) from Charlotte, NC, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance. Ms. Lusk currently studies under Dr. Tina Stallard. She performs with Opera at USC, and is a member of Concert Choir.
STEPHEN LYNCH (Choir, Bass) from Columbia, SC, is a sophomore pursuing Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Administration and Accounting. Mr. Lynch currently studies under Mr. Jacob Will, and is a member of Concert Choir.
KALEN MATTOCKS (Choir, Tenor) from Columbia, SC, is a Freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Ms. Mattocks is a member of Concert Choir and currently studies under Professor Rachel Calloway.
MATTHEW A. MCCALL (Choir, Bass) from Lexington, SC, is a first year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sacred Music and Organ Performance from Presbyterian College in Clinton, SC. Mr. McCall currently studies under Dr. Wyatt and Dr. Alicia Walker. He is a member of Concert Choir, the USC Graduate Vocal Ensemble, and Men’s Chorus.
SHANNON MCDONALD (Choir, Soprano) from Charlotte, NC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Ms. McDonald currently studies under Dr. Daniel Cole, and is a member of Concert Choir and Women’s Chorus.
JACOB OTIS (Choir, Bass) from Irmo, SC, is a Junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Otis is a member of Concert Choir and studies under Mr. Jacob Will.
ZACH PARISHER (Choir, Tenor) from Red Lodge, MT, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Parisher currently studies under Dr. Donald Gray, and is a member of Carolina Alive and Men’s Choir.
JAMES K. PARKER III (Choir, Tenor) from Temple Hills, MD, is a second year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Orchestral Conducting. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Providence College. Mr. Parker currently studies under Dr. Donald Portnoy and is a member of Concert Choir.
MELANIE PIERCY (Choir, Soprano) from Raleigh, NC, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Music Degree in Vocal Performance. Ms. Piercy currently studies under Ms. Janet Hopkins. She performs with Opera at USC and the USC Concert Choir.
KELLEY POWELL (Choir, Soprano) from Naperville, IL, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. She currently studies under Mr. Jacob Will. Ms. Powell is a member of Carolina Band, University Band, and Concert Choir.
EMMA ROCHELEAU (Choir, Alto) from Lexington, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance. She performs with Opera at USC, and is a member of Concert Choir. Ms. Rocheleau currently studies under Dr. Tina Stallard.
CAROLINE SCOBEE (Choir, Alto) from New Braunfels, TX is a Sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Ms. Scobee is a member of Concert Choir and studies under Professor Rachel Calloway.
CLAY SELLERS (Choir, Tenor) from Charlotte, NC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Management Science. Mr. Sellers is a member of Concert Choir.
JAMES SIARRIS (Choir, Bass) from Spartanburg, SC, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance. Mr. Siarris currently studies under Jacob Will. He performs with Opera at USC and the USC Concert Choir.
AUSTEN SMITH (Choir, Bass) from Warrenton, VA, is a Junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Smith currently studies under Sara Ernst, and is a member of Concert Choir and the USC Men’s Chorus.
CHRISTOPHER SMITH (Choir, Bass) from Columbia, SC, is a Freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Smith is a member of Concert Choir and studies under Dr. Donald Gray.
JESSE STRICKLAND (Choir, Bass; Choral GA) from Auburn, AL, is a second year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Composition. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Vocal Performance from Auburn University. Mr. Strickland is a member of Concert Choir and studies under Dr. John Fitz Rogers.
ALEXANDRIA THOMPSON (Choir, Soprano) from Augusta, GA, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a Performer’s Certificate in Voice. She currently studies under Dr. Tina Stallard and participates in Concert Choir, Carolina Alive, and Swing Shift.
JANTSEN TOUCHSTONE (Choir, Tenor; Choral GA) from Eddiceton, MS, is a first year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts degree in Choral Conducting. He holds a Bachelor of Church Music, Bachelor of Music in Music Education, and a Master of Music in Conducting from Mississippi College. Mr. Touchstone currently studies under Dr. Larry Wyatt and Dr. Alicia Walker. He is a member of University Chorus, Men’s Chorus, Graduate Vocal Ensemble, and Concert Choir.
VAVIEL VERNER (Choir, Alto) from Plant City, FL, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music with a Performer’s Certificate in Piano, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. Ms. Verner is a member of Concert Choir
WILL VOWELL (Choir, Bass) from Clover, SC, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Music degree. Mr. Vowell currently studies under Mr. Jacob Will, and is a member of Concert Choir
LEVI W. WALKER (Choir, Bass) from Columbia, SC, is a Junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Walker currently studies under Jacob Will and participates in Concert Choir and Men’s Chorus.
TAYLOR ZENTZ (Choir, Soprano) from Frederick, MD, is a Junior pursuing Bachelor of Arts degrees in Music and Public Relations. Ms. Zentz is a member of Concert Choir and currently studies under Dr. Serena Hill-LaRoche.
NELSON BAGWELL (Dancer) from Hendersonville, NC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Performance with a Contemporary emphasis. Mr. Bagwell specializes in Hip Hop, Contemporary and Freestyle Dance.
REGAN BAKER (Dancer) from Chester, MD, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Education. Ms. Baker specializes in Ballet.
ABIGAIL K. BOYER (Dancer) from Signal Mountain, TN, is a junior pursuing Bachelor of Arts degrees in Dance Performance and Choreography and History. Ms. Boyer specializes in Ballet and Contemporary dance.
LILY CRONIN (Dancer) from Andover, MA, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Performance. Ms. Cronin specializes in Ballet.
MADISON ESTRIDGE (Dancer) from Lexington, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Performance and Choreography with a minor in Neuroscience. Ms. Estridge specializes in Contemporary dance.
OLIVIA FRIEDEN (Dancer) from Indianapolis, IN, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Performance with minors in Biology and Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior. Ms. Frieden specializes in Ballet.
ALYSSA HOLT (Dancer) from Concord, NC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Education. Ms. Holt specializes in Contemporary dance.
MARI HOOPER (Dancer) from Roanoke, VA, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Performance and Choreography. Ms. Hooper specializes in Ballet.
MADELEINE DEVEREAUX MATTHEWS (Dancer) from Roswell, Georgia, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Performance and Choreography with a Concentration in Ballet, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. Ms. Matthews specializes in Ballet, Contemporary, and Modern dance.
JULIA MAXWELL (Dancer) is from Statesboro, GA, and is a sophomore pursuing a degree in Dance Performance and Choreography. Ms. Maxwell specializes in Ballet.
MICHAEL MIRANDA (Dancer) from Williamston, SC, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Performance and Choreography with a minor in Psychology. Mr. Miranda specializes in Contemporary and Modern dance.
EVELYN O’DWYER (Dancer) from Scarsdale, NY, is a freshman pursuing Bachelor of Arts degrees in Dance Performance and History. Ms. O’Dwyer specializes in Ballet.
VICTORIA PARKER (Dancer) from Rock Hill, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Performance and Choreography with a minor in Business. Ms. Parker specializes in Ballet and Modern dance.
EMILY ROBERTSON (Dancer) from Greenwich, CT, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Performance. Ms. Robertson specializes in Ballet and Contemporary dance.
CAROLINE TOBUREN (Dancer) from Sumter, SC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Performance and Choreography. Ms. Toburen specializes in Ballet.
FRANK ARNOLD V (Marching Band, Trumpet) from Charleston, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Arnold currently studies under James Ackley, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble, Carolina Band, Symphony Orchestra, and the Left Bank Jazz Band.
MICHAEL BAKER (Orchestra, Trombone) from Aurora, IL, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a Performance Certificate. Mr. Baker currently studies under Michael Wilkinson, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, and Trombone Choir.
CHASE BANKS (Rock Band, Drum Set) from Tallahassee, FL, is a second year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Performance. Mr. Banks currently studies under Dr. Scott Herring, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, and the Palmetto Pans Steel band.
MICHELLE BECK (Orchestra, Horn) from Birmingham, AL, is a third year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts degree in Horn Performance. Mrs. Beck currently studies under JD Shaw, and is a member of the USC Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble.
JULIEANNE BENNETT (Orchestra, Violin) from Blythewood, SC, is a first year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Violin/Viola Pedagogy. Ms. Bennett currently studies under William Terwilliger and is a member of the Graduate String Quartet.
JACKSON BOATWRIGHT (Marching Band, Clarinet) from Charlotte, NC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a Performance Certificate. Mr. Boatwright currently studies under Joseph Eller, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble. Symphony Orchestra, and Freshman Woodwind Quintet.
TREVOR BULLOCK (Orchestra, Bassoon) from Clinton, TN, is a first year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Performance. Mr. Bullock currently studies under Michael Harley, and is a member of the USC Wind Ensemble, and Woodwind Quintet.
DERRICK BURBAGE (Marching Band, Piccolo Trumpet) from Charleston, SC, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Burbage currently studies under James Ackley, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble and Left Bank Big Band.
TRISTAN BURNS (Orchestra, French Horn) from Charlotte, NC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance. Mr. Burns is currently studying under JD Shaw, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra.
JOHN CADDELL (Orchestra, Tuba) from Mt. Pleasant, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Theory. Mr. Caddell currently studies under Ronald Davis.
CHIN-WEI CHANG (Orchestra, Viola) from Yuanlin, Taiwan, is a third year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts in performance. Mr. Chang currently studies under Dr. Daniel Sweaney, and is a member of the Graduate String Quartet.
CHASE CUNNINGHAM (Marching Band, percussion) from Spartanburg, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Cunningham currently studies under Dr. Scott Herring, and is a member of the Percussion Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, and Carolina Band.
JARRAD DICKEY (Orchestra, Tenor Trombone) from Suwanee, GA, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a Performance Certificate. Mr. Dickey currently studies under Dr. Michael Wilkinson, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra.
AKEEM DYSARD (Orchestra, Percussion) from Brooklyn, NY, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a Performance Certificate. Mr. Dysard currently studies under Dr. Scott Herring and also participates in Symphonic Winds and Percussion Players.
ANNIE EATON (Marching Band, Piccolo) from Saint Petersburg, FL, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance. Ms. Eaton currently studies under Dr. Jennifer Parker-Harley, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble, the USC Symphony Orchestra, and Freshman Woodwind Quintet.
KATIE EATON (Marching Band, Oboe) from St. Petersburg, FL, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in performance. Ms. Eaton currently studies under Dr. Rebecca Nagel, and is a member of the USC Symphony Orchestra.
ALVINA EMRAN (Orchestra, Violin) from Myrtle Beach, SC, is a freshman pursuing a degree in Biology.
JONATHAN EVANS (Orchestra, Double Bass) from Columbia, SC, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in music Education. Mr. Evans currently studies under Craig Butterfield.
ZENAS GAWAI (Rock Band, Electric Guitar) from Lexington, SC, is a freshman pursuing a degree in Management and Marketing. He currently studies under Bert Ligon and also participates in the Left Bank Jazz Band.
CASSANDRA GIBSON (Orchestra, Viola) from Tampa, FL, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in performance. Ms. Gibson currently studies under Dr. Sweaney, and is a member of the USC Symphony Orchestra.
MICHAEL HALBROOK (Orchestra, Viola) from Vicenza, Italy, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Viola Performance. Mr. Halbrook currently studies under Daniel Sweaney.
ERIN HANSEN (Orchestra, Harp) from Greenville, SC, is a first year graduate student at Bob Jones University. Ms. Hansen is a member of the Wind Band and Wind Ensemble.
MIMI HARDING (Orchestra, Flute) from Columbia, SC, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Flute Performance. Ms. Harding currently studies under Dr. Jennifer Parker-Harley, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra.
BRIANNA HARRIS (Orchestra, Violin) from Columbia, SC, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Exercise Science. Ms. Harris currently studies under Neil Casey, and is a member of the Carolina Band.
CHELSY HARRIS (Orchestra, Percussion) is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a Performance Certificate. Ms. Harris currently studies under Scott Herring, and is a member of the Percussion Ensemble and Symphonic Winds.
COLBY HATHAWAY (Orchestra, Oboe and English Horn) from Charlotte, NC, is a senior pursuing a BSBA degree in Finance. Ms. Hathaway is currently studying under Dr. Nagel, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble.
SAM HAY (Orchestra, French Horn) from Montgomery, AL, is freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance. Mr. Hay currently studies under JD Shaw, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble.
LOUIE HEHMAN (Rock Band, Keyboards) from Ft. Mitchell, KY, is a first year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Piano Pedagogy. Mr. Hehman currently studies under Charles Fugo and Bert Ligon, and also participates in various Jazz groups.
MIGUEL HIJAR (Orchestra, Flute) from Tampa, FL, is a first year graduate student pursuing a Performance Certificate in Flute. Mr. Hijar currently studies under Dr. Jennifer Parker-Harley, and is a member of the Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble.
SAVANNAH HUGGINS (Orchestra, Clarinet) from Summerville, SC, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Ms. Huggins currently studies under Joseph Eller, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble.
CAITLIN JONES (Orchestra, Percussion) from Cocoa, FL, is a second year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts degree in Percussion Performance. Ms. Jones currently studies under Dr. Scott Herring, and is a member of the Percussion Ensemble.
IAN M. JONES (Marching Band, Percussion) from Lexington, SC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Composition with a Performance Certificate. Mr. Jones currently studies under Dr. Scott Herring and Dr. Reginald Bain, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble and Carolina Band.
BLAKE LAWSON (Marching Band, Trombone) from Columbia, SC, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance. Mr. Lawson currently studies under Michael Wilkinson, and is a member of the Left Bank Big Band.
SHELBY LEDBETTER (Marching Band, Clarinet) from Bluffton, SC, is a first year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Music Education. Ms. Ledbetter currently studies under Joseph Eller, and is a member of the Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble.
WORTH LEWALLEN (Orchestra, Violin) from Florence, SC, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Lewallen currently studies under Dr. William Terwilliger, and is a member of the USC Jazz Strings Quintet, and Symphony Orchestra.
MENGDI LI (Orchestra, Organ) from Chengdu, China, is a third year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts degree in Piano Performance. Ms. Li currently studies under Dr. Lomazov and Dr. Joseph Rackers, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble.
PAI LIU (Orchestra, Cello) from Shenyang, Chinga, is a first year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts Degree in Cello Performance. Mr. Liu currently studies under Dr. Robert Jesselson, and is a member of the Graduate String Quartet.
LOGAN LYSAGHT (Orchestra, Double Bass) from Marietta, GA, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Lysaght currently studies under Mr. Craig Butterfield and is a member of the Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and a Chamber Music ensemble at USC.
AARON MARTIN (Marching Band, Oboe) from Chapin, SC, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences. Mr. Martin currently studies under Rebecca Nagel and is a member of the Carolina Band.
CHRISTOPHER MCDONALD (Rock Band, Guitar) from Midland, MI, is a second year graduate student pursuing a Master of Music degree in Performance. Mr. McDonald currently studies under Christopher Berg and is also a member of the Spark Collective at USC.
TREVOR MCLAINE (Orchestra, Alto Saxophone) from Fort Mill, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. McLaine currently studies under Dr. Leaman, and is a member of the Carolina Band, Basketball Band, and Volleyball Band.
TRAVIS MOFFITT (Marching Band, Sousaphone) from East Bend, NC, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Performance. Mr. Moffitt currently studies under Dr. Ronald Davis, and is also a member of the USC Wind Ensemble and Carolina Band.
MORGAN MONTY (Marching Band, Flute) from Charleston, SC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance. Ms. Monty currently studies under Dr. Jennifer Parker-Harley. She also participates in the Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble.
WILLIAM NEWTON (Marching Band, Percussion/Snare Drum) from Augusta, GA, is a sophomore pursuing a bachelor of Music Degree in Music Education with a Performance Certificate. Mr. Newton currently studies under Dr. Scott Herring, and is a member of Swing Shift, the Percussion Ensemble, and Wind Ensemble.
KEVIN O’BRIEN (Marching Band, Bassoon) from Ellicott City, MD, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. Mr. O’Brien currently studies under Dr. Mike Harley, and is a member of the Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble.
CECELIA OSTAPECK (Orchestra, Violin) from Charleston, SC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Violin performance. Ms. Ostapeck currently studies under Dr. William Terwilliger and is a member of the Symphony Orchestra.
THOMAS PALMER (Orchestra, Clarinet/Bass Clarinet) from Greenville, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Composition. Mr. Palmer currently studies under Mandy Fang and Joseph Eller, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble.
MAX H PEGUES (Orchestra, Clarinet) from Cape Coral, FL, is a second year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Clarinet Performance. Mr. Pegues currently studies under Joe Eller, and is a member of the USC Wind Ensemble.
BRIDGET PICCIRILLI (Orchestra, Bassoon) from Charlotte, NC, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a Performance Certificate. Ms. Piccirilli currently studies under Dr. Mike Harley, and is a member of the Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble.
DREW PRESTON (Orchestra, Violin) from Lexington, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Preston currently studies under Dr. William Terwilliger, and is a member of the Jazz Strings Quintet.
MADISON RAY (Marching Band, French Horn) from Huntersville, NC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Ms. Ray currently studies under JD Shaw, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra.
DANIEL RHU (Orchestra, Trumpet) from Columbia, SC, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance. Mr. Rhu currently studies under James Ackley, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra.
JUSTIN ROBINSON (Orchestra, Trumpet) from Collierville, TN, is a first year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts degree in Trumpet Performance. Mr. Robinson currently studies under Professor James Ackley, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra.
TIAN SANCHEZ (Orchestra, Cello) from Tampa, FL, is a first year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Music Arts degree in Performance with a minor in Music Education. Mr. Sanchez currently studies under Dr. Robert Jesselson, is a member of the Symphony Orchestra, and works with the USC chapter of String Project.
SABRINA SCHULLER (Marching Band, Clarinet) from Goose Creek, SC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a Performance Certificate. Ms. Schuller currently studies under Joseph Eller and also participates in the Wind Ensemble.
BAILEY SEABURY (Blues Band, Drum Set) from Calera, AL, is a third year doctoral student pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts degree in Percussion Performance. Mr. Seabury currently studies under Dr. Scott Herring, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble, Palmetto Pans, and Percussion Ensemble.
MORGAN ELAYNE SKELLEY (Marching Band, Bass Trombone) from Mount Pleasant, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance. She Currently studies under Dr. Michael Wilkinson, and is a member of the Carolina Band.
SAMUEL SMOAK (Marching Band, Horn) from Charleston, SC, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Smoak currently studies under JD Shaw, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble, University Orchestra, and Carolina Cor Collective.
EMILY STEGMULLER (Orchestra, Viola) from Dexter, MI, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with a Performance Certificate. Ms. Stegmuller currently studies under Dr. Daniel Sweaney, and is a member of the USC Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Strings Ensemble, and Chamber Music.
JORDAN STUCKEY (Orchestra, Viola) from Charleston, SC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Viola performance. Ms. Stuckey currently studies under Daniel Sweaney, and is a member of the USC Symphony Orchestra and Chamber music.
SHANE THOMAS (Orchestra, Double Bass) from Murrells Inlet, SC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance. Mr. Thomas currently studies under Craig Butterfield, and is a member of the USC Jazz Combo.
HARRISON THORNTON (Marching Band, French Horn) from Atlanta, GA, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Music Education. Mr. Thornton currently studies under J.D. Shaw, and is also a member of the USC Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble.
ZACKARY TRUESDALE (Orchestra, Percussion) from Camden, SC, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance. Mr. Truesdale currently studies under Dr. Scott Herring.
JOSHUA TUTTLE (Orchestra, Saxophone) from Florence, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. He currently studies under Dr. Clifford Leaman, and is a member of the USC Wind Ensemble, Left Bank Big Band, and Regulus Saxophone Quartet.
DERRICK J. VAZ (Rock Band, Bass Guitar) from Boone, NC, is a sophomore pursuing a Performance Certificate. Mr. Vaz currently studies under Craig Butterfield, and is a member of the Marching Band, Left Bank Big Band, Symphony Orchestra, and the New Horizons Combo.
ADAM VERNON-YOUNG (Orchestra, Bass Trombone) from Asheville, NC, is a first year graduate pursuing an MAT degree.
NICHOLAS VLANDIS (Blues Band, Keyboard) from Myrtle Beach, SC, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies. Mr. Vlandis currently studies under Phillip Bush and Bert Ligon, and is a member of the Left Bank Big Band.
ANDREA VOGT (Orchestra, Violin) from Wayland, MA, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education and Violin Performance. Ms. Vogt currently studies under Dr. Portnoy.
KE’ER WANG (Orchestra, Organ) from MianYang, China, is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance. Ms. Wang currently studies under Dr. Joseph Rackers.
ADAMS WAY (Marching Band, Trumpet) from Columbia, SC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Trumpet Performance. Mr. Way currently studies under James Ackley, and is a member of the Left Bank Big Band.
SYDNEY WOMACK (Marching Band, Bassoon) from Lexington, SC, is a freshman pursuing a degree in Biomedical Engineering. Ms. Womack currently studies under Michael Harley and is also a member of the Wind Ensemble at USC.
DANIELLE WOOD (Orchestra, French Horn) from Advance, NC, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance. Ms. Wood currently studies under JD Shaw, and is a member of the Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra.
COLEMAN WRIGHT (Orchestra, Soprano Saxophone) from Florence, SC, is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education. Mr. Wright currently studies under Dr. Clifford Leaman, and is a member of the USC Saxophone Choir and Wind Ensemble.
BRIAN YONN (Marching Band, Trombone) from Warrenville, SC, is a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance. Mr. Yonn currently studies under Michael Wilkinson, and is a member of the USC Symphony Orchestra.
MICHAEL ZANG (Orchestra, Violin) from Bloomsburg, PA, is a freshman at USC and studies under Mr. Neil Casey.
ALEXANDER CAMMAROTA (Assistant Stage Manager) is quickly making a name for himself, building a diverse
repertoire both onstage and off. He graduated from the University of South Carolina
with a Master in Music in Opera Theatre. As acting assistant director and stage manager,
Mr. Cammarota oversaw several productions with Opera at USC, including Martha, Cendrillon,
Goyescas, The Old Maid and the Thief, and The Medium. While in residence, he directed
productions of Rita, Pepito, and La dolorosa. Since graduating, he has become a sought
after stage manager working on productions of La Traviata, Pirates of Penzance, La
Cenerentola, The Mikado, L’elisir d’amore, Turandot, Pagliacci, and Rigoletto with
Shreveport Opera; as well as, Pagliacci and Cavalleria Rusticana with Amarillo Opera.
HAYDEN DENESHA (Assistant Conductor) A native of Buffalo, New York, Mr. Hayden Denesha currently
serves as a Staff Conductor/Youth Orchestra Director for the South Carolina Philharmonic
Orchestra. While serving in this role, Mr. Denesha works with one of South Carolina's
largest youth orchestra programs, conducts children's concerts, and is the South Carolina
Philharmonic's primary cover conductor. In addition, Mr. Denesha presently works as
a Graduate Assistant Conductor for the University of South Carolina Symphony Orchestra.
Prior to his current positions, Mr. Denesha served as the Assistant Conductor of Orchestras
and Opera at the State University of New York at Fredonia, as well as Assistant Conductor
at the Miami Summer Music Festival and the PRISMA Festival in Western Canada.
Along with the above named festivals, Mr. Denesha has studied conducting at some of the world’s most respected conducting institutions such as The Pierre Montuex School and The Conductor’s Institute of South Carolina. Currently, Mr. Denesha is pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts Degree with Donald Portnoy at the University of South Carolina. His past conducting teachers have included David Rudge, Grezgorz Nowak, Micheal Jinbo, and Samuel Jones. He has collaborated with notable artists such as Jennifer Higdon, Robert Moran, Rachel Lee-Priday, and Dennis James. Equally at home as a performer on viola, Mr. Denesha currently holds section positions in the South Carolina Philharmonic and Aiken Symphony Orchestras respectively. Mr. Denesha received his Bachelors of Music Degrees in Music Education and Viola Performance, as well as a Master of Music Degree in Orchestral Conducting from the State University of New York at Fredonia.
ALEXIS DOKTOR (Costume Coordinator) originally from New York City, holds a degree in fashion design from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. While in school she had the pleasure of working under such designers as Oscar de la Renta and Vera Wang. While passionate about fashion design, her career as a professional ballet dancer is what led her into costume design. She also works for the Columbia City Ballet, as well as local theater companies. Ms. Doktor is returning to Opera at USC for her sixth season this year.
JEFF FRANCIS (B.M. Music Engineering Technology, University of Miami; M.Ed. Education Technology, University of South Carolina) began his career with Sony Classical Productions and Sony Music Studios (New York) as a Senior Technical Engineer. During that time he served as an adjunct faculty for McGill University’s (Montreal, Canada) Graduate Sound Recording Program. In 1999, Jeff joined the University of South Carolina School of Music as recording engineer. At USC, he has developed the audio engineering curriculum, teaches audio courses, and oversees all audio operations for the school. Jeff is also an active freelance engineer, producer and audio consultant, specializing in classical music.
HYUN JUNG IM (Rehearsal Pianist) from Seoul, South Korea, is a second year doctoral candidate pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Piano Performance. Aside from her own solo recitals as a pianist, she has had many collaborative experiences, including those with solo vocalists, opera, instrumentalists, and modern compositions in both Korea and the United States. Previous credits include Buoso’s Ghost and accompanist for Gianni Schicchi, and accompanist for Speed Dating Tonight!, Sunday in the Park with George, Later The Same Evening, Bon Appétit!, The Impresario, and La finta Giardiniera with Opera at USC.
LYNN KOMPASS (Musical Preparation and Vocal Coach) has performed in venues across the country including Weill Recital Hall, the Nicholas Roerich Museum, the Strings in the Mountain Festival in Colorado, Harold Washington Library in Chicago, and the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh. For five summers she was engaged as a pianist for the Steans Vocal Institute in residence at the Ravinia Music Festival. Most recently, she had performed and taught master classes in Northeastern Brazil and Thailand. As a coach/repetiteur, Ms. Kompass has worked at the Festival de Musique de St-Barthelemy, Chicago Opera Theater, Aspen Opera Theater, and Opera Brasil. On faculty at the University of South Carolina since 2002, Ms. Kompass holds graduate degrees from the University of Michigan.
MICHAEL LAROCHE (Production Manager/Technical Director) A Wilmington, Delaware native, baritone Michael LaRoche has sung in many locales along the east coast as well as internationally. He currently serves as the technical director for Opera at USC. A graduate of the University of Delaware, East Carolina University, and the University of South Carolina, he holds the BM, MM, and DMA degrees in voice performance. Recent engagements include the roles of Herr Frank in Die Fledermaus, Pandolfe in Cendrillon, Fred/Ghost of Christmas Present in Scrooge, Giuseppe in The Light in the Piazza, Editor Webb in Our Town, Coppelius and Lindorf in Les Contes d'Hoffmann, Pooh-Bah in The Mikado, Trinculo in The Tempest, Ben in The Telephone, The Vicar in Albert Herring, The Count in Le Nozze di Figaro, and Tarquinius in The Rape of Lucretia. In 2002 Dr. LaRoche made his international debut with the Regional Choir of Guadeloupe and the Cuban National Symphony under the baton of Tido Dejan during a 6 concert tour of the French Territorial Island of Guadeloupe. Previously, Dr. LaRoche has created several roles with Opera Delaware, including Out of the Rain and Billy and Zelda. Equally at home on the recital and oratorio stages, he has recently performed Moravec’s Songs of Love and War, Howell’s Sir Patrick Spens, Dubois’s Seven Last Words of Christ, Haydn's The Seasons, Fauré's Requiem, Mozart's Requiem, Vaughan Williams's Five Mystical Songs, and given recitals in Augusta, Greenville, Columbia, and Hartsville.
VICTORIA K. LEITNER (Children’s Chorus Master) is currently the director of the USC Youth Choir. She holds a bachelor’s degree in music education along with a vocal performance certificate from the University of South Carolina. She is a member of ACDA and is GIML Elementary General Level I certified. A native of Columbia, Ms. Leitner spent time at St. Timothy Catholic School in Virginia as the music and choir teacher. The after school Competitive Choir took first place at competition and scored superior ratings in all categories. Ms. Leitner was a scholarship singer and soloist for the Eastminster Presbyterian Church Adult Chancel Choir for five years and was the director of the Children’s Choir for two years. She has experience working with children of all ages, having taught music and chorus to pre-k through eighth grade, private voice, and Music Play at USC. She has acted as the Choral Clinician for Lexington 1 SSA Middle School Choral Clinic and the Richland 1 SATB Middle School Choral Clinic. Ms. Leitner serves as an adjudicator for South Carolina All State Chorus and District Honors Choir. She is a Trustus company member and active performer, performing multiple leading musical theater roles.
KENNA MACRAE (Projections Coordinator) is a freelance film and video editor with a BFA in Film and New Media from the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. Her body of work includes narrative film, music videos, commercials, internal corporate videos, social media content, and experimental projects. She works on projects across the country from her personal editing studio in Los Angeles. In addition to editing, she also works as a graphic designer, animator, model, and photographer.
EMILY MASON (Assistant Stage Manager, Assistant Children's Chorus Master) is a first-year graduate student pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching Elementary Music. She graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance from USC in 2017. She studied with Dr. Tina Stallard and performed with Opera at USC as "Celeste #1" in Sunday in the Park with George, "Berginella" in La Perichole, and a nurse in Così fan tutte. Emily now teaches Music Play at USC and works with the USC Youth Choir as the Assistant Director. Emily is overjoyed to be back with her Opera at USC family and to be a part of the this once-in-a-lifetime production.
BRENDA LORD-MCGREW (Hair Coordinator) has been a hair stylist for 44 years. Her hair designs have been published in national and international magazines.She also has been an educator for Redken, a hair cosmetic company for 14 years and works as a stylist in a downtown salon. Brenda has been associated with Opera at USC for 8 years.
TEDDY MOORE (Master Carpenter and Scenic Designer) holds a Bachelor's in Fine Arts degree in Scenic Design from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Previously, he has designed for Asheville Lyric Opera, Columbia City Ballet, The Mostly Baroque Players, Connecticut Opera Express, Florida State University, The Castleton Festival and FBN productions, where he is also the Company Manager.
KALEY KARIS SMITH (Production Stage Manager) is an alumna of both the University of Nebraska, graduating with degrees in Vocal Performance and English Literature in 2012, and the University of South Carolina, earning her MM in Opera Direction in 2014. Recently, she has directed John Davies’s The Bremen Town Musicians at Opera on the James, Robert Ward’s The Crucible with Chicago Summer Opera, Le Nozze di Figaro at Augusta University, and has remounted productions of Petunia and Jack and the Beanstalk with FBN Productions, Inc. Last spring, she was the Assistant Director and Choreographer for the world premiere of Stranger from Paradise, based on the life and poetry of William Blake, and Cosi fan Tutte at Opera Omaha. She has also worked as a stage manager and assistant director with Opera North, Opera Saratoga, Opera Delaware, Opera Omaha, Central City Opera, Opera on the James, Opera Columbus, the University of South Carolina, and Indiana University. After MASS, she will be stage managing Norma with Opera Southwest, and returning to Chicago Summer Opera in August to direct The Turn of the Screw.
BARRY SPARKS (Technical Director) Barry, a native of Gaffney, SC. and a graduate of USC, has worked in the theatre industry for 40 years. He has been associated with Opera at USC in varying capacities since 1989, primarily as lighting designer. He was lighting designer/technical director for the Columbia City for 24 years and has served as lighting designer for Workshop Theatre since 1994, as well as for numerous performing arts groups throughout South Carolina and beyond.