GCSU Keynotes

Dana Gorzelany-Mostak, co-editor

Jennifer Flory, co-editor, layout and design coordinator

Holiday greetings to all of our friends and supporters both far and near! It has been another exciting semester in the Department of Music. Our fall was full with many exciting concerts and events, including appearances by guest artists, Joshua Pifer (cello), Alexis Lee (cello), Jared Cummings (saxophone), Ziqing Guan (flute), and Leonard Foy (trumpet). As a department, we take great pride in welcoming talented musicians to our beautiful campus and giving our students the opportunity to learn from accomplished artists and teachers. Inspired by these experiences, our students gave many memorable performances of their own this semester! While we as faculty are always thrilled to watch our students performing on stage, presenting a paper at a conference, or premiering a new composition, we are always reminded of the smaller, less public accomplishments that take place in the classroom and studio each day. We are grateful to be a part of these moments, no matter how small, as it is these small triumphs that propel our students to even greater heights when they move beyond the doors of Porter Hall and into the bigger world that is waiting for them. In this holiday season, we are filled with gratitude to have you as a part of our journey and theirs.

Wishing you a peaceful and prosperous holiday season!

Dana Gorzelany-Mostak & Jennifer Flory

musicnewsletter@gcsu.edu

This fall the Department of Music welcomed one of its largest freshman music classes as did GCSU with a class of over 1800 students. We are still offering a live-streaming option for many concerts and events to maintain a strong relationship with our audience.

Our music faculty have actively pursued their research and various creative projects, and many have received invitations and awards during the Fall 2023 semester. Laurie Peebles was selected as a Governor’s Teaching Fellow for the 2023-24 academic year. During her professional leave this fall, Dana Gorzelany-Mostak’ s book, Tracks on the Trail: Popular Music, Race, and the US Presidency, was released in October. David Johnson was invited to pen the program notes for the 2023-24 Savannah Philharmonic Season. Five GCSU voice students competed in the National Association of Teachers of Singing Competition (NATS) at Reinhardt University in early November. All students were successful in qualifying to compete in the regional NATS, and two placed first and second in the Musical Theatre and Classical Junior Treble categories. Dana Gorzelany-Mostak and Jennifer Flory rolled out their website, “Songs of Political Persuasion,” funded by GCSU Academic Affairs Small Grant and the Hampsong Education Fellowship in American Song.

Elise Allen presented at the Midwest Band Conference in Chicago in December 2023. The GCSU Saxophone Choir, directed by Andrew Allen, is invited to participate in the United States Navy Band International Saxophone Symposium at George Mason University in January 2024.

The Department of Music has continued to host a diverse array of concerts, recitals, and workshops led by both our own faculty and guest artists. Our 2023–24 concert series features over 43 performances (live-streamed and in-person performances). The 5th Annual Jazz at Magnolia Fest featured guest trumpeter/clinician Lennie Foy with the Faculty Jazz Combo and GCSU Student Combo directed by Chris Enghauser (part-time bass instructor). The Department presented its first Music Department Honors Recital, featuring eleven outstanding student performers selected by the music faculty.

The Holiday Concert had its largest audience since 2018 with over 790 in-person and over 90 via Facebook live-stream. The evening was particularly special with the GCSU orchestra featuring guest soloist David Coucheron, concertmaster for Atlanta Symphony Orchestra—another first for us! We look forward to hosting pianist and musicologist, Dr. Evren Kutlay, our Newell Scholar for the Spring 2024, producing our biannual Terry Endowed Concert Series in March 2024, and our Jazz Fest in April with guest artist Joe Gransden. Check out our 2023–24 concert series and events on our website for more details.

We have continued to pursue community outreach opportunities. The GCSU jazz groups (Faculty Jazz Combo, Student Jazz Combo and the GCSU Big Band were featured at Deep Roots 2023 for the first time. Music therapy students presented the Creative Expressions concert, The Grassroots, at the Life Enrichment Center. The Center for Music Education, under the direction of Tina Holmes-Davis, has been recognized by the administration as a formal center on campus. There are several workshops that continue to be offered and posted as part of the ongoing Knowledge Box for area music directors and educators.

We have implemented the action items outlined in our five-year departmental strategic plan along with the campus strategic plan (Imagine 2030). We are waiting for a response regarding our AMTA re-approval application submitted in June 2023. We are moving forward with the approved construction of a new music practice facility (7,000 sq. ft) with Phase I completed (concert band, orchestra, and jazz band rehearsal space and related practice rooms) and starting the design for Phase II (choral rehearsal space with practice and storage areas). With this welcome addition, we anticipate breaking ground in March 2024 on both phases pending the approval of additional funding with possible completion in late Fall 2024.

We have had success with on-campus workshops for area students with High School Choral Day in September and the GCSU Wind, Brass, and Percussion Workshop in November, and we will continue with our monthly Zoom-in meetings for prospective students in coordination with the Office of Admissions. Lastly, four faculty joined us this semester—Chris Hendley (part-time voice/history/ensemble), Samantha Frischling (part-time voice), Jacob Hill (part-time oboe) and Victor Pires (part-time trumpet).

Please take time to read this newsletter which provides a snapshot of the numerous achievements of our students and faculty. We look forward to staying connected with all of our students, alumni, and Friends of Music. Take care of yourselves and enjoy your holiday season.

Don N. Parker

Chair, Department of Music

Professor of Music

The GCSU bands just wrapped up a busy fall semester of music-making. At the October Wind Symphony Concert, junior music major and 2023 Concerto Winner Preston Raburn delighted the audience with his impressive alto saxophone solo on the ensemble’s performance of Jules Demerrsseman’s Carnival of Venice. After many years of performing on two consecutive nights, the GCSU Jazz Band replaced their Thursday night show with a community performance at the annual Deep Roots Festival in downtown Milledgeville. The Friday night show entertained the Russell Auditorium audience as usual. Finally, this fall’s Marching Band Techniques students were able to benefit from the expertise of several guest lecturers invited by Cliff Towner. Thank you to Marcus Hawkins (percussion instructor at Georgia Tech), Pat Bauer (band director at Deer Park High School in Cincinnati, Ohio), and Miguel Guisasola (band director at Flowery Branch High School) for giving our students a variety of practical perspectives on marching band pedagogy. The GCSU bands are looking forward to great things this spring including the Terry Endowed Concert Series, Joe Gransden’s residency for JazzFest, and our annual Music at the Mansion performance.

This semester, we welcomed our new trumpet instructor, Mr. Victor Pires! Mr. Pires was born in Bauru in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. He holds a bachelor’s degree in trumpet performance from the University of Campinas, with Dr. Paulo Ronqui as his trumpet instructor, and a master’s degree in trumpet performance from Georgia State University, where he studied with Dr. Alex Freund. In 2022, Mr. Pires won 1st prize at the International Trumpet Guild Competition in the Orchestral Excerpts division, and in 2023, 3rd prize at the National Trumpet Competition in the Graduate Solo division. Mr. Pires is currently working on his DMA in trumpet performance at the University of Georgia, studying with Mr. Phillip Smith.

Max Noah Singers (MNS) auditions expanded our group to twenty-four. We had our annual September retreat at First Presbyterian Church and finished with dinner at Metropolis. Less than two weeks later, we joined the Trax on the Trail team for the Constitution Week concert, “Tunes from the Trail: A Program Featuring Music from U.S. Presidential Campaigns, 1840-1964” in Magnolia Ballroom. And, at the end of the following week, we welcomed over forty-five high school students from four high schools and their teachers for our annual High School Choral Day.

MNS joined with University Chorus (UC) and Women’s Ensemble (WE) to present our fall concert, Epic Myths and Legends, at First Baptist Church. This concert featured choral works on the topics of mythology and folklore. These stories come from a variety of cultures, including Alaska Native, First Nations, Greek, Haitian, Native American, Norse, Onondaga Nation, Scottish, Taiwanese, and Yoruban. The choirs performed works by such noteworthy composers as Carol Barnett, Edward Elgar, George Frideric Handel, Judy A. Rose, and Randall Z. Stroope. Choral conductors for the concert included Jennifer Flory, Tyler Harris, and Hallie Thompson. The choirs were joined by pianists Lev Ryabinin and Hue Jang and the following special guest musicians: Jared Bryant (oboe); Calista Koch (harp); Steven Taylor (cello); Breanna Thompson (trumpet); and Mia Eaton, Cameron Sparks, Rob Sumowski (percussion). We are ever so grateful for the hospitality and assistance of the First Baptist Church in Milledgeville where we held our fall concert.

After the fall concert, UC and WE turned their attention to the department holiday concert, and MNS began in earnest learning a full concert of music for our December tour. A subset of MNS sang for the Veterans Day Moment of Reflection, and the Treble Quartet sang for Hanging of the Greens. All three choral ensembles performed in the 16th annual department holiday concert. Under the direction of Christopher Hendley, WE collaborated with part-time faculty member Steven Taylor (cello) and staff pianist Hue Jang on a beautiful arrangement of “Still, Still, Still.” They were then joined by part-time faculty member Elise Allen (flute), public health graduate student Jared Bryant (oboe), and BA+MAT major Riley Greer (drum), for the premiere of Hendley’s fun arrangement of “He Is Born.” The MNS Bass Quartet performed their traditional “The Twelve Days of Christmas (What the Heck Was That?)” and the MNS Treble Quartet performed an arrangement of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” MNS performed two of their toncert tour pieces: a Pentatonix arrangement of “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” and a Hanukkah song, “Hanerot Halalu.” UC sang an arrangement of “Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day” and were joined by percussionists Gray Sumowski, Cameron Sparks, and Mia Eaton to perform “Betelehemu” while surrounding the audience.

The very next day, MNS performed almost their entire tour concert three times for the Old Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Tours. After putting the finishing touches on the tour repertoire during the last week of classes, and surviving finals week, on the following Sunday, December 17, MNS met at the Irwin Street bus lot to depart on our 2023 Tour. We performed at the following churches: Haddock Baptist Church (Haddock), Westminster Presbyterian Church (Warner Robins), and First Presbyterian Church (Milledgeville). We visited the following schools to sing and recruit: Monroe County Middle School (Forsyth) and Mossy Creek Middle School (Warner Robins). And, we brought holiday joy to the residents of the following assisted-living facilities: Autumn Lane (Gray), Lynn Haven (Gray), Fellowship at Meriwether (Milledgeville), Savannah Court (Milledgeville), Green Acres (Milledgeville), The Cottages (Milledgeville), and The Glen at Lake Oconee (Greensboro). On December 20, we performed our homecoming concert in Milledgeville for an appreciative audience of community members and family.

In closing, we would like to thank the Department of Music staff and administration and the team at GC Production Services, led by Keith Bergeron, for all of their work assisting in planning, promoting, publicizing, and live-streaming our events.

On September 16, 2023, the 6th Jazz at the Magnolia community fundraiser was presented with support from Allied Arts and performances by the GC Faculty Jazz Combo and the GCSU Student Jazz Combo (Chris Enghauser, director). The event also featured a performance with the GDC trio (Geoff Haydon, piano; Chris Enghauser, bass; Don Parker, percussion) with guest trumpet, Lennie Foy. Assisted by the GDC trio, Foy also presented an improvisation clinic attended by GCSU students, community members, and GCSU faculty. October 21, 2023, was downtown Milledgeville’s annual day to shine with the 20th iteration of the Deep Roots Festival, and this year the GCSU Department of Music helped jazz up the festivities. The GCSU jazz combo, faculty jazz ensemble, and jazz band all performed for the community at the Union-Recorder Locals Only Stage. Festival goers were treated to some excellent afternoon music under sunny skies on N. Wayne Street, including charts such as St. Thomas, Tenor Madness, and Sway. The ensembles enjoyed the opportunity to partner with the community and lend their talents to support this cherished local event.

On April 27, the Department of Music presented Sound Sculptures XVIII: The World Around Us, a concert of original electronic music by GCSU students. Featured works included Michael Marcinko’s collaboration with Ethan Chase on piano for a performance of How it Was: A College Chronology for piano and electronics; composer Ellie Deener’s collaboration with violinist Taylor Doyle for a performance of Realisations for violin and electronics; and Sara Carr’s riveting performance of her original work Monoroof, also for violin and electronics. Music therapy faculty Gabrielle Banzon also contributed to the concert with her A Day in the Life Remix (Oh Boy).

Theory and composition professor David Johnson had several noteworthy performances this year. In January, his 5 Melodies for cello and piano were performed by faculty colleagues Hue Jang and Stephen Taylor at Wesleyan College in Macon, GA, and Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, GA. In February, Johnson’s composition Night for Night was featured in a brand new CD released by Common Tone Records—A View From My Window—a compilation of new works for trumpet and piano. In October, Johnson composed original music for Georgia College Theatre’s production of These Shining Lives, and faculty colleagues Bryan Hall and Owen Lovell premiered his new showpiece Rhapsody for a Wandering Heart (for violin and piano) at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, GA.

The 17th World Congress of Music Therapy took place in Vancouver, Canada from July 24 to 29. Georgia College was represented by music therapy senior Sara Carr, and professors Gabrielle Banzon and Laurie Peebles. We had a wonderful time networking with music therapists from around the world and hearing about new research in our field.

It was another busy semester in the music therapy programs. We were very fortunate to host eight different professional guest speakers throughout the semester to provide students with the opportunity to learn from leaders in the field. We are grateful for faculty from other universities and business owners who shared their expertise with our students including Dr. Susan Hadley from Slippery Rock University, Chris Millet from Louisville University, Dr. Karleen Murphy from SUNY New Paltz, and Lydia Baker, owner and director of Resonating Rhythm. We also hosted several guest speaker presentations featuring alumni from GCSU, including Jay Warren at the Life Enrichment Center, Bess McIntire at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Annabeth and Riley Williams at Florida State Hospital, and Erin Kelly at the MT Clinic of GCSU and Small Steps, Inc.

This past semester seven practicum students completed approximately 315 clinical hours in our local community, providing services to infants, children, and adolescents across six different locations, including the Baldwin County Schools’ Programs for Exceptional Children, Georgia Academy for the Blind, Therapeutic Services of Baldwin County, Learning Safari, Little Caterpillars Development Center, and Montessori Academy. These students presented their case study data at the End of Semester Seminar on December 8, 2023. Further, 4th-year music therapy students, Kelsey Foster, Campbell Ransom, Oliver Sanchez-Torres, and Helen Whitacre presented an in-service, Technology in Music Therapy. Students had the opportunity to learn about and explore different equipment used in music therapy, such as digital audio workstations (DAW), digital stethoscopes to record cardiopulmonary activity, midi instruments, and open/closed circuit boards like the Makey Makey.

On November 16th the Music Therapy Program and the Life Enrichment Center presented Grassroots, a production featuring musicians with disAbilities and seventeen music therapy students in the Creative Expressions Performance Groups. This year’s theme, “Back Porch Celebration,” featured songs such as Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” Chris Stapleton’s “Tennessee Whiskey,” Lyn’s “Sweet Home Alabama,” the Charlie Daniels Band’s “Devil Went Down to Georgia,” and a melody of the late Jimmy Buffett’s music. Music therapy faculty also hosted two professional CMTE’s for the Music Therapy Association of Georgia, online and on the GCSU campus. Ms. Susan Craig presented a five-hour workshop on Music Therapy Ethics and Katie Whipple presented a five-hour workshop on the use of Soundtrap, a free and accessible DAW. Both students and alumni were in attendance.

A big congratulations to Sara Carr, Lila Finke, Chloe McDargh, Mallory McDonald, Moriah Treadwell, Aliyah Walker, and Lina Williams who completed their music therapy internships this fall and are now eligible to sit for the national board certification exam.

Nine students participated in the Opera Scenes class this fall. It marked a significant milestone as we programmed all scenes in English, featuring works such as Susannah by Carlisle Floyd, Candide by Leonard Bernstein, Old Maid and the Thief by Gian Carlo Menotti, The Ballad of Baby Doe by Douglas Moore, and Die Fledermaus by Johann Strauss II.

Our performance, Innocence and Intrigue, held on November 15, showcased the collaborative efforts of Youngmi Kim and Camilla Packroff, who directed the music and did some staging, and Lev Ryabinin who provided accompaniment. The scenes from Old Maid and the Thief and Die Fledermaus were directed by Addie Resh, while Richard Guyton took the helm in directing the scene from Candide. The evening was a testament to the dedication and talent of all involved. And notably, this performance drew the largest audience we’ve had.

We kept our fall piano studio recital tradition going, but instead of waiting until the end of week six, the crowded semester calendar had us playing the concert on September 24, the end of week five— an even bigger challenge for the studio! Continuing our alternation between traditional and less traditional years for repertoire selection, we moved from playing duets last year to Music of Women Composers this year. The audience was treated to 14 soloists playing the 1889 Burrell Steinway in the Magnolia Ballroom, ranging from beginning pianists registered for non-major lessons, to piano minors, piano majors, and even piano studio alumni. The students and Lovell are already scheming what next year’s piano studio recital theme might be.

Guest pianists Dr. Josh Pifer (Valdosta State University) and Dr. Giuliano Graniti (Middle Georgia State University) came to campus this semester to give concerts and meet our students, and we will bring Dr. Pifer back in the spring to do a masterclass with two GCSU piano students. We look forward to welcoming visiting Newell Scholar and Turkish pianist, Dr. Evren Kutlay, for the spring semester.

This semester was a very exciting semester for strings and the Orchestra. The Orchestra started with a collaboration with Richmond Hill High School in October, where we played a variety of repertoire with the high schoolers, and also presented Vivaldi’s “Winter” from the Four Seasons with David Johnson playing the solo. Then, the Orchestra played a concert with Lizzy Galloway performing a solo by Serge Koussevitsky with us. The program also included a collaboration with the Concertmaster of Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, Calin Lupanu. Lupanu also did a masterclass with our upper strings studio. We finished the year with a conductorless performance of Vivaldi’s “Winter” with the concertmaster of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, David Coucheron, as our guest soloist at the 16th Annual Holiday Concert. Coucheron also gave a guest masterclass for our upper strings studio. Next semester, we look forward to collaborating with the Dekalb School of the Arts High School Orchestra on February 22. We will also be featured in the Terry Endowed Concert on March 14, with singer Riley Greer, Concerto Competition winner at GCSU. There will also be a guest artist residency with Boise Youth Orchestra conductor, Jennifer Drake. Jennifer Drake will also work with our violists. We will also host Barney Culver, an Atlanta area cello teacher and artist, to work with our cello and bass players. There will be a chamber music concert on March 28 featuring our faculty in collaboration with Barney Culver and Jennifer Drake. The Orchestra will finish its year with a performance at the Music at the Mansion concert on April 20 here in Milledgeville.

In the fall, the voice area proudly introduced our comprehensive voice area handbook, providing students and faculty with a centralized source of information. Throughout the semester, the accomplishments of our voice students were notable both on and off campus.

In October, seven talented voice students—Tyler Harris, Riley Greer, MacK Arrington, Addison Resh, Anna Ogletree, Rachel Jenkins, and Joseph Johnson—delivered outstanding performances at our inaugural Department Honors Recital.

Continuing their success, voice students Riley Greer, Anna Ogletree, MacK Arrington, Shani Thompson, and Aidan Fortenberry participated in the Georgia NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing) audition at Reinhardt University in November. All of them were eligible to compete at regional auditions. Notably, Anna Ogletree achieved first place in the Musical Theater 7A category (junior) and performed at the winner’s concert, while Riley Greer secured second place in the Classical 7A category (junior).

Our guest artist, Dr. Marcel Ramalho, a baritone and professor at Augusta University, gave a masterclass and recital in November. Congratulations to Kelsey Foster, MacK Arrington, and Aidan Fortenberry for their exceptional performances during the masterclass. Additionally, Youngmi Kim presented a chamber recital in September, featuring guest cellist Dr. Alexis Lee and pianist Lev Ryabinin.

Adding to our team, we welcomed a new voice instructor this fall. Samantha Frishling, holding a master of music in voice from the Mannes School of Music in New York City, will teach more voice majors in the upcoming spring semester.

The saxophone studio’s Preston Raburn (junior BA/MAT) was honored as the 2023 Concerto Competition co-winner, and was a featured soloist on Jules Demersseman’s Carnival of Venice with the GCSU Wind Symphony in their concert in October!

The saxophone studio presented a recital in October, with chamber and solo works from our nine excellent majors! Just after the new year, the entire studio will be making a trip to northern Virginia for an invited performance by the GCSU Saxophone Choir at the United States Navy Band International Saxophone Symposium, a prestigious conference hosted by the Navy’s premier musical ensemble at George Mason University.

• 2023 Tour Outreach Performances
• Autumn Lane, Gray, GA, December 17, 2023
• Lynn Haven, Gray, GA, December 17, 2023
  
• Fellowship Home at Meriwether, Milledgeville, GA, December 19, 2023
  
• Savannah Court of Milledgeville, GA, December 19, 2023
• Green Acres, Milledgeville, GA, December 19, 2023
• The Cottages of Milledgeville at Woodland Terrace, GA, December 19, 2023
  
• The Glen at Lake Oconee Village, Greensboro, GA, December 20, 2023
• 2023 Tour Recruiting Performances
• Monroe County Middle School, Forsyth, GA, December 18, 2023
• Mossy Creek Middle School, Kathleen, GA, December 18, 2023

Fall 2023 marked the third iteration of Bobcat Keys, our volunteer after-school outreach program with Wilkinson County Elementary School. Part of GCSU’s Center for Music Education, Bobcat Keys gave eleven, 3rd through 5th-grade students the chance to come to our campus weekly and take beginner group piano lessons in our state-of-the-art piano lab. Lessons were taught by volunteer GCSU piano majors and minors who previously took the elective Piano Pedagogy course with Owen Lovell: Ethan Chase, Lynsey Blevins, and Ella Velimirovich. These students generously donated twenty hours of their time this semester to give a wonderful opportunity to deserving students in our community. Bobcat Keys always concludes with a formal recital on the new Steinway D in Max Noah Recital Hall, where each student performs two pieces, accompanied by one of the volunteer teachers. This year’s concert was a great success, and we live-streamed it for the first time: https://youtu.be/JFKYjP2b-Qc?si=Rxrk5TAhAzwfe2pC.

We recently hosted our 5th Annual GCSU Winds and Percussion Workshop in November! Students from all over middle Georgia came to receive help on instrumental fundamentals and the 2023–2024 GMEA All-State etudes from GCSU winds and percussion faculty! Stay tuned for the dates for next year’s event!

This past September, we hosted over forty-five high school students from four high schools and their teachers for our annual High School Choral Day. We began the day with registration followed by rehearsals, a vocal masterclass, lunch with Max Noah Singers, more rehearsals, and a campus tour. The day culminated in a performance of the following repertoire: The Challenge of Thor from Scenes from King Olaf, Edward Elgar; Light from Above, Richard Nance; and Yemaya Assessu: A Hymn of Thanksgiving, arr. Judy A. Rose.

The GC Combo continued with their performances on and off campus during the Fall 2023 semester. The combo consisted of the following members: Lucas Donnelly and Matthew Odom, piano; Lizzy Galloway, bass; Alex Burch, trumpet; Noah Turner, tenor saxophone; Ray Khalon, trombone; and Gray Sumowski, drums, with Chris Enghauser as director. The groups performed at a variety of events, including the monthly Jazz Jams, Jazz at the Magnolia, the Fall Chamber Ensemble Concert, and a first-time appearance at the Deep Roots Festival.

Stephen Hoy attended the Southeast Trombone Symposium at Columbus State University this past June. His Houston County High School bass trombone student, Robbie Kan, earned a spot as a semi-finalist in the eighteen and under solo competition. Robbie received coaching from Megumi Kanda, principal trombone of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, and George Curran, bass trombonist of the New York Philharmonic.

Where are you from? I’m originally from a small town in Tennessee called Gainesboro.

Why did you choose music as a career? I started playing saxophone when I was ten, and instantly became infatuated with it. By the time I was thirteen, I knew I wanted to teach and play music for the rest of my life. Everything since has been one rather monomaniacal journey towards that dream.

What attracted you to the Department of Music at Georgia College and how long have you been here? Ever since grad school, I knew I wanted to be in an institution where I could pursue my varied interests in music, and where I could have close contact with students. When this position opened, I knew I had found the perfect fit. Plus, it’s close to family, which made the deal even better! I’ve very happily been here since the Fall of 2019!

What is your favorite class to teach and why? I love all the teaching I get to do here, but it’s a tie between saxophone lessons and saxophone quartet for my favorite. In lessons, I get to work with students for three or four years and see their growth through all of the stages of development into young professionals. In the quartet, we get to work on developing students’ skills as interpreters by giving them agency in the development of their own ensembles. Both of these things warm a teacher’s heart!

What is your applied and/or research area? I’m a performing saxophonist who focuses on new and emerging concert repertoire, and I’m also a researcher of the saxophone, specializing in early- to mid-20th-century saxophone pedagogy and history.

What words of advice would you give to students thinking about coming to Georgia College to major in music/music therapy? Do it!!! This is a fantastic place, filled with incredible, warm, welcoming students!

• Andrew J. Allen, Palmetto Saxophone Quartet, guest recital, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, NC, October 25, 2023.
• Andrew J. Allen, Palmetto Saxophone Quartet, guest recital, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, October 24, 2023.
• Andrew J. Allen, Guest masterclass, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, October 24, 2023.
• Andrew J. Allen, Palmetto Saxophone Quartet, guest recital, University of Tennessee at Martin, Martin, TN, October 23, 2023.
• Andrew J. Allen, Guest masterclass, University of Tennessee at Martin, Martin, TN, October 23, 2023.
• Andrew J. Allen, Palmetto Saxophone Quartet, guest recital, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, October 22, 2023.
• Andrew J. Allen, Guest masterclass, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, October 22, 2023.
• Andrew J. Allen, Palmetto Saxophone Quartet, guest recital, Sigal Music Museum, Greenville, SC, October 19, 2023.
• Andrew J. Allen, Selmer Masterclass: Andrew J. Allen, Saxophone (Pedagogical video lessons and handouts commissioned by the Conn-Selmer Corporation) Summer 2023, https://www.musicprofessor.com/courses/take/andrew-j-allen-saxophone/lessons/45394646-start-here.

• Andrew J. Allen, Elise Naber Allen, and Lev Ryabinin, faculty recital, GCSU, Milledgeville, GA, September 28, 2023.
• Elise Naber Allen, Cecilia Clark, Tiffiny Reckley, and Liz Savage, “Pumps on the Podium–It’s Not About the Shoes! Amplifying the Female Role in Your Band Room,” Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, Chicago, IL, December 19, 2023.
• Susan Craig, “Music Therapy Ethics: A Review of the AMTA Competencies and the Code of Ethics,” Music Therapy Association of Georgia, GCSU, Milledgeville, GA, September 30, 2023.

• Chris Enghauser, “Lupitas Revenge,” National Puppetry Convention, University of Maryland College Park, College Park, MD.
• Chris Enghauser, John Shapley Octet, Red Light Café, Decatur, GA.
• Chris Enghauser, Augusta Symphony Orchestra, Fall 2023 season performances.
• Chris Enghauser, Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra, Fall 2023 season performances.
• Chris Enghauser, Carrollton Jazz Orchestra, Fall 2023 season performances.
• Chris Enghauser, Toccoa Symphony Orchestra, Fall 2023 season performances.
• Chris Enghauser, “Holiday Hustle Club,” recording; and Fall 2023 season performances.

• Jennifer Flory, "Epic Myths and Legends;" Women's Ensemble, Max Noah Singers, University Chorus, combined choirs; student ensemble concert; First Baptist Church, Milledgeville, GA; October 14, 2023.

• Jennifer Flory, "16th Annual Departmental Holiday Concert;" University Chorus, combined choirs; student ensemble concert; Russell Auditorium, Milledgeville, GA; December 1, 2023.

• Jennifer Flory, "2023 Max Noah Singers Tour Concert," Max Noah Singers, student ensemble concert.
• Haddock Baptist Church, Haddock, GA, December 17, 2023
• Westminster Presbyterian Church, Warner Robins, GA, December 18, 2023
• First Presbyterian Church, Milledgeville, GA, December 20, 2023

• Dana Gorzelany-Mostak, Tracks on the Trail: Popular Music, Race, and the US Presidency (Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press, 2023).
• Dana Gorzelany-Mostak, Trax on the Trail: An Interactive Campaign Music Website for Educators, Scholars, and the Public, www.traxonthetrail.com.
• Dana Gorzelany-Mostak, “Selling Sweet Songs and Vicious Fraud: Music and Patent-Medicine Advertising, 1890–1906,” American Musicological Society Conference, Denver, CO, November 12, 2023.

• Dana Gorzelany-Mostak and Jennifer Flory, Songs of Political Persuasion: Hearing Music on the U.S. Presidential Campaign Trail, 1840-1918, www.songsofpoliticalpersuasion.com.

• Bryan Hall, Guest director residency, Hickory, NC middle schools, starting January 2024.
  
• Bryan Hall, Dvorak Violin Concerto, Balcones Community Orchestra, Austin TX, November 19, 2023.
• Bryan Hall, Premiered Rhapsody for a Wandering Heart (for violin and piano) by David Johnson, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Tifton, GA, with Owen Lovell, October 3. 2023.
• Bryan Hall, Guest concertmaster and guest conductor, Western Piedmont Symphony Orchestra, Hickory, NC, 2023–2024 season.
• Bryan Hall, Substitute violinist for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, and Charleston Symphony Orchestra.

• Youngmi Kim, Alexis Lee, and Lev Ryabinin, “Elegant Echoes,” faculty and guest recital, GCSU, Milledgeville, GA, September 11, 2023.

• Youngmi Kim, guest artist with the Orchestra des conservatoires de Menton et Beausoleil, Basilique Saint-Michel, Menton, France, June 28, 2023.
• Youngmi Kim, guest artist with the Orchestra des conservatoires de Menton et Beausoleil, Cathedrale de Sospel, Sospel, France, June 25, 2023.

• Owen Lovell and Bryan Hall, recording of Rhapsody on a Wandering Heart by David Johnson, YouTube premiere (youtube.com/@classical_pianist), December 22, 2023.
• Owen Lovell and Bryan Hall, chamber recital, "Wandering Hearts," GCSU, Milledgeville, GA, October 5, 2023.
• Owen Lovell and Bryan Hall, chamber recital, "Wandering Hearts," Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Tifton, GA, October 3. 2023.

• Owen Lovell, “Falling in Love with Schubert’s Piano Music,” Georgia Music Teachers Association, Rome, GA, November 2, 2023.

• Laurie Peebles, “Self-Care,” guest lecture at Biola University, La Miranda, CA, November 15, 2023.

• Laurie Peebles, “Personality-Centered Supervision for Music Therapy Students,” Pecha Kuchta Presentation, World Federation of Music Therapy-World Congress of Music Therapy, Vancouver, BC, Canada, July 29, 2023.
  
• Laurie Peebles, Jennifer Stull, and Hilary Yip, “Student Supervision: Theory and Strategies for Success,” roundtable presentation, World Federation of Music Therapy-World Congress of Music Therapy, Vancouver, BC, Canada, July 28, 2023.
• Laurie Peebles, “Personality and the Quality of the Music Therapy Supervisor-Intern Relationship,” Research Poster, World Federation of Music Therapy-World Congress of Music Therapy, Vancouver, BC, Canada, July 23–29, 2023.
• Andrew Sehmann, Two arrangements for horn and piano, Songs for Children Op. 61 by Grieg, and Berceuse by Amy Beach, Faust Music.
• Katie Whipple, “Creating with Soundtrap: An Accessible Tool for MTs,” SUNY New Paltz, virtual, July 11, 2023.

• Katie Whipple, “Creating with Soundtrap: An Accessible Tool for MTs,” Music Therapy Association of Georgia, virtual, May 20, 2023.

• Andrew J. Allen was recently honored by Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity as a National Arts Associate, thanks to the nomination of the Beta Rho chapter! He continues to serve as President-Elect of the North American Saxophone Alliance through the 2024 calendar year.

• Elise Naber Allen earned her Education Specialist Degree in Music Education through Auburn University in December of 2023.
• Elise Naber Allen was accepted to the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education program at Auburn University.
• Jennifer Flory completed the HERS Leadership Institute, a transformational leadership development program for higher education professionals.

In 1992, Bill Clinton famously wielded his saxophone on The Arsenio Hall Show, channeling his childhood idol Elvis Presley. In a 2008 speech following a presidential debate, Barack Obama dismissed primary opponent Hillary Clinton’s acrimonious attacks by brushing dirt off his shoulders—a nod to Jay-Z’s track “Dirt off Your Shoulder.” The silhouette of Donald Trump slowly came into focus at the 2016 Republican National Convention as Queen’s “We Are the Champions” resonated throughout the arena. In these moments of musical engagement, the candidates were constructing not merely their presidential identities, but the identity of the American presidency as well.

Since 2006, I have worked to establish a critical framework for the analysis of popular songs within the context of the presidential campaign. A politician uses popular music to constitute their identity in sound and to assert their brand on a sonic register, offering insight into their character, their beliefs, and their values. Because of its connotative power and affective properties, popular music becomes a platform for creating a community of supporters and defining who they are as well. Clinton’s sax playing, Obama’s Jay-Z nod, and Donald Trump’s epic entrance clearly resonated with the candidates’ respective supporters, but their use of music on the campaign trail is in no way unprecedented. US politicians have used music to their advantage since the formative years of our nation.

Tracks on the Trail: Popular Music, Race, and the US Presidency (University of Michigan Press) is the outgrowth of Trax on the Trail, a GCSU-based website and research project that tracks and catalogs the soundscapes of US presidential campaigns. With chapters on Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, Ben Carson, Kamala Harris, and Donald Trump, Tracks on the Trail (the book) analyzes the official and unofficial musical activity of each campaign, shedding light on the phenomenon of campaign music and the integral role it plays in candidate identity formation. While this book draws on various critical frameworks and includes some music analyses, it is accessible to a general readership. The book is available for purchase on Amazon, but can be accessed for free here.

How will the 2024 candidates reveal their identities through music? Visit us at www.traxonthetrail.com to find out!

Where are you from? I’m from Warner Robins, Georgia

Why did you choose music as a major? Music has been a crucial part of my life since I was a kid. I’ve always loved singing in choirs and by myself, and hearing the music that is made by the blending of voices has always been one of my favorite things in the entire world. When it came time to decide what I wanted to major in, it was a very easy decision. I have known since high school that my dream is to stand in front of a choir and facilitate the making of beautiful music.

What attracted you to the Georgia College & State University music program and how long have you been here? I was drawn to a multitude of things when choosing Georgia College. I knew that the smaller class sizes would allow me to have more opportunities to build relationships with my professors and peers. I also knew that I wanted to teach, and the BA/MAT program at GCSU seemed like a fit for me. After my audition, in which I met a handful of faculty, I knew that this was the place for me. I’m now in my fourth year at Georgia College and will graduate with a BA in Music in Spring 2024.

What has been one of your favorite musical experiences in your time here? This semester’s fall concert was my first time conducting an ensemble as an undergraduate director. That experience was pivotal for me, as it was one of the first big milestones of payoff for the work that I have done for the past four years. Being able to conduct a choir and make music together is truly one of the most rewarding experiences.

What is your applied area and how have you progressed since you started lessons here? My applied area is voice, and I believe that I have progressed tremendously in my four years here. I have had a few different teachers, each of whom I have learned different things from, but all of them have taught me so much. The work that I have done with my teachers has allowed me numerous performance opportunities in my time at Georgia College, which I am incredibly grateful for. I have grown in both confidence and technical ability, both of which are very important in solo and ensemble performances.

What are your plans for after you graduate? After graduation, I plan to start the MAT and get a teaching job! I look forward to having the opportunity to inspire the same love of music in my students that I had in school, and that will remain for all of my life.

• Jacob Bryson, Austin Butts, Kelsey Carpenter, Conner Dickey, Cole Flowers, Wesley Harper, Savannah McDowell, Preston Raburn, and Autumn Taylor, Saxophone Studio Recital, GCSU, Milledgeville, GA, October 3, 2023.

• Tyler Harris and Hallie Thompson, undergraduate directors
• "Epic Myths and Legends;" Women's Ensemble, Max Noah Singers, University Chorus; First Baptist Church, Milledgeville, GA; October 14, 2023.
• "16th Annual Departmental Holiday Concert;" Women's Ensemble, Max Noah Singers, University Chorus; Russell Auditorium, Milledgeville, GA; December 1, 2023.
• "2023 Max Noah Singers Tour Concert," Max Noah Singers
• Haddock Baptist Church, Haddock, GA, December 17, 2023
• Westminster Presbyterian Church, Warner Robins, GA, December 18, 2023
• First Presbyterian Church, Milledgeville, GA, December 20, 2023

• Aliyah Walker, Lola Grant, Savannah Greene, Yalonda Wright, Roeronidneys Celestine, Max Goodman, Emily Kirkland, Anna Marti, Ellie Deener, Ethan Chase, Lynsey Blevins, Bradley Smith, Matthew Odom, Sidney Johnson, Piano Studio Recital, Music of Women Composers, Magnolia Ballroom, GCSU, Milledgeville, GA, September 24, 2023.
• Anna Ogletree, Winner Recital GA NATS, Reinhardt Unviersity, Waleska, GA, November 5, 2023.
• Anna Ogletree, Savannah Greene, Hallie Thompson, Tyler Harris, Ben McPherson, Liam Mueller, Craig Callender, Lev Ryabinin, and Max Noah Singers, dir. Jennifer Flory, performers; Victoriyah Friend, Riley Greer, and Claire Kosobud, lecturers; Dana Gorzelany-Mostak and Riley Greer, producers, Tunes from the Trail: A program featuring music from US Presidential Campaigns, 1840-1964, A Constitution Week Concert and Lecture, Magnolia Ballroom, GCSU, Milledgeville, GA, September 18, 2023.

• Katherine Carrouth (BA freshman), First Prize with her team, Agricultural Communications CDE (Career Development Event), Indianapolis, IN, November 1–4, 2023.
• Riley Greer (BA+MAT junior), Second Prize in Classical 7A (Junior Treble), Georgia NATS, Reinhardt University, Waleska, GA, November 4, 2023.
• Anna Ogletree (BMT junior), First Prize in Musical Theatre 7A (Junior Treble), Georgia NATS, Reinhardt University, Waleska, GA, November 5, 2023.
• Jaris Tobler (MME), Diverse String Teachers Professional Development Fellowship, The Bornoff Foundation for the Advancement of String Education (FASE), 2023.

Bachelor of Music Therapy

Anna Kate Alford

Jillian M. Truchan

Sara M. Carr

Lila J. Finke

Aliyah D. Walker

Chloe L. McDargh

Mallory C. McDonald

Caroline F. Williams

Master of Arts in Teaching: Music Education

Madison E. Golden

Master of Music Education

Emily Backus

Emily Boswell

Maya Broadwater

Lauren G. Davis

Peter Downey

Shantoria Enocher

Heather M. Farr

Hannah Jackson

Noah C. Jackson

Jerald S. Lancaster

James Lowry

Jeremy Ragan

Sarah B. Shiver

John Z. Williams

Marcus K. Rayner

Master of Music Therapy

Zoe A. Reddick

Moriah V. Treadwell

What year did you graduate and what degree did you receive? I graduated in December 2019 with a Bachelor of Music Therapy.

What have you been up to since you graduated from Georgia College? I have been working as at Dynamic Music Services in Indianapolis as a board certified music therapist since graduating. I am currently the Sales Manager, Marketing Manager, and Recital Coordinator. I facilitated and coordinated our first and second annual client concerts. I work with practicum students and interns as well!

What is your fondest memory from your time at Georgia College? One of my fondest memories from my time at Georgia College was performing at Carnegie Hall in New York.

In what ways did your time at Georgia College prepare you to achieve your professional goals? The ability to work with different populations first semester of college and throughout my time at Georgia College was super helpful in preparing me to achieve my professional goals.

What advice would you give to current music students? Current music students, don’t give up! I encourage you all to continue to nurture your passion for music outside of “music in school.” Finding balance in playing music for work and playing, or enjoying, music for yourself is really important!

• Sammi Acconcio (BMT '19), Employee of the Year and Feedback Friday Highlight, Dynamic Music Services, Inc., December and July 2023.
• Brianna (Riley) Barnett (BME '15, MME '22), new position as Choir Director, Laing Middle School, Charleston County School District, Fall 2023.
• Edell Brewer (MME '22), began Education Specialist in Music Education degree studies at Auburn University.
• Greg Burns (BME '08), played trumpet in the The Band Directors Marching Band! in The 2023 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade®; began Master of Music Education degree studies at University of Georgia, 2023.
• Sarah Clegg (BME '21), Pursuit of Excellence Award, Midway Hills Primary, Baldwin County School District, October 2023.
• Jay Davis (BME '00), director of the Houston County High School Wind Symphony which performed at the 2023 GMEA In-Service Conference, will be the featured ensemble at the Tri-State Honor Band at the University of Tennessee Chattanooga in January 2024, and will perform as an invited ensemble at the National Band and Orchestra Festival at Carnegie Hall in March 2024.
• Maddie Eads (BMT '20), Master of Social Work: Health/Mental Health, University of South Carolina, 2022.
• Johnny Edwards (MME '13), Teacher of the Week, Newton Rams Football, Newton County High School, Newton County School District, September 2023.
• Kirk Grizzle (BME '98), director of the Denmark High School Chamber Choir, will perform at the 2024 GMEA In-Service Conference.
• Taylor Guin (MME '22), Educational Rockstar Teacher of the Week, Elbert County Primary School, Elbert County School District, August 2023.
• Mandy (Wood) Gunter (BME '05), Teacher of the Year, Burnette Elementary School, semifinalist for GCPS 2025 Teacher of the Year Competition, Gwinnett County Public Schools, 2023.
• Chloe (Beacham) Holbrook (Music Minor '16), Ph.D. in School Psychology, Georgia State University, July 2023.
• Jazmin Hunt (BME '21, MME '22), Connect Teacher of the Year, Southfield Elementary School, Bibb County School District, 2023.
• Sidney Johnson (BMT '22), starting MM in piano pedagogy with full graduate assistantship, Georgia State University, Spring 2024.
• Michael Kobito (MME '22), new position, Teacher Recruitment & Retention Specialist, Educator Development Servives, Georgia Department of Education, Fall 2023.
• Karen Lott (MME '07), performs with the Savannah Area Flute Association and for weddings, retired in 2023.
• Jacob McDonald (BA '20), Gianni Schicchi with Georgia State Opera Theatre, Chorus Member in La bohème with Atlanta Opera, 2023. Bass Two in Voces Amicis, Atlanta, GA, 2021–present.
• Lloyd McDonald (BBA '95, BME '98), Education Specialist in Music Education, Auburn University, 2023.
• Sara Demlow McDonald (BMT '20), new position, Perfect Harmony Health, June 2023.
• Ishmael Harris McKinstry (MAT '23), began doctoral studies in Music Education, with concentrations in Worship Music and Worship Studies, Fall 2023, Liberty University.
• Kaitlin Merck (BME '17), played piccolo in the The Band Directors Marching Band! in The 2023 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade®.
• Caroline Miller (BMT '20, MMT '22), presented “Burnout & COVID-19 in Collegiate Level Music Therapy Students” at SER-AMTA Regional Conference 2023 (Concurrent Session); new position as Music Teacher at Cumming First United Methodist Preschool & Kindergarten, 2023; nominated for Best of Forsyth 2023 under the “school teacher” category, Cumming First United Methodist Preschool, results to be announced January 2024.
• Terrell Mitchell (MME '22), Teacher of the Month, Mount Zion High School, Clayton County Public Schools, October 2023.
• Patricia (Siler) Simpson (BME '67), retired after 30 years as Music Specialist with Dougherty County School System; have taught piano for over 50 years.
• Irene (McVay) Staik (music minor '65), retired as Professor Emerita of Psychology, University of Montevallo, after teaching there for 15 years; total college teaching time of 40 years, 2023.

Are you a GCSU alum with professional achievements or milestones that you would like to share? If so, we want to hear about it! Send your news to musicnewsletter@gcsu.edu and fill out this form: Class Notes. Are you a GCSU alum who is not receiving communication from Georgia College? If so, please fill out this form to update your contact information: Update Your Contact Info.

Why did you first give to Friends of Music? As an alumnus of GC’’s music department, I wanted to support the programs so that other students would be able to benefit as I did.

What interests you most about the Department of Music? Choral activities.

What do you tell others about our Department of Music? I brag about the quality of the students and their work ethic and performance.

Why does this organization matter to you? I think that the students who graduate from here are doing their part to maintain the growth of music in Georgia schools.

The Department of Music lost one of its greatest champions this fall. Mr. Stanley “Stan” Mileski, his wife Betty, and his daughter Christine Young regularly attend our concerts and are especially fond of the jazz band. For several years, the Mileski family helped organize the “Heartfelt Harmonies” fundraiser with The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Greensboro and the Department of Music. Mr. Mileski passed away on November 30th. We will miss his cheerful presence at our events and offer our sincere condolences to his family.

Friends of Music are alumni, members of the community, faculty, staff, and music lovers from all walks of life who generously support the Department of Music.

Are you interested in joining our Friends of Music?

Your gift to the Department of Music allows us to offer our students scholarships, fund tours for our ensemble members, and support outreach efforts, such as the Bobcat Keys After-School Piano program.

If you would like to make an online donation, please click here. Once there, choose “Other” in the designation drop-down menu and type whichever designated music area(s) you prefer in the “Other” box.

If you would like to discuss ways your gift might support our endeavors, please feel free to schedule an appointment with us via email (music@gcsu.edu) or by phone at 478-445-8289.

Undergraduate Degrees

Bachelor of Arts in Music

Bachelor of Music Therapy

Graduate Degrees

Master of Arts in Teaching: Music Education

Master of Music Education

Master of Music Therapy

Minors

Creative Music Media Minor

Music Minor

Music Precertification Minor

Non-Degree Programs

Music Therapy Degree Equivalency Program

To learn more about the degrees, programs, and minors offered by the Department of Music, please visit our website.

To learn more about auditions for the Department of Music at Georgia College, please visit our website.

Issue 7 | June 5, 2023

Issue 6 | December 23, 2022

Issue 5 | May 25, 2022

Issue 4 | January 27, 2022

Issue 3 | May 24, 2021

Issue 2 | January 15, 2021

Issue 1 | May 5, 2020