Joey Berrios - Chief Editor, Graphic Designer, Photographer
Suzanna Bridges-Keese - PR Assistant, Editor
Sebastian Forestier - Graphic Designer
Welcome to
Welcome to
Showcasing UTSA School of Music CADENZA
Friends,
Welcome to the October issue of Cadenza! This marks the halfway point in our celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, and we have several wonderful concerts planned, all free and open to the public. I also want to highlight three items for your attention:
• This month’s Alumni Spotlight features our newest staff member, Joey Berrios, who serves as the School of Music Marketing Coordinator. We are so delighted to welcome Joey to our team!
• Our other feature story is about Dr. Amy Frishkey, our first ethnomusicologist in the School of Music.
You can find more information on upcoming concerts on the School of Music homepage and in the COLFA calendar, where you can filter events by type. And please share Cadenza with your friends and family outside of San Antonio; they can check out the livestreams of our performances on our School of Music Facebook page!
Are you interested in having live music at your own event? You could hire a student group! Our Gig Service link is live on the School of Music website! And as always, we invite our alumni to submit your news and reconnect with your UTSA Music friends by sending an update to music@utsa.edu. We hope you are as excited as we are about all that is happening in the School of Music, and we look forward to seeing you soon for live music at UTSA!
Dr. Tracy Cowden
Roland K. Blumberg Endowed Professor in Music Director of the UTSA School of Music
UPCOMING EVENTS
OCTOBER
2024
October 2024 MEET THE FACULTY
AMY FRISHKEY, PhD
Asst. Prof. of Ethnomusicology Department of Music
Dr. Amy Frishkey, a newly appointed faculty member at the School of Music, brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion for music from around the world to our UTSA community. Her journey in ethnomusicology has taken her from a young piano student to a researcher and educator whose work highlights the power of music in shaping and reflecting cultural identities.
Dr. Frishkey’s path to ethnomusicology began with her fascination for both music and anthropology during her undergraduate years at the University of North Texas. She pursued a double major in Anthropology and Music, a combination that allowed her to explore the cultural significance of music across various societies. As a first-generation college student, her curiosity was sparked when she encountered an Introduction to Cultural Anthropology course, which encouraged her to examine how traditions shape cultural practices. This unique blend of interests ultimately led her to discover the field of ethnomusicology. “I started singing when I was a toddler, and started taking piano when I was six,” Dr. Frishkey recalled. “When I found out about ethnomusicology as a discipline in upper-division courses, I was like, oh, I can marry these two interests.”
Dr. Frishkey went on to earn her Master of Arts and Ph.D. in Ethnomusicology from UCLA, a program renowned for its pioneering work in the field. During her studies, she immersed herself in the musical traditions of the Garifuna people of the Central American Caribbean coast. Her dissertation, titled “Garifuna Popular Music ‘Renewed’: Authenticity, Tradition, and Belonging in Garifuna World Music,” examines the intersection of traditional and popular music genres within Garifuna culture. Her deep connection to Garifuna music traces back to an archeological trip to Belize, where she experienced the rich culture and vibrant drumming of the Garifuna community firsthand. This moment left an indelible mark on her, sparking a lifelong dedication to understanding and sharing the complexities of Garifuna musical traditions.
Dr. Frishkey’s arrival at UTSA was part of an exciting interdisciplinary initiative by the College of Liberal and Fine Arts (COLFA) to promote Black Diaspora studies. As Dr. Drew Stephen noted, “Amy was hired as part of a COLFA cluster hire intended to promote the importance of Black Diaspora, Black Cultural, and
NOW AND FOREVER I AM A ROADRUNNER
Black Atlantic experiences from different theoretical and disciplinary perspectives. She was one of two successful candidates hired from our review of over 70 applications from different disciplines.”
Dr. Stephen emphasized that Dr. Frishkey’s research on Afroindigenous Garifuna popular music was particularly compelling, as it complements the work of her colleagues and opens new teaching and research opportunities for both the department and the college.
“Her ideas for developing drumming ensembles and new courses addressing rap music and hip-hop culture resonated strongly with the committee,” he added. “We were also very impressed with her rapport with students and the strong positive student feedback from her teaching demonstration.”
Reflecting on her experience, Dr. Frishkey shared, “From the time of my campus visit, the School of Music felt very familial, conveying a lot of mutual respect, emotional maturity, and professionalism. I was just really drawn to that. It felt warm and welcoming from the beginning, and that has borne fruit since I’ve been here.”
Dr. Frishkey has taught at several prestigious institutions, including UCLA, the University of California, Riverside, and the University of Texas at Austin. Now at UTSA, she teaches courses such as “Music of the African Diaspora” and “World Music in Society,” and brings her fieldwork, research, and personal experiences into the classroom. She engages students in conversations about how music is experienced, understood, and produced in different cultural contexts. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in exposing students to diverse musical traditions and challenging preconceived notions about music.
“It’s cool to see students have their horizons expanded, especially if they’ve been brought up with Western classical training,” she notes, highlighting the importance of embracing a broader understanding of global musical practices.
Dr. Frishkey and Francisco Ruiz Rivas share a moment in Houston, TX, 2017.
Dr. Amy Frishkey discussing Chinese Pop at UTSA, 2024
October 2024 MEET THE FACULTY
Dr. Frishkey is currently working on her forthcoming book, Navigating Neo-Traditionalism in Garifuna Popular Music, which explores the evolution of Garifuna music as it enters the global stage. Her research examines the tension between preserving cultural traditions and adapting to the demands of the world music industry, offering insights into how younger Garifuna musicians navigate their cultural heritage in a commercial context.
In addition to her book, Dr. Frishkey has expressed a keen interest in exploring the role of women in Garifuna music, a subject that remains underrepresented in scholarship. She plans to conduct interviews with female-identifying Garifuna artists to understand their experiences in the music industry, a field that has traditionally been male-dominated.
Dr. Frishkey’s vision for ethnomusicology at UTSA is both expansive and collaborative. She sees the discipline as a bridge that connects music studies with other fields, such as anthropology, African-American studies, and Mexican-American studies. She hopes to create interdisciplinary courses, symposiums, and even an ethnomusicology club that can serve as a hub for students interested in an ethnographic approach to the rich diversity of music from around the world.
Her enthusiasm for building connections across departments is evident, as she envisions future collaborations with colleagues to explore topics such as Afro-Mexican music. By fostering these cross-disciplinary conversations, Dr. Frishkey aims to establish ethnomusicology as an integral part of UTSA’s academic community.
Dr. Amy Frishkey’s work not only enriches our understanding of world music but also provides students with the opportunity to explore the cultural significance of music in new and exciting ways. Her dedication to bridging music with cultural anthropology, along with her impressive research on Garifuna traditions, positions her as a valuable addition to the UTSA School of Music.
As she continues to share her expertise and passion, Dr. Frishkey is helping to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the diverse world of music, inspiring students to think beyond the conventional and explore the sounds that connect us all.
- Joey Berrios
Dr. Frishkey performs with local musicians in Hopkins Village, Belize, 2022
October 2024 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
JOEY BERRIOS
B.A. in Art 2020
Master of Science in Business 2021
October’s Alumni Spotlight shines on Joey Berrios, as we welcome him as our new Music Marketing Coordinator for the School of Music. He is a UTSA alum and veteran who has made his mark in both the music industry and education sphere.
Berrios graduated with a Bachelor’s of Art and a minor in Music Marketing in 2020. In 2021, he furthered his education and obtained a Master’s of Science in Business. He serves as the new Music Marketing Coordinator for UTSA’s Department of Music while also co-owning his recording studio, Ear Bender Studios, in San Antonio.
After earning degrees in Avionics Systems Technology and Mental Health Services Administration during his
military service, Berrios felt a calling to continue his education. “Honestly, it was a straightforward decision,” Berrios recalls. “My passion for higher education developed while I was on active duty, so going back to school was always part of the plan. When I retired from the Air Force, I found myself at a crossroads: either pursue a degree in business, or follow my passion for the arts. Nearly two years into my journey of becoming a business major, I made the bold decision to shift from the Alvarez College of Business to the School of Arts, immersing myself in a field I was genuinely passionate about.”
While taking Dr. Stan Renard’s Nonprofit Organizations course at UTSA, Berrios was introduced to San Antonio Sound Garden (SASG), where he began as a volunteer executive assistant and later rose to Director of Operations (2019-2021) and Executive Director (2021-2022). Reflecting on this transformative experience, Berrios explains, “Service has always been a core value for me, dating back to my high school years when I regularly volunteered. Meeting Adam Tutor, the Executive Director of SASG, was inspiring. SASG’s mission of serving underrepresented communities by transforming a passion for music into viable careers deeply resonated with me.”
Berrios’ role allowed him to streamline operations, improve program delivery, and mentor talented young artists, many of whom are now pursuing successful careers. “These experiences truly solidified my passion for helping others and shaped my path in the music industry,” he states.
NOW AND FOREVER I AM A ROADRUNNER
As both Music Marketing Coordinator at UTSA and co-owner of Ear Bender Studios, Berrios often has to reflect on balancing both aspirations and notes the importance of support. “Balancing both roles requires support from my team, business partners, and a deep passion for both music business and production,” he shares.
“At UTSA, I collaborate with students, faculty, and staff to showcase the achievements and events of the Department of Music, always strategizing to elevate our programs and connect with broader audiences.” With his new role at UTSA, Berrios is excited to focus the spotlight on the music community at the university and its events. “For UTSA, I’m hoping to make an impact in awareness,” he adds. “There’s no lack of amazing things happening here, so I’d like to get more eyes on our students, faculty, events, and programming.”
When asked what it was like venturing into opening a recording studio, Berrios acknowledges, “First, I have to give credit to my business partners Jed Craddock and Boh Ireland, who were instrumental in getting things off the ground. It started as an idea but owning a small business is really, really, hard— you have to do and be everything. You end up wearing multiple hats, such as the marketing person, engineer, producer, salesman, business administrator, manager, and more. The buck stops with you, and you have to be the first one in and the last one out, taking responsibility for both the successes and failures that come with opening a business like this.”
“We don’t just record, mix, and master,” he continues. “We do live sound, lights, shoot photos, produce videos, teach lessons and workshops, host events, and so much more. As a studio, we aim to make the business as welcoming as possible with clear expectations, which requires high levels of communication and the willingness to be bold and try something that feels intimidating. It’s risky, and it’s nerve-wracking, but so far, it’s been worth every drop of sweat we’ve poured into this.” Berrios notes, “We recently began renovations on our space to make it even more energy-efficient and comfortable, which reflects our commitment to constantly improving and evolving.”
Beyond his work at UTSA and the studio, Berrios actively performs as a bassist with both The Jed Craddock Band, as well as Jacob Kyle and The Blues Bonnets. “Playing with these bands allows me to connect with the local music scene on a personal level, building relationships and gaining inspiration,” he shares. “These performances not only keep my passion for music alive but also provide opportunities to collaborate with other talented musicians.”
Joey Berrios with San Antonio Sound Garden, 2020
When asked how he maintains his own creativity and motivation while managing multiple roles, Berrios admits, “This has proven to be the most difficult area to keep alive in my spare time. Making music and art, for me, doesn’t live in a technical world of settings, presets, writing, or business plans. For expression, I find myself gathering inspiration from others and what I observe, rather than just telling my own story.”
He continues, stating, “I often see an artist or musician doing something interesting live or on social media, perhaps using tools similar to mine, and I’ll delve into creating art or music with those same methods. It helps me keep my skills sharp, but creating takes a lot of effort and focus. Where I once created only when the mood struck, I now find myself scheduling time to make. It feels a bit odd, but I have to find the time and outlet to make it happen.”
Berrios also emphasizes the importance of capturing inspiration as it comes. “Having access to make music or art wherever I am is allowing me to easily capture inspiration that I can later develop into something more robust. That’s vital to my process.” he shares.
When asked what advice he would give to current students, Berrios reflects on the importance of diversity of skills. “The more experiences you gather, the more well-rounded you become, and that’s the most valuable lesson I’ve learned,” he states. “While being a jack of all trades can sometimes be seen as a negative, implying you’re a master of none, I’ve found that having a diverse skill set makes you more adaptable and effective in tackling projects and challenges.”
Berrios encourages students to follow their passions, even when faced with preconceived notions about fame or what constitutes success. “Music has always been my refuge and is the path I’ve chosen for my life,” he reflects. “I think there’s a tendency for people to define success in terms of wealth or widespread recognition. But in reality, success is far more personal and meaningful than that. To me, it’s about finding something you’re deeply passionate about and using that passion to make a positive impact on others. It’s not about how many people know your name or how much money you make; it’s about how you can leave a lasting impression and inspire others through your work.”
– Suzanna Bridges-Keese
Berrios at The Little Carver Civic Center, 2022
Jed Craddock (Left) and Joey Berrios (Right) at Ear Bender Studios, 2023
Happening Around The Nest
Thomas B. Yee Wins
The American Prize in Composition, 2024
UTSA Faculty and composer Thomas B. Yee has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning The American Prize in Composition, professional orchestra division, for 2024 with his thought-provoking work, “The Musician’s Guide to Philosophy.” This prestigious award highlights Yee’s exceptional talent and dedication, distinguishing him among composers from across the United States. His composition stands out for its intricate orchestral textures and ability to convey deep philosophical themes, demonstrating Yee’s mastery of his craft.
The American Prize is a national nonprofit competition that recognizes and rewards outstanding performing artists, directors, ensembles, and composers across the United States. Established in 2010, it evaluates artists based on submitted recordings, making it one of the most comprehensive and inclusive contests in the performing arts. Now in its thirteenth year, The American Prize offers artists at various levels, from professional to high school, the opportunity to gain national recognition and share their work with a wider audience.
Yee’s winning piece, “The Musician’s Guide to Philosophy,” serves as a testament to his ability to blend complex musical ideas with thought-provoking concepts, creating a compelling listening experience. This honor marks a significant milestone in his career, solidifying his reputation as a composer of exceptional skill and vision. His achievement not only reflects his personal dedication but also brings pride to the San Antonio music community.
The American Prize has become a respected platform for artists nationwide, celebrating the richness and diversity of American artistic talent. Yee’s success in this competitive contest is a reminder of the impact that dedication, creativity, and artistic excellence can have in shaping the landscape of contemporary music.
Congratulations to Thomas B. Yee for this outstanding accomplishment, which contributes to the vibrancy of American orchestral music and sets a high standard for future composers.
- Joey Berrios
Thomas B. Yee, DMA
Asst. Prof. of Instruction, Theory and Composition
OCTOBER 2024
STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST INFORMATION AT UTSA MUSIC MUSIC.UTSA.EDU FOLLOW US! @UTSA
