Encore! 2016

ENCORE! ncore!

E THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI SCHOOL OF MUSIC MAGAZINE

WELCOME

Dr. Richard Kravchak

DIRECTOR OF THE SCHOOL OF MUSIC

I am delighted to have joined The University of Southern Mississippi family as Director of the School of Music. I am fortunate to lead a faculty that, in addition to being internationally recognized performers, scholars, and pedagogues, share a commitment to bring their passion for music to our students.

I have a wide variety of experiences that I bring to bear as I begin my tenure at Southern Miss. I hold degrees from the Eastman School of Music, the Juilliard School, and Florida State University. I have been heard as an oboe soloist around the world, appearing with ensembles including The Dubuque Symphony, The University of Hawaii Wind Ensemble, The Carson Symphony, Banda Espinia de Portugal and the Orquesta Symphonica de El Salvador. As a pedagogue I was the first California teacher to receive National Board Certification in music education. I have also received a Platinum Apple Award from the United Teachers of Los Angeles, and a Los Angeles County Teacher of the Year award from the Los Angeles County Office of Education.

As an administrator I have successfully led University Music Schools in California and West Virginia as well as having sat on the board of directors for the National Association of Schools of Music.

I invite all of you to be a part of our music community by your presence at our student, faculty, and guest performances, your financial support, or simply your good wishes. I look forward to personally meeting you and welcoming you into our community of performing arts.

ON THE COVER “Lofty Return” is a sculpture by David Anderson. It was commissioned by Southern Miss alum Chuck Scianna to welcome alums and visitors back to “the nest.” The eagle is positioned at the apex of the Rose Garden facing Hardy Street. The 6,000-pound sculpture measures approximately 22 feet tall by 20 feet wide, 8 feet deep and rests atop a pyrimad-shaped base.

Students who major in music live, work and play in an environment of talented peers and professors who are creative and passionate about pursuing a successful musical future. The School of Music offers a comprehensive music program of over 400 majors. It sponsors more than 250 recitals, concerts, performances and lectures, annually in nearly every genre. You will experience individual attention as you work toward graduation. We care about training musicians and placing our graduates into competitive jobs and graduate programs. In the School of Music, there are a myriad of performance opportunities in a variety of ensembles.

The School of Music at The University of Southern Mississippi is a family.

The School of Music provides a wealth of valuable opportunities for the professional and artistic growth of our students. Our faculty members perform at major venues around the world and teach at international festivals and conferences every year. Our ensembles host important guest artists such as PlĂĄcido Domingo, Yo-Yo Ma, RenĂŠe Fleming, Denyce Graves, Christopher Parkening, Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, Doc Severinsen, Sir James Galway, Joshua Bell and Ray Charles, to name a few.

Our students and faculty perform and teach on the national and international stage.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music.

FACILITIES

The School of Music facilities reside in two three-story buildings: the Mannoni Performing Arts Center and the Fine Arts Building. These two facilities provide our students with state-of-the-art classrooms and equipment, four major rehearsal halls, two dedicated chamber music rehearsal rooms, a computer lab, sound isolation practice rooms with VAE technology, a student commons area, 53 practice rooms, and faculty offices and studios. They also contain our three primary performance venues: Marsh Hall Auditorium (200-seat recital hall), the Mannoni Performing Arts Center Auditorium (740-seat proscenium stage) and the Intermezzo @ Woods Gallery Stage (70-seat, cafe-style intimate venue). The School of Music also performs in Bennett Auditorium, a 1,000-seat venue. All performance venues are equipped with live streaming and self-help recording capability.

ALUMNI

Southern Miss School of Music alumni teach in the finest universities and school systems in the country and perform on national stages from coast to coast. Our alumni perform as orchestral and jazz musicians, in opera and musical theater productions, and as concert soloists all over the world. We produce more public school music teachers each year than all other music programs in the state combined.

These music educators are making an impact in music education at local, state, regional and national levels through their work and research. Our alumni are also teaching at universities, colleges and conservatories in the United States and other countries around the globe.

APPLY ONLINE NOW! w w w. u s m . e d u / m u s i c To register for School of Music audition days, click Future Students and Auditions.

To speak to our admissions coordinator, please call 601.266.5366.

We live on a friendly and beautiful campus in a vibrant Southern community.

An education here is affordable and accessible yet priceless to your future.

UNIVERSITY BANDS

This has been an exciting year for University Bands. The Pride of Mississippi Marching Band and the Dixie Darlings performed throughout football season to enthusiastic and supportive crowds. Out of all the fun shows, probably the most memorable was the karaoke show. As The Pride blew down the house with songs like Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing,” the audience sang along as they waved their lit cell phones in the air.

The 2015 concert season began with the Wind Ensemble’s consortium premiere of two new works for wind band: Hosannas by David Maslanka and Luminosity by Pulitzer Prize-winner Joseph Schwantner. These two monumental works were also professionally recorded by the Southern Miss Wind Ensemble for distribution by the NAXOS label in September 2016. The University Bands area hosted a Maslanka residency on campus prior to the premiere. Maslanka’s residency was spent working with all three concert ensembles including Symphonic Winds, who performed Mother Earth for the composer, and an educational outreach to Biloxi High School and their director, alumnus Travis Coakley. Maslanka also worked with the talented young composers we have on the Southern Miss campus in a master class setting.

In February, composer and conductor Frank Ticheli was in residence to work with the bands and as guest conductor of the All-South Honor Band and Wind Ensemble.

Dr. Ticheli created such excitement with the young players from around the southern region, and their performance was truly amazing. During his stay, he was able to spend time working and coaching all three of the University’s concert ensembles. Both the Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Winds performed two of his works for a packed house of students, teachers, alumni and guests.

Several times this year, The Pride sang the alma mater. It was no more poignant to close the All-South Prism concert with them singing. It was a tremendous experience to see the packed house, many of whom are alumni of the University, join The Pride by sing in honor of our University.

There is nothing like the pride of Southern Miss Alumni.

DON’T HOMECOMING OCTOBER 29 M I S S ALUMNI BAND NOVEMBER 5 Featuring Dixie Darling ALumni

Alumnus Robert Freeman is currently director of bands at West Monroe High School in Monroe, La. Considered among the best band programs in Louisiana, the band has appeared in the Inaugural Parade for George Bush in 2005, the Louisiana Governor’s Inaugural in 2007, and multiple concert-band competitions in areas such as Washington, D.C., Atlanta and San Antonio. Most recently, the band accepted an invitation to appear in London’s New Year’s Day Parade in Westminster. The high school has also had many students earn positions in the All State Bands and Orchestra, in which many of them continue to play after matriculating to the university level. The program boasts several music educators and professional musicians among its alumni.

Freeman said his years at Southern Miss were some of the most rewarding years in his life. While there, he was astounded at the quality of the ensembles in all areas and the tremendous individual talent displayed in the School of Music that he considers as something still very unique and special. He served as principal euphonium of the Southern Miss Wind Ensemble and believed the group to be the finest ensemble with which he’s ever been associated. From an expectation of excellence and discipline, to relentless pursuit of great intonation, to passionate musicality, his experiences in that ensemble were life-changing.

Although Freeman’s graduate studies at Southern Miss were in performance, he found himself teaching in public schools after graduation. It was in the public-school setting that he was able to draw upon the wealth of knowledge and experience he gained at The University of Southern Mississippi while studying with some of the finest professionals in the field. He acknowledged his experiences at Southern Miss as being priceless. His advice to students attending or considering Southern Miss is to immerse yourself in all that is happening around you. Attend every musical event possible because there is so much to be learned from listening and enjoy the truly world-class performances given. Never forget the standards of excellence that are set there, so when you go into the world, you can apply those standards in your ensembles. Maintain connections with your colleagues as you will be surrounded by musicians and educators who are doing great things. They will continue to be a great resource of knowledge and advice for the rest of your life.

“Never take for granted the incredible experience Southern Miss offers” he said. “It is simply remarkable the quality of music-

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ever take for granted the incredible experience Southern Miss offers.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

The Southern Miss Band Program is the oldest wind program in the state of Mississippi and is considered the best program for performance and music education majors in the state. The Wind Ensemble and The Pride of Mississippi Marching Band have been selected to perform at national and international venues, including College Band Directors National Association, American Bandmasters Association, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland, and with the Italian Army Band based in Rome. The Wind Ensemble premieres new works from contemporary composers each year, including David Maslanka, Joseph Schwantner and guest performers. All graduate and undergraduate students, both performance and music education majors, have the opportunity to audition for concerto competitions within both the Wind Ensemble and Orchestra.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED:

• Bachelor of Arts in Music • Bachelor of Music - Performance • Bachelor of Music - Jazz Studies •Bachelor of Music Education (Instrumental Licensure) •Minor in Music

“

The University Bands program has a rich tradition of excellence in performance and training the music educators of tomorrow.

With almost 100 years in this program, we have built a network of alumni who are lifelong friends who support one another throughout their careers. There is nothing like meeting an alumnus of the band program while traveling and hearing about the fond memories of their experiences in the ensembles, The Pride or the Dixie Darlings. SMTTT!” -Dr. Catherine Rand

GRADUATE DEGREES

Graduate students in wind conducting will have ample podium time to conduct each of the three major wind bands and smaller chamber ensembles. Each year wind conducting majors have the opportunity to conduct the Instrumental Concerto Competition Winners. Conducting majors also work with more than 300 members of The Pride and basketball pep bands.

Graduate students in performance participate in a wide range of large ensembles, chamber ensembles and master classes with nationally recognized performers and teachers. Similar to undergraduate students, both performance and music education majors have the opportunity to audition for concerto competitions within both the Wind Ensemble and Orchestra.

GRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED:

• Master of Music - Performance, Conducting, Woodwind Performance and Pedagogy • Master of Music Education - Traditional Track, Track II - Licensure, Online • Doctor of Musical Arts - Conducting • Doctor of Musical Arts - Performance and Pedagogy • Doctor of Philosophy - Music Education

For more information, visit www.usm.edu/band.

WELCOME

Dr. Timothy J. Tesh

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF TRUMPET

“Becoming assistant professor of trumpet at The University of Southern Mississippi is an incredible honor! This position represents the next step in what has been an exciting career as an artist and educator. I am thrilled to be joining a world-class faculty and to have the opportunity to work with students in a part of the country with such a rich musical tradition.”

Dr. Colin McKenzie

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF BANDS, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF MUSIC and DIRECTOR OF THE PRIDE OF MISSISSIPPI

“I am incredibly excited for, and humbled by, the opportunity to work with the tremendous students, faculty and staff at The University of Southern Mississippi; alumni of this great University; and community members in Hattiesburg. I am looking forward to working as part of the team of faculty focused on continuing and building upon the tradition of excellence already well established within the University Bands.”

BAND FACULTY

Catherine Ann Rand, D.M.A.—bands, conducting Colin McKenzie, D.M.A.—bands James Standland, D.M.A.—bands

BRASS FACULTY

Jacquelyn Adams, D.M.A.—horn Ben McIlwain, D.M.—trombone Richard Perry, D.M.A.—tuba/euphonium Timothy J. Tesh, D.M.A.—trumpet

WOODWIND FACULTY

For bios and more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/faculty-bios.

Lawrence S. Gwozdz, D.M.A.—saxophone Galit Kaunitz, D.M. —oboe Jackie McIlwain, D.M. —clarinet Danilo Mezzadri, D.M.A.—flute Kim Woolly, D.M.—bassoon

CHORAL ACTIVITIES

Choral Activities has experienced its most prosperous year in decades. The Southern Chorale was chosen by blind audition to perform at two important professional meetings. In November, they were chosen to premiere Canticle of the Sun by Estonian composer Tõnu Kõrvits at the National Collegiate Choral Directors Convention in Portland, Ore. In spring of 2016, they appeared by blind audition at the Southern Division American Choral Directors Convention in Chattanooga.

Later in that same month, the Chorale was invited to present a solo appearance at Gotham Sings!, an event that features collegiate choirs in Carnegie Hall.

In addition to these nationally visible appearances, the Hattiesburg Choral Union will present their third U.S. premiere in three consecutive springs. Richard Burchard, from Louisville, Ky., was present for the presentation of his new Seven Last Words in April at our campus. In 2014, the Southern Miss Symphony Chorus presented the U.S. premiere of Kreek’s Notebook, by Tõnu Kõrvits, followed by the commissioning and premiere of Mack Wilberg’s The Prodigal in 2015.

The choral program continues to be a leader in national recruiting of graduate conductors, and placement of those conductors, into regional and national choral positions. Since 2005, over 50 conductors have graduated and found jobs throughout the United States, almost half in college teaching positions.

Touring is a historical legacy of college choirs. Since 2003, the choirs have consistently been on the road, both nationally and internationally. The choral area has embarked on trips to Austria, the Czech Republic, Italy, England, France, Jamaica, Romania, Hungary, Russia and Estonia. Our domestic destinations have included Los Angeles, Portland, Chicago, New York, Memphis, Indianapolis, St. Louis, Knoxville, Chattanooga and many other more regional stops. Next year, the Chorale will once again be touring Europe, possibly including Scandinavia and the Baltics.

Finally, Choral Activities will host a second Alumni reunion during Gregory Fuller’s tenure. The date will correspond to Homecoming in the fall of 2016. Singers from all eras will be invited back for a weekend of catching up and singing. Look for information as it becomes available.

Gregory Fuller is finishing his 16th year as choral director, a similar tenure to David Foltz who was at Southern Miss from 1960-76. One of Fuller’s most notable achievements is the creation of the Southern Invitational Choral Conference, which now hosts over 700 participants every September on the Hattiesburg campus.

Three national clinicians are invited to work with regional choral teachers, high school singers and community college singers. It has become one of the most important recruiting events in the School of Music.

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hat students really need are the skil s to create their dream job

Alumnus Jonathan Rodgers is assistant professor of choral music at Lee University in Cleveland, Tenn.—a position he has held since August of 2013. Rodgers was hired to teach courses in church music, conducting and piano. However, in August of 2014, he became conductor of the Ladies of Lee, the premier women’s choir of the university, and assumed leadership of the choral studies program. As part of his responsibilities, Rodgers also conducts Choral Union, the university’s choir devoted to the performance of choral/orchestral works, and teaches courses in choral conducting, rehearsal techniques and literature.

Rodgers has led honor choirs at Lee and in Tennessee and Louisiana.

Furthermore, he has presented interest sessions for state music educator conferences and the national conference for ACDA. Additionally, he has collaborated several times with Dr. Gregory Fuller on choral commissions of advanced a cappella choral arrangements of pop songs. Most recently, Rodgers completed Phil Collins’ Take Me Home, which was performed by the Southern Chorale at the Southern Division Conference of the American Choral Director’s Association in Chattanooga (March) and at Carnegie Hall (April). As a published composer, his works have been published through Walton Music, Colla Voce and Pavane.

For Rodgers, transitioning from doctoral work at Southern Miss to Lee was an adjustment—moving from the role of student to teacher. But his time at Southern Miss prepared him for a future as a college choral teacher and conductor. The rigorous rehearsal and performance schedule of highly advanced music, coupled with frequent events for recruitment and program development, brought to reality the ins and outs of managing an active, flourishing choral program. In addition, opportunities to travel and network with significant individuals through Southern Miss Choral Activities trips have been invaluable and provided experiences that have impacted him forever.

Of these trips, perhaps some of his favorite memories include performing on stage at Carnegie Hall (premiere of Edwin Penhorwood’s An American Requiem); Chamber Singers tour to Italy, where he sang at St. Mark’s in Venice; the graduate staff trip to Estonia, where he met Arvo Pärt and Veljo Tormis and discovered his dissertation topic; accompanying for and chauffeuring Mack Wilberg (Mormon Tabernacle Choir Director); the numerous regional tours; directing the Southern Miss Women’s Choir; the Choral Activities office conversations; and the fond memories of the tuning forks and sight-singing exercises.

“Looking back, the most enriching experiences have been those that weren’t ‘required’ for graduation but those opportunities that were ‘in addition’ to the requirements for the degree,” he noted. “Students need to soak up as much music as possible and go to concerts of instrumental ensembles, chamber groups, solo performers, etc. They need to learn everything they can and not expect to get their dream job when they graduate. What students really need are the skills to create their dream job and do it in a way that builds consensus and community and does not alienate those around them.”

“I’m so thankful for my time at USM because I got to witness this firsthand and learn from incredible teachers and mentors like Drs. Fuller and Flanery. They are living examples of how to grow and develop a successful program. I’m indebted to them for their investment in my life, education and career.”

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

Southern Miss Choral Activities has become a regional leader in choral music excellence. From the placement of outstanding teachers, to exceptional performances locally, nationally and beyond, Southern Miss Choral Activities is making a difference and adding to the quality of life in many communities. For undergraduates, we offer degrees in music education, vocal performance, music history, a Bachelor of Arts with an emphasis in voice and Bachelor of Science in entertainment industry. Choral Service Awards are available for majors and non-majors singing in major choral ensembles.

Our mission includes orchestral opportunities and collaborative efforts, such as a recent church music conference, featuring Mack Wilberg. The Southern Invitational Choral Conference now hosts more than 700 participants each year. The Southern Experience Summer Show Choir Camp is growing in reputation as one of the most popular educational camps in the nation.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED:

• Bachelor of Arts in Music • Bachelor of Music - Performance • Bachelor of Music Education (Choral Licensure) • Minor in Music

“

We enjoyed an amazing year of national visibility that created learning opportunities and new connections for the future of our students. Singing at national venues in front of professional audiences, including NCCO in Portland, ACDA in Chattanooga and Carnegie Hall in New York City, Choral Activities is alive and well with even more great plans for the future.”

-Dr. Gregory Fuller

GRADUATE DEGREES

Southern Miss offers the Master of Music (MM) and Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degrees in choral conducting. Job placement in full-time academic and sacred settings is over 95 percent. Over the last decade, 20 graduates have been placed in collegiate teaching positions. In those same 10 years, students have come to Southern Miss for graduate study in choral conducting from more than 30 different institutions in higher education.

Assistantships, partial assistantships, out-of-state waivers, and service awards/ scholarships are available on a competitive basis to students that are accepted to the program. In addition, students pursuing the MMEd and PhD with a choral emphasis, the MM and DMA in piano or voice and the MM theory students are also considered for those awards if active in the choral program. Podium time is deemed important for all MM and DMA students and is achieved with multiple ensembles. The Chamber Singers is a fully dedicated ensemble for graduate conductors.

Customized travel seminars are a regular part of the agenda for graduate choral conductors at Southern Miss. Recent interaction includes the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir (EPCC) in Tallinn, faculty members at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki (Finland), the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Choir School at Madeleine Cathedral in Salt Lake City, the Latvian Radio Choir in Riga, and the Saint Petersburg Chamber Choir (Russia). In addition, the conducting studio attended Laulupidu (Five-year Estonian Song Celebration) in 2014, also in Tallinn. Workshops have focused on conductors, composers, choral singers, repertoire, research, culture and organizational administration. Multiple face-to-face meetings have occurred with Arvo Pärt, Tõnu Kõrvits, Daniel Reuss, members of the EPCC, Erkki-Sven Tüür, Tõnu Kaljuste, Länsiö Tapani, Matti Höykki, Kaspars Putninš, Galina Grigorjeva, Veljo Tormis, Aarne Saluveer, Mack Wilberg, Gregory Glenn, members of the St. Petersburg Chamber Choir and Nicolai Kornev.

GRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED:

• Master of Music - Performance, Conducting • Master of Music Education - Traditional Track, Track II - Licensure, Online • Doctor of Musical Arts - Conducting • Doctor of Musical Arts - Performance and Pedagogy • Doctor of Philosophy - Music Education

For more information, visit www.usm.edu/choirs.

VOICE STUDIES

The University of Southern Mississippi offers one of the most comprehensive vocal music programs in the Southeast. In addition to the major ensembles offered by Choral Activities, students at Southern Miss have the opportunity to be involved in the Southern Opera and Musical Theater Company.

Since 1948, The University of Southern Mississippi Opera, now known as the Southern Opera and Music Theatre Co. (SOMTC), has risen to a program of excellence in the area of music stage production. As a representative ensemble of the University, the SOMTC has performed both operas and musicals each year, some of which feature guest artists. In recent seasons, the SOMTC has presented operas including Carmen, Così fan tutte and La Boheme, as well as musicals like West Side Story, Sweeney Todd and Mary Poppins.

Undergraduate students come from all over the U.S. and overseas to study music at Southern Miss. The SOMTC has a very high percentage of members who are awarded scholarships. Besides being part of this renowned ensemble, undergraduate voice majors receive regular coachings and lessons with our experienced and dedicated faculty. The program offers a vast number of opportunities for undergraduate students to develop their musical abilities and get the most valuable college experience they can have.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED:

• Bachelor of Arts in Music • Bachelor of Music - Performance •Bachelor of Music Education (Choral Licensure) • Minor in Music

GRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED:

• Master of Music - Performance, Conducting • Master of Music Education - Traditional Track, Track II - Licensure, Online • Doctor of Musical Arts - Conducting • Doctor of Musical Arts - Performance and Pedagogy • Doctor of Philosophy - Music Education

For more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/voice or www.usm.edu/opera.

VOICE/CHORAL FACULTY

Kimberley M. Davis, D.M.A.—voice J. Taylor Hightower, D.M.—voice Maryann Kyle, D.M.A.—voice, opera Jonathan Yarrington, D.M.A.—voice Gregory A. Fuller, Ph.D.—choral activities Jonathan Kilgore, D.M.A.—choral activities For bios and more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/faculty-bios.

“

As a voice teacher, I recognize that teaching my students vocal technique and artistry is but one aspect of my job. The second, and one of greater importance, is mentoring them in the building of their musical careers. A career as a performer and teacher is one of the most exciting and fulfilling but also one of the most difficult.

Strong mentorship is a key to their success. Our students are exposed to great music and world-class guest artists with whom they often work side by side. The most successful performers learn by doing, so our students are actively performing on stage, in opera and musical theatre productions, at Southern Miss and around the region.”

-Dr. Maryann Kyle

SOUTHERN OPERA AND MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY

The Southern Opera and Musical Theatre Company began the 2015-16 season with an educational outreach production of the children’s fairytale opera Hansel and Gretel by Engelbert Humperdinck. In collaboration with the Hattiesburg Arts Council and On Your Toes dance studio, Southern Miss opera students performed at the historic Saenger Theatre in downtown Hattiesburg for over 4,000 area school children.

In late October, the venerable company presented multiple performances of Bernstein’s Tony and Academy Award-winning musical West Side Story—one of the most exciting and iconic shows in the history of American Broadway musical theatre—at the Mannoni Performing Arts Center.

The season concluded in the spring with multiple performances of Georges Bizet’s Carmen, one of the most popular operas in the world. Our partnership with Mississippi Opera allowed students to work one-on-one in coaching sessions and on stage with professional international artists—mezzo-soprano Kirstin Chávez, tenor Richard Troxell, and baritone Michael Nansel. Kirstin Chávez spent multiple weeks as our resident artist, coaching Southern Miss opera students in individual vocal and acting sessions. Performeing twice in February at Mannoni Performing Arts Center in Hattiesburg, our talented students then collaborated with Mississippi Opera in a professional production at Thalia Mara Hall in Jackson, Ms., to close out our season in April.

“I am constantly remembering valuable things I learned at Southern Miss,” said alumna Hilary Ginther. From her first operatic performing experience as Second Lady in Mozart’s The Magic Flute, to Maria in West Side Story and the title role in Carmen, Ginther found her career on the stage. Currently living in Manhattan with her husband, she was a Young Artist at Florida Grand Opera in Miami, where she recently sang Rosina in Rossini’s The Barber of Seville; covered the role of Adalgisa in Bellini’s Norma; sang the role of Vlasta; and covered Liese in Weinberg’s The Passenger, which is based on a Polish radio play by concentration camp survivor Zofia Posmysz. All these experiences are helping her move from the “young artist” stage of her career and preparing her for a full-time career as a Mainstage artist.

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am constantly remembering valuable things I learned at Southern Miss.

The Southern Opera and Musical Theatre Company’s partnership with Mississippi Opera was a “huge opportunity” for Ginther. “Working alongside professional singers gave me an early insight on how the professional business worked, not just in a scholastic setting,” she said. “I didn’t know it at the time, but I was getting experience at Southern Miss as an undergraduate that most singers don’t get until they’ve gone through school and started working as an apprentice at professional opera companies.”

She knew that if she wanted to have a career in opera, she needed to be learning, studying and playing always. “I went from being the big fish at USM to a tiny guppy in the huge pond that is the University of Cincinnati, CollegeConservatory of Music for my master’s degree. There were so many talented singers, always fighting for practice rooms and opportunities, and it really lit a fire in me.”

She encourages young singers to make opportunities for themselves, to work hard, be patient, be professional, be respectful and always push themselves outside of their comfort zones.

“There are many more disappointments in this career than there are victories,” she continued. “It’s about how you react to the disappointments, what you learn from them and adding on another layer of thick skin. You will need it!

However, when the victories come your way, soak them up and remember them like moments that stand still in time. They are the reward for all of the hard work and callused skin you will have built up, and they are so worth it.”

ORCHESTRAL ACTIVITIES

The Symphony Orchestra’s 96th season began in October 2015, full of premieres and well-known celebrities. “New Acquaintances and Old Friends” included two world premieres. Nostalgic Dances for Piano and Orchestra by Luigi Zaninelli reminded the audience of the great dance era of the early 20th century with its charming and beautiful tunes like one might have heard in a café in days gone by. On the same program, in her Mississippi debut, Southern Miss’ horn professor Dr. Jacqueline Adams performed the premiere of “Radiant Dances for Horn and String Orchestra” by James Naigus. Dr. Adams is an absolutely outstanding player. Our audience was thrilled to hear her play not only as a guest artist, but knowing that she is on our faculty and in our community. As for our “old friends,” we performed “Brahms’ Symphony No. 1 in C minor”—a staple in the orchestral repertoire that the audience was in awe to hear the students play this challenging and rewarding music.

In November, “Sonic Blast” featured Dmitri Shostakovich’s incredibly powerful “Symphony No. 5 in D minor,” a fantastic work composed in 1937. Providing literal inspiration for the title of this concert, the orchestra performed the Mississippi premiere of John Stevens’ “Grand Concerto for 4 Tubas”.

In early December, more than 500 musicians from the Southern Miss Symphony Orchestra, the Southern Chorale, Concert Choir, Southern Miss Men, Women’s Choir, Spirit of Southern, the Southern BelleTones, the Hattiesburg Choral Union, and local choral groups from Sumrall, Forrest County Agricultural and Pearl River Central High Schools presented the University’s annual gift to the community: the Holiday Choral Spectacular at Main Street Baptist Church under the direction of Drs. Gregory Fuller, Lauren Calisto-Fowler and Webb Parker. This joyous celebration of holiday favorites always kicks off Hattiesburg’s holiday season with great fanfare.

In February, the orchestra collaborated in a production of George Bizet’s famous opera Carmen with Southern Opera and Musical Theatre Company.

Then, Anthony McGill, principal clarinetist of the New York Philharmonic, joined the symphony under the direction of Dr. Michael Miles to perform Nielson’s “Clarinet Concerto, Op. 57,” along with Stravinsky’s suite from Pulcinella, Copland’s Quiet City, and Rossini’s overture to The Barber of Seville on a program entitled, “Stages of Change.”

Three winners of the annual William T. Gower Concerto Scholarship Competition performed as “Future Stars” at Main Street Baptist Church in April. Thiago Bottega (flute) performed “Poem for Flute and Orchestra” by Charles Griffes, Melanie Ferrabone (bassoon) performed a bassoon concerto

by Antonio Vivaldi, and Francisco Ramos (horn) performed “Concerto for Horn and Orchestra in Bb major, Op. 91” by Reinhold Glière. The second half of this annual concert included a world premiere of Richard Burchard’s The Seven Last Words based on “The Seven Last Words of Christ.” This work was newly commissioned by Dr. Fuller for Southern Miss Choral Activities.

One of our most memorable events of this season was the return of Sir James and Lady Jeanne Galway in a March concert simply called “The Galway’s Return.” In their third appearance in Mississippi, all of which have been with the Symphony Orchestra at The University of Southern Mississippi, Sir James Galway performed Mercadante’s “Flute Concerto in E minor, Op. 57,” Overton’s Minuet and Finale from The Magic Flutes, and a host of spectacular encore pieces.

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t’s not just a lesson for real life-it’s a whole school itself.

It’s been quite a few years since alumnus Luis Mascaro left The University of Southern Mississippi and started working on various musical projects. He lives and works as a freelance musician in Los Angeles, Calif. He has been building a reputation as a “creative” violinist, incorporating different musical elements that range from jazz, world-music, rock, funk, to his performing. He is currently touring with Mexican pop diva Gloria Trevi, performing all over the Americas, live and on TV. He also released his first EP in 2015 with his Brazilian-fusion band Off to Farofa, touring the Midwest and performing their own music.

At Southern Miss, Mascaro had the opportunity to experience music in a much broader way: he performed chamber music; classical concerts with some of the biggest names in classical music, including Joshua Bell and James Galway; fully produced operas and musicals; jazz concerts with the Southern Miss jazz sextet; and fully produced pops performances with some of the greatest artists of our time.

This kind of experience, from preparing the music to observing and participating in the whole production, is not just a lesson for real life-it’s a whole school itself.

His experiences and fondest moments from Southern Miss will stay with him forever. His favorite memory was when he performed with Patti Labelle, Patti Austin, Dionne Warwick and some of the best musicians in the industry. Observing the production, staging, sound, etc., and being able to talk with the musicians and being part of it all, inspired and helped him to pave his way in what he does today.

He offers this piece of advice to current and future students: “Never limit yourself to only doing the things that are asked to you; be curious,

We are thrilled to announce that not one, but two Southern Miss string players have received 2016 MPower Grants. Violinist Rainel Joubert and alumna bassist Patricia Silva were both awarded funds to help continue their performing career.

The MPower Artist Grants were launched to empower alumni of the Sphinx Competition, Sphinx Symphony, Sphinx Virtuosi, Sphinx Performance Academy and Sphinx Medals of Excellence to achieve their career objectives in classical music through granting competitive scholarships. Grants are based upon the scope, need and nature of each competitive application.

Grants may begin at $1,000 with an average award amount of $25,000. Joubert received $11,000 to purchase a new violin and Silva received $30,000 to partially fund a new bass.

During the last few decades, the Symphony Orchestra has risen to its present place as one of the top student orchestras in the country. As a representative ensemble of the University, the ensemble performs a complete season of eight concerts each year, some of which feature internationally acclaimed artists. In recent seasons, the venerable organization has performed with Itzhak Perlman, Yo-Yo Ma, Joshua Bell, Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, Edgar Meyer, François Rabbath and many other international musical celebrities.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

Undergraduate students come from all over the U.S. and overseas to study music at Southern Miss, making the orchestra one of the biggest international communities on campus. The Symphony Orchestra has a large number of scholarships available, and a very high percentage of orchestra members are awarded scholarships. Besides being part of this renowned ensemble, undergraduate string students form chamber groups and receive regular coaching and lessons with our experienced and dedicated faculty. The Symphony Orchestra offers a vast number of opportunities for undergraduate students to develop their musical abilities and get the most valuable college experience they can have.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED:

• Bachelor of Arts in Music • Bachelor of Music - Performance • Bachelor of Music - Jazz Studies • Bachelor of Music Education (Instrumental Licensure) • Minor in Music

“

The Symphony Orchestra has helped change the lives of numerous students in many ways. Our orchestral musicians come from all over the world to pursue graduate and undergraduate degrees. Many pursue music degrees while working on other degrees, such as engineering, education and business. While musical excellence is always at the forefront of our priorities, helping students improve their future is, without question, our most important work.”

-Dr. Jay Dean

GRADUATE DEGREES

Graduate students who play in the Symphony Orchestra not only share the stage with great artists, but also receive private lessons, form chamber music groups and receive regular coaching as part of the degree program. Also, graduate students get experience in teaching, coaching and promoting music through the educational outreach programs. The Symphony Orchestra has many scholarships and graduate assistantships available. A large number of graduate students hold scholarships up to full tuition or assistantships, including full-tuition waivers plus monthly stipends. Topquality teaching, performance opportunities and financial aid make Southern Miss a great environment for graduate students to further their musical knowledge and get the experience needed for the future.

GRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED:

• Master of Music - Performance, Conducting, Woodwind Performance and Pedagogy • Master of Music Education - Traditional Track, Track II - Licensure, Online • Doctor of Musical Arts - Conducting • Doctor of Musical Arts - Performance and Pedagogy • Doctor of Philosophy - Music Education

For more information, visit www.usm.edu/symphony.

CLASSICAL GUITAR STUDIO

The Classical Guitar Studio at Southern Miss is one of the leading guitar departments in the region, housed within one of the leading schools of music in the region. It is headed by nationally recognized concert artist and educator Dr. Nicholas Ciraldo and boasts a large number of talented students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students of Dr. Ciraldo have gone on to pursue graduate degrees at the New England Conservatory, the Manhattan School of Music, Arizona State University and the University of Texas (Austin) among others. Students have also graduated cum laude and won teaching positions at various institutions around the country.

The Classical Guitar Studio focuses on creating and developing the “whole guitarist” – someone with solid technique, well-trained musicianship, keen sight-reading ability, excellent aural skills, practical foundations in teaching, well-versed knowledge of the major repertoire, and realistic perspectives on the field. It also provides a positive approach to competition, collegiality, careers and performance confidence.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED: • Bachelor of Arts in Music • Bachelor of Music - Performance • Bachelor of Music - Jazz Studies • Bachelor of Music Education (Instrumental or Choral Licensure)

GRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED: • Master of Music - Performance • Master of Music Education • Doctor of Musical Arts Performance and Pedagogy

For more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/guitar.

STRING/ORCHESTRA FACULTY Jay Dean, D.M.A.—orchestra Michael A. Miles, D.M.A. —orchestra Nicholas Ciraldo, D.M.A.—classical guitar Hsiaopei Lee, D.M.A.—viola Marcos Machado, D.M.A.—bass Stephen Redfield, D.M.A.—violin Alexander Russakovsky, D.M.A.—cello For bios and more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/faculty-bios.

“

In the Violin Studio, performing is one of our most important activities. Opportunities include weekly departmental and general recitals and Violin Studio recitals - the regular pre-jury exam concerts as well as other annual concerts. Several masterclasses, per semester, offer violinists more chances to play and to learn from world-renowned artists. Students learn to set goals, meet standards and deal with nerves while honing important skills. We also learn by listening to each other and providing feedback.”

-Dr. Stephen Redfield

Alumnus Carlos Castilla teaches guitar at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, N.C., and theory at University of North Carolina at Pembroke.

He also manages a very successful private guitar studio and continues to perform regionally, nationally and internationally as a soloist and as member of Duo Guitiano with his wife, Southern Miss alumna and pianist, Amanda Virelles.

Castilla’s time at Southern Miss was key to gathering many of the skills that allowed him to manage his multifaceted career. While at school, he had the opportunity to teach applied guitar and guitar class as a graduate assistant for Dr. Ciraldo’s studio and the Latin Jazz combo for Mr. Panella’s program.

The vast variety of musicians and quality of teachers at Southern Miss made it possible for Castilla to play with all sorts of ensembles. Dr. Dean’s orchestra program regularly needed a guitar player capable enough to perform as a pit musician.

With the Southern Miss Symphony Orchestra, Castilla had the opportunity to hone his skills as an ensemble player, which would allow him, later, to land many gigs, including musical theatre shows.

Besides the camaraderie that one experiences at Southern Miss, among so many talented and hard-working students, the best memories that Castilla have of his time at Southern Miss come from his teachers: Dr. Ciraldo’s professionalism, patience, inspiring tone and playing; Dr. Dean’s incredible entrepreneurialism; Drs. Goertzen and Hafer’s perspective, knowledge and organization; Mr. Panella’s musicianship and kindness; Dr. Brumbeloe’s particular way to teach you complex things in a relaxed way; and Dr. Machado’s playing energy and friendship. Castilla’s advice to current and future students would be to seize every second at The University of Southern Mississippi; keep an excellent relationship with your teachers and advisors; participate in as many ensembles as humanly possible; prepare your material proactively; if you are a performer, get a minor in theory or history as well; and always keep an eye on the job market.

Coming to the United States was a learning experience from the very first day for alumna Amanda Virelles. One of the first things she had to learn was to navigate the intricate subtleties of the American educational system, so far removed from the Cuban/Russian system, where she was brought up. At Southern Miss, she had amazing advisors who guided her throughout the masters and doctoral studies. At the same time, having the opportunity to observe her professors’ involvement in their students’ success helped prepare her for her future work as an instructor and advisor at institutions of higher education in Tennessee and, currently, North Carolina.

Her favorite memories from Southern Miss include meeting with so many students from all parts of the world. She had classmates from all around the U.S., South and Central America, Europe, Asia, as well as wonderful professors with whom she still remains in contact and that contributed to her development as an artist and educator. After attending her first football game, she began to understand the culture and passion for the game, marching band, halftime show and the excitement of Homecoming week. She started to learn about the culture and music of the South and the tradition of New Orleans’ Mardi Gras. She remembers how the community came together after the horrifying time following Hurricane Katrina in 2005. She learned about the job market and received excellent training while working as a pianist and accompanist with the symphony and opera. She enjoyed playing as a soloist with the symphony, under the direction of Dr. Jay Dean, as a winner of the William T. Gower Concerto Competition.

“Take advantage of the performing opportunities the program offers to play as much as you can,” she advises. “The job market is very competitive, so it is never too early to start with the search of your dream job.”

PIANO FACULTY

Jacob Coleman, D.M.A.—collaborative pianist Ellen Price Elder, D.M.A.—piano Joohae Kim, D.M.A.—collaborative pianist Elizabeth Moak, D.M.A.—piano Zhaolei Xie, M.M. —piano For bios and more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/faculty-bios.

WELCOME Dr. Jacob Coleman

INSTRUCTOR OF MUSIC IN COLLABORATIVE PIANO AND PROFESSIONAL-IN-RESIDENCE

“I am honored to join the faculty of the USM School of Music.

I look forward to sharing my experience and passion for collaborative piano while exploring new collaborative possibilities at a school with such a rich musical heritage.”

KEYBOARD STUDIES

The piano program aims to develop the student’s abilities as a pianist and musician and to prepare and qualify the student for either a career as an independent piano instructor or for graduate study in music, leading to a possible college teaching position. Specific objectives include technical development at the keyboard; increasing the student’s knowledge of repertoire (both in quantity and scope); developing interpretive abilities in a wide variety of styles; increasing familiarity with the literature of the keyboard; providing opportunities to perform, and developing sight-reading and memorizing abilities, as well as “functional” piano skills.

As a piano student at Southern Miss, you will work closely with our dedicated faculty members and enjoy ample performance opportunities, including solo, chamber music and collaborative experience. Our students can also participate in the School of Music Concerto Competition, leading to a performance with the Symphony Orchestra or Wind Ensemble if selected as winner.

Our students can also gain valuable teaching experience by participating in our community music program, the Southern Miss Piano Institute (SMPI). Our mission is to offer a quality education in piano to pre-college students and adults in the community. Our faculty is dedicated to help students reach their highest potential and to equip them with musicianship skills that can be applied to all areas of music. All students enrolled in SMPI will receive private instruction, as well as performance opportunities in institute recitals and in local, state and regional festivals and other competitive events.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED: • Bachelor of Arts in Music • Bachelor of Music - Performance • Bachelor of Music Education (Licensure) • Minor in Music

GRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED:

• Master of Music - Piano Performance • Master of Music - Performance - Collaborative Piano • Master of Music Education • Doctor of Musical Arts - Piano Performance and Pedagogy KAWAI EPIC INSTITUTION

ELITE PERFORMING INSTRUMENT COLLECTION

For more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/keyboard/about.

MUSIC EDUCATION

Getting a music education degree at Southern Miss has proven to be a rewarding and exciting experience for thousands of graduates over the many years of the program’s existence.

The current music education program at Southern Miss looks at the present and exciting future of the music education field in order to offer not only a strong program, but one that garners national and international attention.

Joined by conductors of some of the finest university ensembles in the world, and a full faculty providing private lessons on all instruments and voice, the music education faculty represents a deep and diverse background of teaching experiences, professional appointments and published research. A brand new distance-learning room with state-of-the-art equipment, coupled with access to standard and newly emerging tools for successful teaching, helps make the music education programs at Southern Miss unique, comprehensive and noteworthy.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED:

• Bachelor of Music Education - Choral and Instrumental (Licensure) Successful completion of this degree certifies graduates to teach in schools as band directors, choir directors, orchestra directors, elementary music teachers, etc.

GRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED: • Master of Music Education

For all those with an undergraduate degree in music education who wish to further their education in music education

• Master of Music Education (Track II - Licensure)

For all those without an undergraduate degree in music education who wish to seek teaching certification in music education

• Master of Music Education (Online)

For those seeking a master’s degree in music education and wish to do so online, our MME program is one of the best financial online degree bargains in music education.

Degree completion can be accomplished in as little as one calendar year.

• Ph.D. in Music Education

The purpose of the terminal degree in music education is to provide students with knowledge and skills to become leaders in the field of music education and to advance the culture of music teaching and learning forward.

For more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/music-education.

MUSIC EDUCATION FACULTY

Anita Davis, Ph.D.—music education Steven R. Moser, Ph.D.—conducting/music education Webb Parker, Ph.D.—music education Amanda Schlegel, Ph.D.—music education Mark Waymire, Ph.D.—music education For bios and more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/faculty-bios.

“

While I enjoy all courses I teach, I am extremely fond of MED 311, Elementary Methods. The music education faculty has worked hard to create a culture with our education majors –that while they each have areas of specialty– we are all musicians working to support and improve music education in all regards.

This philosophy is certainly made evident in elementary methods, in that both choral and instrumental majors take the course together. We all get to be kids again! We sing and dance and play all sorts of fun instruments. We talk deeply and passionately about many topics that apply to all levels of music teaching, but specifically, in regards to the wonderful opportunities we have with young, creative, open-minded and wildly curious elementary music students.”

-Dr. Mark D. Waymire

Alumnus Eric Willoughby is currently in his eighth year as director of bands at Woodland High School in Cartersville, Ga., and is in his 21st year of teaching overall. Having received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia, he immediately went into teaching and taught for over 15 years before starting his graduate studies. For him, once he began teaching high school in 1995, going to graduate school never seemed possible. He and his wife, Rebecca, started their family in 1998 and now have three beautiful children, Sarah (18), Stephen (15) and Hannah (9). It was not until his children were older that Mr. Willoughby began considering an online program for a graduate degree in music education.

When searching for an online graduate program, The University of Southern Mississippi was at the top of his list. He comments that a combination of factors led to his decision, including: history of having a top music education program, affordability, positive interactions with initial contacts at Southern Miss regarding the program, and the overall flexibility of course offerings and summer sessions that allowed the program to be tailored to his needs.

Wiloughby’s favorite part of the experience was being surprised at how personal it felt, even when using technology as the main form of communication. Drs. Schlegel and Waymire were integral in making his overall experience positive and rewarding.

“Many of the classes had projects that allowed me to use my classroom as a laboratory for developing and honing skills and methods,” he said.

“It not only made me a better teacher, but also directly benefited my students.”

M

The high expectations from professors, and their unique ability to recognize that each member of the class brought different levels of skill and experience to the learning environment, made him feel challenged, but also a sense of respect and acknowledgment for his years of experience in the field.

any of the classes had projects that allowed me to use my classroom as a laboratory.

His advice for current or potential students is to make the very best of their experience while studying at The University of Southern Mississippi. Specifically, for online students, making the most of their experience requires a commitment to independent learning, but also a willingness to reach out and take advantage of the helpful faculty that truly want you to become the best in your field. He has a deep appreciation for his opportunity to study at Southern Miss, and he regularly recommends colleagues to consider the institution as an outstanding option for pursuing their graduate studies.

JAZZ STUDIES

The jazz studies program has a long tradition at Southern Miss, spanning almost 50 years, and offers both talented majors and non-majors the opportunity to be creatively engaged in learning and performing this uniquely American art form. The jazz program is located in our newly-renovated facility in the Fine Arts Building, which includes our large rehearsal hall, combo rehearsal space and library and teaching studios. Jazz performance opportunities include 20-piece big bands and a variety of combos, which can include nontraditional instrumentation. Students are encouraged to explore both the great American songbook of jazz standards, as well as create their own compositions and arrangements. Course offerings include four semesters of jazz improvisation, jazz arranging and composition, jazz history, jazz band methods, as well as the previously mentioned ensembles. Jazz courses are open to interested non-majors with instructor approval.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE OFFERED: • Bachelor of Music - Jazz Studies

JAZZ STUDIES FACULTY

“

Lawrence M. Panella, M.M.—jazz studies For bios and more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/faculty-bios.

The jazz studies program is not just about jazz. It’s about teaching students to be creative musicians. Our students interact with one another in a variety of settings and form groups and expand upon what they have learned. I feel fortunate to observe those “Eureka!” moments and watch the excitement build. I also enjoy exposing them to great music by composers and arrangers, such as Thad Jones, Jim McNeely, Bob Brookmeyer, Bob Mintzer, John Clayton Jr. and many more. Each year is its own journey into music they’ve never played before.”

For more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/jazz-studies-program

-Larry Panella

Alumnus Stephen Taylor received his undergraduate degree in jazz studies from The University of Southern Mississippi, studying percussion under Dr. John Wooton and jazz under Professor Larry Panella. Professor Panella told Stephen something that has stuck with him throughout his entire career. “In my second year at Southern Miss, I had an opportunity to go audition for a full-time position as house drummer for a band in New Orleans. I remember, before I left for the audition, Mr. Panella saw me in the hall. He said that he had heard about my audition opportunity and that I should go do it. Then, he said something that I’ve always remembered. He said, ‘Don’t you let those jazzers talk down to you because you’re taking a pop gig. You’ll be playing music for a living, and most of them will be working at McDonald’s flipping burgers.’” Stephen has remembered this advice and applied it to various situations in his music career, always remembering that just because the path isn’t ‘popular’ doesn’t mean it’s not a good one.

After returning to Southern Miss and finishing his undergraduate degree, Stephen moved to Nashville, Tenn., to pursue a freelance career. He has played and toured with independent and major label artists, including Danielle Peck (Big Machine Records), Jason Jones(Warner Music), Meshach Jackson and many others.

In late 2008, Stephen began playing with an original project, Lovers and Liars. They signed with Universal Records between 2010 and 2011, had several songs featured on MTV, and had the opportunity to share the stage with Hoobastank, Finger Eleven, Civil Twilight, Candlebox, Hurt, Cavo, Hinder, Fuel, Hawthorne Heights, Red, Thriving Ivory and more.

In 2009, Stephen began posting drum lessons to his YouTube channel. Over the course of time, it blossomed into a full-time online teaching career.

Stephen is the founder and owner of StephensDrumShed.com, as well as the creator of the Drum Better Daily system.

The website is membership-based and offers a way to learn the drums online in an organized and goal-oriented fashion.

He has a passionate focus to bring online drum education to drummers around the world. In addition to teaching on his own website, Stephen is a bi-weekly satellite instructor for Drumeo.com and a regular featured online instructor for VicFirth.com. Stephen has written three drum method books and also offers downloadable video drum lesson packs and individual lessons on his website.

Past students, and their music, have been featured on MTV, NBC, the Grammies, VH1, The Real World and the Dove Awards and several have won various college scholarships. In addition, Stephen was part of a feature article in the October 2013 issue of DRUM! Magazine entitled, “The Drum Stars of You Tube.”

J

ust because the path isn’t ‘popular’ doesn’t mean it’s not a good one.

“I truly received a world-class education at Southern Miss. What I learned there helped shape me into the musician and teacher I am today. Every day that I teach I am reminded of the quality instructors I had the privilege to study under. The professors gave me the knowledge I needed, as well as the direction, guidance, and encouragement to pursue my dreams, no matter how out-of-the-ordinary they may be. Some of my fondest memories are of the late night practice sessions, hanging with friends and sharing ideas.

To this day, I tell my students not to pick a school based on its awards and accolades. I tell them to look at the quality of instructors that make up their departments. Look at whom they will be studying under. Let that be the guiding principle when deciding on a school.”

PERCUSSION STUDIES

The Percussion Studio at Southern Miss has earned an excellent national and international reputation, performing at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention and several national and international percussion festivals. The Drum Line and Percussion Ensemble, with percussionist Ney Rosauro, were featured on the Vic Firth website this year as featured artists. The Steel Pan Orchestra is one of the elite steel pan programs in the country and has recorded and/ or performed with the likes of Andy Narell, Robert Greenidge and Ray Holman. Percussion students can also perform in the Samba Band, Percussion Jazz Combo and Latin Lab (Salsa Band). Guest artists frequently give performances and clinics on various percussion instruments. The facilities include a percussion room, steel band room, drum set lab, three teaching studios and seven additional practice rooms, all designated for percussion practice.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED: • Bachelor of Arts in Music • Bachelor of Music - Performance • Bachelor of Music Education (Instrumental Licensure)

GRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED:

• Master of Music - Percussion Performance

and Pedagogy • Master of Music Education • Doctor of Musical Arts Performance and Pedagogy

“

We try to expose our students to many great musicians to learn different methods, philosophies, practices and cultures. Their influences on our students is immeasurable.

Tony Miceli and Ricky Sebastian, respectively, teach adjunct vibraphone and drum set lessons for us; and this past year we have had several guest artists and clinicians, including Horacio “El Negro” Hernandez, Andy Narell, Bill Summers, Oscar Albrieu, Andy Harnsberger, Gregg Bissonette and several others.”

-Dr. John Wooton

PERCUSSION STUDIES FACULTY John Wooton, D.M.A.—percussion studies For bios and more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/faculty-bios.

For more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/percussion.

MUSIC HISTORY

The B.M. and M.M. programs in music history and literature at Southern Miss offer students advanced training leading toward professional careers in college teaching and scholarly research. Students enjoy a program that strikes its own balance between traditional historic musicology and interdisciplinary connections to music theory, ethnomusicology and the humanities, in general.

The musicology faculty is a friendly community of researchers whose areas of expertise represent a variety of scholarly approaches and critical methods.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE OFFERED: • Bachelor of Music - History and Literature

GRADUATE DEGREE OFFERED:

• Master of Music - History and Literature

MUSIC THEORY/HISTORY FACULTY Danny Beard, Ph.D.—music theory Joseph Brumbeloe, Ph.D.—music theory Chris Goertzen, Ph.D.—musicology Edward Hafer, Ph.D.—musicology Douglas Rust, Ph.D.—music theory

For bios and more information, visit www.usm.edu/music/faculty-bios.

MUSIC THEORY

The music theory program, within the School of Music, promotes music theory as a subject of broad and passionate interest to performers, historians, ethnomusicologists, composers and theorists. For undergraduates, we offer a wide range of courses with various levels of concentration in the discipline.

While many of our undergraduates have gone on to have professional careers in music, others have used their music study as an enriching foundation for other pursuits. Within the Southern Miss Graduate School, the music theory program offers a Master of Music degree in music theory. Normally, between two and four students are admitted each year, some with generous teaching assistantships, and they add to a tightly knit community of scholars who both benefit from, and add to, the intellectual and cultural life of the University. Most graduates continue their studies at another university to earn the Ph.D., using their time at Southern Miss to begin presenting and publishing research that will make their applications more competitive.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED: • Bachelor of Arts in Music • Bachelor of Music - Performance

GRADUATE DEGREE OFFERED: • Master of Music in Music Theory

“

I enjoy teaching all of the freshmen and sophomore-level music theory.

It’s great to see the students’ light bulbs come on when they start to understand music for the first time.’

-Dr. Danny Beard

ALUMNI: LET US HEAR FROM YOU!

We love hearing the great things our alumni are doing!

Share your story with us for possible inclusion in our next ENCORE! publication.

Visit www.usm.edu/music and click on the Alumni tab to fill out the online submission.

CONNECT

Follow us on Facebook at “USMSchoolofMusic,” on Twitter at “USMmusic,” and on YouTube at “USMmusic1” for the latest news, photos, videos and more.

MAILING LISTS

Be a part of the Southern Miss Alumni Association by visiting www.southernmissalumni.com.

“Southern mem’ries we shall cherish...”

If you would like to receive additional Southern Miss School of Music information and updates, visit www.usm.edu/music and click on the green envelope icon at the bottom right corner of the home page.

CALENDAR

For the most up-to-date list of concerts, visit our online calendar at www.usm.edu/music.

We love to have you visit for concert and events anytime!

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES IN-STATE COSTS

Offering everything you need to kickstart a successful career, Southern Miss is one of the most affordable universities in the country.

All woodwind, brass and string instruments, percussion, piano and voice, music theory and history, music education, conducting, opera and jazz

Current tuition is only $3,612 a semester.

You may choose to add a meal plan and/or housing for exceptional value.* Qualified music majors have the opportunity to earn up to a full-tuition scholarship or service award to offset costs!*

OUT-OF-STATE COSTS No Because the arts are important at Southern Miss, all music majors pay only in-state tuition rates whether you are from a neighboring state or from across the globe.

GRADUATE DEGREES IN-STATE COSTS

Offering everything you need to kickstart a successful career, Southern Miss is one of the most affordable universities in the country.

Current graduate tuition is only $1,745 a semester.

Graduate assistants have the opportunity to earn up to a full-tuition waiver, plus $7,200 to offset costs!*

OUT-OF-STATE COSTS No Whether from a neighboring state or from across the globe,

• Master of Music in Performance, Conducting, Theory and Composition, History and Literature, Woodwind Performance and Pedagogy • Master of Music Education, Choral and Instrumental • Doctor of Musical Arts in Conducting and Performance and Pedagogy • Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education

the possibility of free out-of-state tuition makes Southern Miss closer than you think.

Current out-of-state tuition is only $8,047 a semester.

Graduate assistants have the opportunity to earn up to a full out-of-state waiver, full-tuition scholarship, plus $7,200 to offset costs!* *Meal plans range from $1,497 - 1,797 annually.

Housing plans range from $1,990 - 3,050 annually.

Figures accurate at time of printing are subject to change.

From the comfort of your home, complete your master’s degree online in music education for the cost of in-state tuition no matter where you live!

THREE EASY STEPS

APPLY TO THE UNIVERSITY NOW

choose.usm.edu

APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID NOW

choose.usm.edu

Don’t wait! Apply for admission to the University so everything is all set when you audition later. Visit choose.usm.edu to begin your journey!

AUDITION DATES NOVEMBER 11, 2016 CHORAL ONLY

With deadlines moving earlier and earlier, the sooner you apply for financial assistance, the better. Visit choose.usm.edu and scrolll down to Financial Aid Sources to get started.

JANUARY 20, 2017 FEBRUARY 17, 2017 MARCH 3, 2017 FINANCIAL AID PRIORITY DEADLINE IS IN EARLY 2017 Other audition opportunities may be available on a case-by-case basis at SICC, All-South and other events and workshops.

Please speak to specific faculty within each area to confirm.

AUDITION FOR THE SCHOOL OF MUSIC

usm.edu/music

All prospective music majors must audition regardless of their choice of degree plan.

Visit www.usm.edu/music, then click Future Students tab and Auditions link to sign up.

Need help? Call the School of Music admissions coordinator at 601.266.5366.

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Partners for the Arts (PFTA) continues to provide essential funding for a variety of School of Music performances. Due to a recent reorganization of PFTA, your membership dollars will have an even greater impact on the performances we produce. Please visit www.usm.edu/arts and become a “Friend of Music� to show your support. Thank you!

AA/EOE/ADAI

www.usm.edu/music