S A Y I N G G O O D B Y E TO OUR RETIRING FACULTY OF THE UTSA MUSIC COMMUNITY.
THESE PROFESSORS HAVE POURED THEIR TIME, HEART, AND SOUL INTO THE MUSIC STUDENTS AT UTSA. WE APPRECIATE THEIR HARD WORK AND DILIGENCE TO MAKE US BETTER MUSICIANS AND WE WISH THEM WELL IN THEIR FUTURE ENDEAVORS AFTER RETIRING!
DIANA ALLAN Dr. Allan has taught at UTSA for 26 years. Originally from Joplin, Missouri, Dr. Allan moved to San Antonio after obtaining her undergraduate degree to study under Herald Stark. She later received her doctoral degree from the University of Texas at Austin and has performed with the San Antonio Symphony, Laredo Philharmonic, and many more renowned ensembles. While in pursuit of her doctoral degree, Dr. Allan realized her love for teaching. This is apparent in the inspiring passion that she displays in the UTSA voice area. She stated that “there is nothing like watching a student light up when they understand something new”. After retiring, Dr. Allan has plans to move back to Missouri to be close to family and will continue teaching privately. Best wishes, Dr. Allan!
MORGAN KING Professor King is from San Antonio and began studying music in high school. He went on to receive his undergraduate degree at Berklee College of Music and later studied at the Boston Conservatory. With a passion for music and performance, he has toured with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra and has even made European and Far East tours with Eartha Kitt.
Professor King has taught a variety of courses at UTSA for the past 25 years. When asked about retirement, he stated, “I’ll still be heavily involved in music. Being a musician isn’t a career designation, it’s what you are”. He also spoke of his love for teaching and watching students learn. After retiring, Professor King has plans to continue teaching privately and has multiple performances booked with Carmen’s De La Calle, the NAACP, and many more. Happy Retirement, Professor King!
JOHN SILANTIEN Dr. Silantien first found his love for music as an eight year old with an old country western guitar given to him by his uncle. As time went on, he learned how to play multiple instruments. He even played the accordion in the Army Band during the Vietnam War. He received his doctoral degree from the University of Illinois and his performance history is noteworthy, including performances for United States Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon. During his 38 years at UTSA, Dr. Silantien has been an instrumental part of the voice area. He has taken the UTSA Concert Choir to New York, Brazil, Prague, and many other places. He has made a profound impact upon the entire department, in the vocal area and beyond. When asked about his plans for after retirement he quickly stated, “Fishing! I’m going fishing!”. As a retiree, he will also continue to be the Director of Music at University Presbyterian Church. Happy fishing, Dr Silantien!
Ariel Alba
UTSA MUSIC GRADUATES
NOW & FOREVER A ROADRUNNER! Commencement is right around the corner for Colleges and Universities everywhere. It’s a time of celebration, reflection, and a new beginning as students turn the page and begin a new chapter in their lives. Hear what some of our UTSA Music graduates have to say about their college experience, memories, and future plans. Then see all of our graduates cross the stage at the Alamodome, Saturday, May 12 at 4 p.m.
Ariel Eduardo Alba: I once heard it's not the places that can be missed, but it's the people we miss. I think it was the whole experience. I miss playing by the humanities building between classes, or outside of the Recital Hall while I wait for class, jogging around campus in the mornings, the sunsets on the way back to my apartment, knowing that this is the season where most of the week is packed with concerts (including the unofficial UTSA Shredfest!). I miss my friends from the Music Department, hanging out with the rest of the guitar department in our corner of the world, outside the Recital Hall. Browsing through the JPL's CD collection, and the list can go on and on.
Jacob Bernstein
Aaron Collins
Jacob Bernstein: I suppose my favorite memory was my senior recital, it was a lot of work organizing seven ensembles and to have all those students devote their time and hard work really made it a special evening for me. Also the fact that my last semester I was able to spend it in the study abroad program in Urbino, Italy. It has been a fantastic semester and I've developed a lot as a musician over the semester.
Aaron Collins: Post graduation, I plan on continuing my search for a career teaching music education in the public school system. I would love nothing more than the opportunity to work at a local program here in Northside ISD. I have admired the strong relationship between UTSA and Northside and have been blessed to observe and learn so much from the Northside community, many of whom are UTSA Alumni. I would love the opportunity to teach and give back in the district that has provided me with so many fantastic mentors and opportunities.
Hugo Funes
UTSA MUSIC GRADUATES Hugo Funes: My favorite memory is participating with the first ever UTSA marching band. The first time we perform in the Alamodome. That first game was one to remember for sure. My plan after graduation is to come back for a post back teachers certification. The learning continues for me!
Claudia-RenĂŠe Gonzalez: My favorite memory was performing with the UTSA Mariachi Los Paisanos at the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza and receiving a trophy for the college division. The competition is nationwide and it was an awesome feeling being able to bring awareness to the musical diversity that we have to offer UTSA!
James Kurz: After I graduate, my plans are to find work with orchestras in Texas and gain as much orchestra experience as possible. I will play and sing on the worship team at my church, and I will also be enjoying my hobbies of swimming, rock climbing, drifting, and motocross. I will eventually pursue a Master of Music degree at the Rossini Conservatory of Music in Pesaro, Italy, or a staff position with Musicians for Missions at Youth With a Mission in Perth, Australia.
Katherine Leidlein: I would describe my overall time at UTSA as a pleasant one filled with friendship, mentorship, and one that taught me that no dream was too big. It taught me that if one worked hard, even a small town girl with a learning disability could achieve anything.
Kathleen Sarabia: My professional 5 year plan is to find an elementary music position. I would also like to start getting my certification in either Orff or Kodaly and hopefully in the next 5 years, I will be able to return to school and get my master's degree in Music Education. Really, the sky is the limit and as long as there is an opportunity to learn, I might as well do it. My personal plan is to enjoy my first summer as a college graduate and my 1 year anniversary in July with my wonderful husband, Jimmy. â?¤ *For more information about Commencement visit https://www.utsa.edu/commencement/
Katherine Leidlein
Kathleen Sarabia
Claudia Gonzalez
James Kurz
ALL-STATE CHOIR CAMP THIS SUMMER, THE 22ND ANNUAL UTSA CHOIR CAMP WILL SIMPLY BE A SPECTACLE. JUNE 24-27 As a leader in the Texas All-State Choir preparatory process, this camp will provide an intensive study of the All-State audition music. Students from all over Texas will be able to learn the pieces alongside UTSA vocal students while under the direction of the UTSA choral faculty, which include Dr. John Silantien and Dr. Gary Mabry, and outstanding guest clinicians from across Texas. Not only will students have the opportunity to get a head start on the All-State audition material for auditions in the fall, but they will also partake in fun evenings of activities, which in the past have included a talent show and even bounce houses. This year’s theme is “The Greatest Camp on Earth," taking inspiration from the ever-exciting world of show business. All high school students and those entering high school who are planning to participate in the All-State process are welcome to register. The camp is scheduled to be held June 24-27 at UTSA’s Main Campus. Students will stay overnight in Alvarez Hall with their “POD” leaders and will spend their full days participating in sectional rehearsals, breakout sessions, and other fun activities. At the end of the camp, the sections will come together to put on a full performance in the Recital Hall for friends and family, showcasing their hard work. Camp tuition is $315, which pays for housing, meals, breakout sessions, a camp t-shirt, and All-State music. The payment deadline is June 10th. Tuition discounts are offered for All-State Members. For more information, contact: Camp Coordinator: Colin Varville at choircamp@utsa.edu Or visit the website at: utsamusiccamps.com
SUMMERÂ BAND INSTITUTE JUNE 17-23
Coming this June, the music building will be flooded with young musicians from all over the city. The third annual UTSA Summer Band Institute will take place June 17th -23rd in a week of music training ending in a concert showcase. Students from 7th grade to incoming college freshmen will be divided into bands under the direction of Professor Ron Ellis and Dr. John Zarco as well as our guest conductors, John and Angela Dominguez. Campers will receive a wide range of selections to learn throughout the week, including soundtrack music from popular films. The soundtrack music component is designed to give students a feel for what recording is like in the real world when synced up to a moving picture. It is performed on concert day in true theatre style with the film on screen and live band accompaniment. In addition to all things music, high school students will get to participate in a marching band ensemble learning leadership, technique, and drill. By the end of the week, students will have a full show put together and a better understanding of the style and pace of a college marching band. When rehearsal time is over, the day is not. Students will get to enjoy recreational activities and see what it’s like on a college campus. Overnight campers will be staying in Alvarez Hall.
Both commuters and residents have the chance to participate in nightly activities including the annual Band Olympics, sports and pool time at the Recreation Center, and a day at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. As a closing, all campers and parents are invited to a semi-formal banquet on Friday night. Dinner will be served along with award presentations, a camp recap video, and a dance to end the night. The UTSA Summer Band Institute is a great way for middle school and high school students to challenge themselves beyond what they learn during the school year. While many of their peers likely do not pick up their instruments in the summer, campers will get to apply and refine their knowledge to exciting music and perform for friends and family. The camp experience also offers students the chance to meet and get to know other students who share their same love for band. All camp counselors are UTSA students and future music educators who can answer the many questions one might have about going to college. For more information visit utsamusiccamps.com
JUNE 11-22 This June, the UTSA Music Department will host its annual Performing Arts Camp. This exciting 2-week program is a comprehensive workshop-style camp for students in grades 3-8 interested in the performing arts. Students will learn about what goes on both onstage and behind the scenes, taught by professionals and college students in the field. The camp provides extensive instruction in voice, dance, theatre history, costuming and more. Students will be able to use what they learn in a performance on the evening of the final day.
Camp faculty include Dr. William McCrary, Associate Professor and the Director of Lyric Theatre at UTSA, and Michelle Pietri, who worked with UTSA’s Lyric Theatre as a choreographer, costume designer, and director. Pietri also teaches credited dance classes for UTSA’s Dance Program. Alongside them are Jacob Valadez, a music graduate of UTSA, Rachael Pierce, music teacher and private voice instructor, and Tess Acosta, a counselor since 2015 who has experience in dance, voice, acting, costuming, prop managing, and set construction. The camp will run at the Buena Vista Theater at the Downtown Campus and will run from 9:30am to 3:00pm each day from June 11 to June 22. The total cost for the camp is $350.00, which includes the nonrefundable $50.00 registration fee. The registration fee deadline is May 25th and final payments are due by June 8th. Scholarships are available through auditions, which are held the last week of May. Contact the camp director, Michelle Pietri, for more audition information. Also available are payment plans and a discount for siblings after the first-full price student. For more information, contact: Camp Administrator: Michelle Pietri at mpietri1@sbcglobal.net Or visit the website at: utsamusiccamps.com
PERFORMING ARTS CAMP FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES 3-8
PERCUSSION CAMP JULY 9TH-13TH
Offered specifically to young percussionists, UTSA is proud to host the first annual Percussion Camp taking place July 9th -13th . Designed for graduating 6th -12th graders, campers will have the “total percussion” experience intended to expose students to a wide range of skills. Hands-on masterclasses and rehearsals will include instruction in orchestral percussion, mallet keyboards, jazz improvisation and drum set, world percussion, and marching percussion. Students will get to showcase their week’s hard work in a concert to close out the camp. Under the direction of UTSA faculty, Michael Mixtacki, Sherry Rubins, and Ben Pyles along with Joe Caploe, students will be exposed to a wealth of knowledge in many areas of the percussion world. Michael Mixtacki is a seasoned performer and music educator at UTSA teaching private lessons, drum set improvisation, and as the co-director of the Percussion Ensemble alongside Sherry Rubins. Serving as a graduate and undergraduate professor, and director of percussion and steel drum ensembles, Professor Rubins is also a percussionist for the San Antonio Symphony and among other local performance groups. In the field of marching percussion we have Ben Pyles, Director of Athletic Percussion at UTSA. Pyles has several years of experience performing with and instructing a number of Drum Corps International groups including the Bluecoats, Crossmen, and Colts among others. Joe Caploe, now a San Antonio resident, spent thirteen years as the Director of Percussion and Jazz Studies at the University of Wisconsin–Platteville. He is now a professor at St. Mary’s University and will be joining us for the inaugural year of UTSA Percussion Camp. Students will have the opportunity to grow in their individual performance as well as improve in an ensemble setting over the course of the week. Registration for the UTSA Percussion Camp will be open until June 1, 2018. For more information visit utsamusiccamps.com
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Natalie Magana
UTSA Music alum Natalie Magaña (2013) has recently been selected by application as a 2018 Emerging Artist at the Victoria Bach Festival. The selected Emerging Artists perform in recital during the festival, held June 5-9 in Victoria, Texas, and assist with outreach concerts to local civic groups. Natalie received her Bachelor of Music from UTSA and is currently pursuing her Masters in flute performance at Bowling Green State University. While at BGSU, Natalie has had the opportunity to commission and premiere many new works. Most recently, she premiered ‘A Face Behind’ for bass flute and percussion by Kory Reeder available for streaming on both Natalie’s and Kory’s SoundCloud.
Natalie has been working on a large-scale commission project which will result in the premiere of 6 new works for flute and saxophone in August 2018. Natalie has also commissioned composer Bret Bohman for a new work for flute and live electronics which will be premiered at the Bowling Green State University New Music Festival in October 2018.
UTSA MUSIC WELCOMES DR. TRACY COWDEN! Incoming UTSA Music Chair The 2018 Fall Semester will bring many new faces to the UTSA Department of Music. From incoming freshman to graduate students, our UTSA Music community will grow yet again, but aspiring musicians and educators are not the only newcomers. We are excited to introduce incoming Music Department Chair, Dr. Tracy Cowden. Dr. Cowden received her D.M.A. and M.M. degrees in piano accompanying and chamber music from the Eastman School of Music, and a B.M. degree in piano performance from Western Michigan University. Her passion for music began at a young age. “I loved music and begged my parents for piano lessons when I was young. But I did not seriously consider music as a profession until near the end of my high school years.”
Dr. Cowden did not initially plan to pursue a career in music performance, citing “I thought that I could not realistically expect to have a career as a performing musician, so I planned to complete a bachelor's degree in performance with a minor in business and go to graduate school for arts administration”. As her studies continued, Dr. Cowden says she “found such great joy in making music with others” and fully placed her efforts into being a collaborative pianist. During her graduate studies, Dr. Cowden discovered an interest in education and began teaching at the university level. UTSA Music is certainly looking forward to having Dr. Cowden as a part of our outstanding faculty, and the excitement is a shared sentiment. Dr. Cowden shared, “I am delighted to join UTSA Music as your Department Chair next semester! I received such a wonderful welcome from everyone when I was on campus in January, and I was impressed by the thoughtful questions the students asked in our meeting. You have an interesting mix of disciplines within the department, and a tremendous amount of activity of all types - I am excited to learn more about all aspects of the department”. We look forward to your arrival in the Fall, Dr. Cowden! (Photo credit: Lisa Novitsky)