Showcasing UTSA School of Music CADENZA
Friends,
Welcome to the March issue of Cadenza – a month that starts with a major celebration! We hope that you are able to join us at the Tobin Center on March 4th to celebrate 50 years of Art and Music at UTSA! March continues with a two performances celebrating Women’s History Month: pianist Erica Sipes is featured on our En Vivo series on March 5th, and a wonderful set of Lyric Theatre performances takes place at the UTSA Arts Cube (see here for more information) on March 5th-6th. Look ahead in these pages for highlights of further events throughout March!
In this issue, our alumni spotlight is on Shirlyn Davenport, an elementary music teacher here in San Antonio, and we have not one but two features on our amazing faculty! This issue also includes a story about the Chamber Singers’ upcoming performance at the American Choral Directors Association National Conference, as well as information about our upcoming Mariachi Vocal Competition.
The primary purpose of Cadenza is to provide you with information about upcoming concerts; you can also check our online events calendar for upcoming concert information. And 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! As always, we hope that all of you will take this opportunity to follow us on social media, where we post fun features on our students, faculty, and staff, link to our livestreams, and share photos and video clips of all that is taking place in the UTSA School of Music.
Are you interested in having live music at your own event? You could hire a student group! Look for the “Book Us” link 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 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
March 2025 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Shirlyn Davenport, 2021
SHIRLYN
DAVENPORT
B.M. in Music Studies, 2021
March’s alumni spotlight shines now on Shirlyn Davenport. The elementary music educator graduated from UTSA in 2021 with a Bachelor’s in Music in Music Studies. Some of Davenport’s favorite memories at the UTSA School of Music include the Winterlude concert of 2019.
“It was the last concert we performed as a choir in the recital hall before COVID-19 changed everything,” Davenport reflects. “That semester, we were introduced to Dr. Muhn, who worked hard to give us a beautiful repertoire. One of the most special moments was singing O Holy Night from within the audience—a tradition that continues to this day. By chance, my family was seated right next to me, making the experience even more meaningful.”
Another special moment for Davenport at UTSA was the friendships and relationships she hopes will last for a lifetime. The educator believes giving back to the community through music is important and are what made her time at UTSA special. Davenport also notes how UTSA was her first real introduction to classical music, not knowing before hand what her voice was ‘truly capable of.’
“My voice professors, Dr. Howell and Professor Johnson, played a huge role in helping me discover and develop my sound,” Davenport states. “I entered UTSA with the goal of becoming an educator, but through their guidance, I also found a deep passion for performing.Professor Johnson, in particular, encouraged me to break out of my comfort zone. She introduced me to music that not only suited my voice but also allowed me to tell my own story. She exposed me to the works of African-American composers and classical music that went beyond the status quo, helping me connect with a part of my identity I hadn’t explored before.”
Davenport reflects on a special moment for her was competing in the National NATS in the Negro Spirituals category. “Before that, I’m ashamed to admit that I was unaware of the significant influence African Americans have had in classical music and the Black pioneers who paved the way,” Davenport acknowledges. “ As an African American singer, classical music had always felt somewhat out of reach due to the labels and stereotypes placed on us—both by society and sometimes even by ourselves. Professor Johnson helped open not just my voice, but my mind, to the endless possibilities of what I could achieve.”
Now, Davenport embraces the challenges she has overcome with her identity as both an educator and performer, proudly announcing she has been named the Alamo Area Alliance of Black School Educators Elementary Educator of the Year for 2023-2024 school year.
A professor that made a large difference in the musician’s career development was Dr. Stacey Davis. Davenport notes that the overwhelming, stressful experience of being a music transfer student, who hadn’t studied music previously, was eased by a time when Dr. Davis sat down with her.
NOW AND FOREVER I AM A ROADRUNNER
Dr. Davis sat down with me after class one day, took a deep dive into my schedule, and mapped out the next four years until graduation, ensuring I stayed on track, met my scholarship requirements, and avoided exceeding the 150-credit-hour rule,” she notes. “Without her guidance, I might still be in college, paying double for classes I didn’t need.”
Another professor dear to her memory is Professor Crystal Jarrell-Johnson, who helped Davenport through a tragic time. Having lost her mother in April 2020, the first person Davenport reached out to was Professor Jarrell-Johnson. “She took it upon herself to contact each of my professors, ensuring they knew what I was going through and helping me grieve while still finishing my semester successfully,” she reflects. “That kind of support meant everything to me. This experience solidified something I had always felt—UTSA’s School of Music isn’t just a school or department. It’s a family. And for that, I am forever grateful.”
Davenport reflects on how performances and collaborations at UTSA prepared her for the professional world. She recalls how her professors instilled a sense of professionalism and responsibility in their students. Looking back, she realizes how much those lessons shaped her approach to music and education.
“At UTSA, our professors treated voice lessons and performances as the foundation of our careers,” Davenport notes. “They gave us the responsibility and autonomy to schedule coachings and lessons, select repertoire, and take ownership of our musical growth. The expectation was that we would act and perform as professionals, and those experiences gave me skills I still rely on today.”
She recalls a specific opportunity that stands out in her memory. This experience required her to take ownership of her work and develop crucial research and organizational skills. “One opportunity that stands out was working with Professor Johnson, who allowed me to select most of my senior recital repertoire—with her guidance, of course,” Davenport states. “I had to research composers, time periods, and languages to ensure the repertoire fit my voice while following the senior recital guidelines. That experience gave me the tools to confidently select and prepare music, which I continue to use in my career.”
Shirlyn Davenport, 2025
Currently, Davenport is in her fourth year as an elementary music educator at Julie N. Aue Elementary in Northside ISD, teaching kindergarten through fifth-grade students and directing both the school’s choir and ukulele performing group. She is incredibly grateful to Dr. Susan Dill, who recommended her for this position in 2021.
Reflecting on her time at UTSA, Davenport shares what she would tell her younger self. If she could go back, she would encourage herself to step out of her comfort zone much sooner, recognizing that embracing new opportunities is key to personal and professional growth.
“Looking back, my best memories from undergrad came from pushing myself beyond my comfort zone,” Davenport notes. “My advice to my younger self would be this: your major does not define you. It may dictate your coursework, but the UTSA School of Music offers opportunities to all music students—take advantage of them. Audition, perform, and embrace every opportunity to grow. Ultimately, these experiences will make you a better musician, educator, and person.”
- Suzanna Bridges-Keese
MEET THE FACULTY
Assistant Professor Rachel Woolf Named One of Yamaha’s Top 40 Under 40 Music Educators
Rachel Woolf is a flutist, educator, and performer dedicated to shaping the next generation of musicians. As the assistant professor of flute at UTSA, she has spent years guiding students through their artistic development while maintaining an active career as a soloist and chamber musician. She is also the co-founder of Duo AYA, a flute and marimba ensemble. Through both her teaching and performing, Woolf emphasizes creativity, authenticity, and a deep connection to music.
Recently, Woolf received the honor of being named one of Yamaha’s 40 Under 40 Music Educators. This recognition celebrates her dedication to musical growth and innovation in education. It also reflects the impact she has had on her students and the broader music community. “I am incredibly honored to be named one of Yamaha’s 40 Under 40 Music Educators,” Woolf reflects. “This recognition is a reflection not just of my efforts, but of the dedication, passion, and growth of my students over the past five and a half years at UTSA.”
For Woolf, the heart of teaching lies in helping students shape
their artistic identities. She believes that music education is not just about mastering technique but also about self-expression. Her goal is to guide students in embracing their unique musical journeys with confidence. “Teaching is about fostering creativity, resilience, and a lifelong love of music,” Woolf notes. “This journey has been one of continuous learning, collaboration, and staying curious, and I am grateful for the incredible community of students, colleagues, and mentors who have shaped my path.”
Her role at UTSA gives her the opportunity to witness the incredible growth of her students. Watching them refine their skills and develop their artistic voices is one of the most fulfilling aspects of her work. She cherishes the journey from their first lessons to their final recitals. “One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching at UTSA is witnessing my students discover their artistic voices,” Woolf states. “I love seeing their confidence grow as they find their tone, refine their technique, develop their musicality, and embrace their authenticity.”
Over the years, Woolf has had the privilege of celebrating numerous student achievements. Whether it’s major performances, competitions, or personal breakthroughs, these moments stand out as highlights of her career. She takes pride in the supportive and positive studio culture that has developed under her guidance. “There have been so many meaningful moments at UTSA—from creating virtual flute choir videos (including one shared by President Eighmy) to students being accepted to perform commissioned works at TMEA, the National Flute Association Convention, Texas Flute Society, and more,” Woolf notes. “What stands out most is the incredible shift in studio culture. The sense of positivity and support among my students is truly special, and I couldn’t be more proud of their dedication and hard work.”
Dr. Rachel Woolf, UTSA
In addition to her teaching, Woolf remains deeply engaged in the world of chamber music. With her ensemble, Duo AYA, she explores new ways to present and interpret contemporary repertoire. Their latest project, Cycles, is a testament to this innovative spirit. “Cycles is a deeply personal and exciting project that my dearest friend and musical collaborator, marimbist Makana Jimbu, and I have been developing as Duo AYA since spring of 2023,” Woolf states. “We invite listeners to embark on a musical journey with us through global, ecological, and imaginative landscapes.”
The project is the result of creative collaborations with composers and fellow musicians. Woolf and her duo partner sought to craft a program that reflects global influences and imaginative landscapes. The album showcases newly commissioned works and meaningful partnerships within the music community. “The album features four commissions by Evan Williams, Miriama Young, Fumihiro Ono, and our very own Paul Millette!” Woolf notes. “We also feature the UTSA Chamber Singers on our track by Miriama Young! The album will be released on all streaming platforms on April 18th, and there will be CDs and vinyl for sale!”
Managing a career that includes teaching, performing, and personal projects can be demanding. However, Woolf thrives in the dynamic energy of juggling multiple responsibilities. She sees each element of her work as closely interconnected, feeding her creativity and passion for music. “I wouldn’t say there is much balance in my life, even though I work on it every day,” Woolf reflects. “Sometimes everything happens all at once, and other times things come in waves. When things slow down, I focus on resting, which helps me gear up for busier moments. That said, I thrive in chaos and enjoy being immersed in multiple projects at once. It definitely helps to love what I do!”
For those looking to build a career in music, Woolf emphasizes the importance of persistence and exploration. She encourages students to stay open to different musical styles and opportunities. By doing so, they can carve out their own unique paths in the field. “Continue to show up to your instrument each and every day, focusing on your fundamentals and the work you are doing in lessons, but also make time to explore your own interests,” Woolf advises. “Stay curious and open-minded—learning different styles of music that inspire you can really pay off in the long run. Don’t be afraid to take risks and push boundaries. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable.”
Reflecting on her journey, Woolf appreciates the lessons she has learned along the way. She acknowledges that growth takes time and that patience is key in a musical career. Trusting the process has been essential in shaping her experiences and successes.
“If I could go back to the early days of my career, I would remind myself to trust the process and not to rush the process,” Woolf states. “Have faith in the journey because you are going to end up exactly where you need to be if you continue to show up and do the work, day in and day out. I don’t think I would do anything differently, because my unique journey has led me to this moment, and I am grateful to be here.”
- Suzanna Bridges-Keese
Dr. Rachel Woolf, UTSA
HAPPENING AROUND THE NEST
Assistant Professor Mark Brill shares life-changing experience
teaching music
Around the Nest, amazing things have been happening with faculty and students that enrich the UTSA School of Music community through learning and growing as musicians. Mark Brill, assistant professor of musicology and world music at the University of Texas at San Antonio, recently participated in the Semester-at-Sea, run out of Colorado State University.
The program has been running since 1961. Every year, there are two voyages, in Fall and Spring, and the curriculum and faculty involved changes each voyage, bringing a large amount of diversity in studies and focuses. Brill notes some examples are music, art, engineering, oceanography, history, political science, and economics.
“We started in September in the Netherlands, then travelled on our ship, the MV Explorer, to Portugal, Morocco, Ghana, South Africa, Mauritius, India, Vietnam, Hong Kong, and ending in Thailand just before Christmas,” Brill reflects. “I taught three classes: two sections of World Music, one section of Popular Music.”
When asked about the experience of teaching while traveling across 10 countries, Brill happily notes it was a ‘life-changing experience.’ It’s a rare opportunity and nothing like in-country experiential learning and teaching. “The Semester-at-Sea motto is “The World is your Campus,” which is a way of using the place as your textbook,” Brill states. “We got to study people, traditions, concepts in the place where they emerge and exist, which is a very different experience from learning from a textbook or a computer monitor. Students actually experience things, rather than just learning about them. In my case, teaching the musical traditions of the places we visited was a prelude to actually experiencing live musical performances and rituals.”
Some of the memorable moments from Brill’s field programs included an evening of Fado at a local café típico, learning introductory drumming on the ship while travelling to Ghana, and dancing and drumming workshops. “Because we had done the preliminary work on the ship before arriving to Ghana, we were able to dig far deeper into our drumming and dancing, and achieved a high level of learning,” Brill notes. “Perhaps my favorite field class was taking the students to a Canto-Pop concert (similar to K-Pop, but in Cantonese) in Hong Kong. The group was called “Missy”, and the students experienced a concert unlike any of them had ever attended before. Few of the students will likely ever forget these experiences.”
The professor reflects that the students, in response to learning music in such an immersive and culturally diverse setting, were very adaptable. As the curriculum is designed around the ports visited, Brill was asked how he thinks the hands-on, place-based learning compares to a traditional classroom setting.
“When students are afforded the opportunity to experience the music directly, they almost invariably jump at the chance, and appreciate the experience that they could get through no other way,” Brill notes. “ For example, in
MarK Brill, 2024
South Africa the oceanography professor took the students on a scientific ship to study whale migration. In Lisbon, the engineering professor took the class to one of the facilities that was dredging the port…these are the kinds of on-hands experiences that can only be partially, and imperfectly, taught from a textbook.” Although the ship was always moving, they were given ample time in between ports with steady periods of teaching, sometimes, as Brill states, three to four days or up to 12.
“During this period, we would have class as usual, reflecting on the port we had just left, and preparing for the next one,” Brill notes. “In addition to the learning/teaching rewards, we were able to develop a caring learning community over the course of four months. We also had many of the features of a modern campus, including student clubs and organizations of all kinds, a wonderful counseling team, and an academic team that insisted on the highest quality education.”
As the music professor for the program, Brill was in charge of taking care of the musical needs not just for the students in his classes but the entire ship as well. For example, he offered drum workshops for students who desired to attend and for the entire SAS community.
“ I ended up doing 18 drum sessions, to over 200 students, faculty and staff, and I also organized the makeshift rock band on the ship, which gave several performances, taught sea shanties to the student body, and organized convocation musical performances,” Brill states. “Additionally, every faculty member was responsible for delivering a serious lecture to the shipboard community on an academic subject of their choice. My lecture was a discussion of the Music of the Vietnam War, delivered a few days before we reached Vietnam.”
Brill discussed his collection of world music instruments, including bringing back a Japanese koto, and still aspires to bring back a gamelan gong from Thailand. “I always try to add to my collection of musical instruments when I travel, which are then always useful in my World Music classes,” Brill states. “This time around, I meant to bring back a gamelan gong from Thailand, but when I saw the koto at an antique shop, I had to get it. (The gong will have to wait.) I am currently learning to play it. Hopefully I’ll be able to do some kind of performance at some point.”
Professor Brill encourages UTSA students to consider Semester-at-Sea for a future experience, especially in line with travelling abroad. The last time a UTSA student went on the experience was during Brill’s previous voyage in 2016.
“Tuition on SAS is of course somewhat hefty, though in line with that of many private institutions, but the program also offers a lot of scholarships and other financial aid, including employment on the ship,” he notes. “Studying abroad in general is always a great idea, because travel always expands one’s experience and understanding of the world. There are many programs available at the Study Abroad office, including UTSA-led programs. Hopefully Semester-at-Sea is one that UTSA students will consider for future experiences. It is truly a program like no other.”
- Suzanna Bridges-Keese
MarK Brill, 2024
UTSA Mariachi Launches Inaugural Voces del Álamo Vocal Competition
The powerful, emotive sound of mariachi singing is more than just music—it’s storytelling, tradition, and heart. This spring, UTSA Mariachi is launching its first-ever Voces del Álamo Vocal Competition, an exciting event designed to celebrate and uplift young mariachi vocalists.
Taking place March 30, 2025, at the UTSA School of Music Recital Hall, this competition is open to students in elementary, middle, and high school who have a passion for mariachi and a desire to hone their craft. But Voces del Álamo is more than just a competition—it’s an opportunity for young performers to receive expert feedback, develop their artistry, and connect with professionals in the field.
Competitors will be judged by a prestigious panel of adjudicators, including a UTSA vocal professor with expertise in vocal pedagogy, a professional mariachi vocalist with extensive performance experience, and a mariachi ensemble director who understands the intricacies of live performance. This well-rounded approach ensures that each participant receives valuable, constructive feedback, helping them refine their and deepen their understanding of mariachi vocal performance. The stakes are high—finalists won’t just compete for recognition, but also for exciting cash prizes. First-place winners will receive $300, second-place winners will earn $200, and third-place winners will take home $100.
Beyond the financial awards, the top winners from both age categories will receive the honor of opening for the UTSA Mariachi Final Recital on May 6, 2025, an incredible opportunity to perform for a wider audience and further solidify their place in the mariachi community. Unlike many vocal competitions, Voces del Álamo isn’t just about hitting the right notes—it’s about embracing the soul of mariachi. Mariachi vocals demand a blend of technical precision, emotional expression, and stage presence, and this competition is designed to help young singers cultivate all of these skills.
“Mariachi is more than music—it’s storytelling, history, and emotion all woven into every note,” says Michael Acevedo, UTSA Vocal Professor and event organizer. “With this competition, we’re giving students a chance to refine their skills and receive feedback from professionals who truly understand the art of mariachi singing.”
Whether you’re a student ready to take the stage or a mariachi enthusiast excited to support the next generation of talent, Voces del Álamo promises to be an unforgettable event. For more details and to register, visit the official event page. For any questions, contact Michael Acevedo at Michael.Acevedo@utsa.edu.
Voces del Álamo is set to become a hallmark event for young mariachi vocalists. By blending competition with mentorship and live performance, UTSA Mariachi is creating a space where students can grow, learn, and take their passion for mariachi to the next level.
- Joey Berrios
UTSA Chamber Singers Invited to Perform at National ACDA Conference
The UTSA Chamber Singers have been honored with an invitation to perform at the 2025 National ACDA Conference, one of the most prestigious choral events in the world. This invitation, extended by ACDA Vice President Dr. Edith Copley, is a huge recognition of the ensemble’s talent and hard work. The conference, set for March in Dallas, Texas, brings together choral professionals, educators, and students from across the country and beyond.
UTSA’s Chamber Singers will perform Jake Runestad’s Earth Symphony on March 22 at the iconic Meyerson Symphony Center, closing out the final concert of the conference. Being selected for this event highlights the strength of UTSA’s choral program and provides students with an unforgettable artistic and educational experience. The invitation is not only a recognition of their musical excellence but also an opportunity for them to connect with the broader choral community, gaining valuable insight and inspiration for their future careers.
Being chosen to perform at ACDA is a huge deal. It places the Chamber Singers among some of the top college ensembles in Texas, including Baylor University, UT-Arlington, and the Baylor Orchestra. This opportunity not only reflects the quality of UTSA’s choral program but also elevates its reputation on a national level.
For the students, the experience is about more than just performing. The conference offers the chance to learn from top choral professionals, attend workshops, and witness outstanding performances. It’s an opportunity to grow both musically and professionally while also showcasing UTSA’s talent on a national stage. Being in the presence of so many accomplished musicians and educators fosters an environment of inspiration, pushing the students to achieve even greater heights in their musical journey.
For the singers, this invitation is both exciting and surreal. Vocalist, and UTSA Chamber singer, Sophie Andersen shared her reaction to the news: “I felt a mix of emotions—shock, excitement, and a little bit of nerves. Performing at ACDA is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I’m so grateful we get to be part of it,” Andersen says. Preparing for such a high-profile performance has been a rewarding challenge. Andersen says rehearsals have taken on a new intensity as the ensemble works to perfect every detail.
“Early on, we focused on learning notes and rhythms through sectionals. Now that we have the music down, we’ve been working on making it more expressive and dynamic,” Andersen states. One of the most powerful moments in rehearsal was a discussion about the lyrics of Earth Symphony. “We really took the time to analyze the text and find our own interpretations. That helped us connect with the piece on a much deeper level, and I think it’s going to make our performance even more powerful,” Andersen reflects.
By discussing and internalizing the meaning of the music, the singers have developed a more profound con-
UTSA Chamber Singers
nection to their performance. This depth of understanding is what transforms a good performance into a truly moving experience, allowing the audience to feel the emotion behind each note.
Andersen believes this performance will leave a lasting impact—not just for the Chamber Singers but for UTSA’s School of Music as a whole. “Performing at ACDA will put UTSA on the map for choir directors across the country. People will see that our program is something special,” Andersen says.
On a personal level, she sees it as a defining moment in her musical journey. “This is an experience I’ll carry with me forever. If I ever start to doubt my path in choral music, I’ll be able to look back on this and remember why I love it,” Andersen states.
Beyond their own performance, Andersen is looking forward to seeing other choirs, attending concerts, and making connections in the choral community. “I’m especially excited for the President’s Concert, but really, I just can’t wait to soak it all in,” Andersen reflects.
The chance to engage with other musicians, learn from industry leaders, and witness breathtaking performances is what makes this conference such a transformative experience. It’s not just about showcasing UTSA’s talent— it’s about bringing back knowledge and inspiration that will shape the program for years to come.
After the conference, the Chamber Singers hope to bring back a renewed passion for choral music to UTSA. “I hope this experience inspires the whole school. I want our excitement and passion to be contagious,” Andersen states. What they learn at ACDA will influence their rehearsals, performances, and overall approach to choral singing. Exposure to new techniques, innovative interpretations, and diverse perspectives will help elevate the standard of choral music at UTSA.
Being invited to perform at ACDA is a milestone achievement for the UTSA Chamber Singers. It’s a moment that recognizes their dedication, elevates the university’s reputation, and provides an unforgettable experience for the students involved. When they step onto the stage at the Meyerson Symphony Center, they won’t just be performing—they’ll be making history.
And when they return, they’ll be bringing that experience, knowledge, and inspiration back home, helping UTSA’s choral program reach even greater heights.
- Suzanna Bridges-Keese
UTSA Chamber Singers, Coates Chapel
