The 2021-2022 Voice Area Welcome Magazine

WE CULTIVATE ARTISTS

2021-2022 Voice & Choral Area Welcome Magazine

The Department of Music

We cultivate artists.

The University of Texas at San Antonio is in the business of training excellent performers, educators, composers, and entrepreneurs.

The Department of Music serves more than 300 students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees.

These musicians are hungry to make their mark in the arts and are dedicated to social good.

The voice and choral faculty is committed to cultivating your artistic voice an equipping you for the career you wish to pursue.

One of many fun moments from UTSA Lyric Theatre’s production THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE.

The University of Texas at San Antonio

A note from Professor John Nix, your Voice Area Coordinator Hello!

On behalf of the voice and choral faculty, I would like to thank you for choosing to study with us at UTSA. We are excited to begin working with you this fall!

This Welcome Magazine has a great deal of information about our voice area. We hope you will take time to look carefully at it, as it contains links to documents, tools and persons who will help your transition to student life as a music major at UTSA be a smooth one.

If you haven’t already visited UTSA's Rowdy Ready page you should do so right now! Stop reading this letter and click on the link. There are checklists of required things to do before you start classes, like orientation, and links to important resources. Speaking of things on this page, there is a link to schedule an academic advising appointment as well; this is essential for you to start in the fall.

Professor John Nix, Voice Area Coordinator

UTSA is planning for more of a traditional in-person learning environment in the fall. You should read the latest about how UTSA is addressing the COVID-19 pandemic here, as guidance is continually being updated. You can rest assured that the voice and choral faculty is committed to giving you their best instruction, no matter how classes and lessons meet. Along with that, we want you to know we are expecting you to give your best effort, too. Voice lessons are a class, with a syllabus, assignments, deadlines, grades, and attendance/effort expectations, whether they are online or in person. Voice lessons are only the tip of the iceberg of your vocal development. It is what you do outside of the lesson that determines your growth and progress. We can help you with great tools, guidance, and encouragement, but being a singer requires disciplined work on your part every day. It’s our goal to help you become an independent, self-starting, organized, expressive musician.

Please feel free to contact me or your voice teacher with questions. We look forward to seeing you soon!

John Nix, Professor of Voice

The Department of Music

Our faculty artists lead by example.

The voice and choral faculty is comprised of six full-time faculty members with distinct areas of study and rich musical backgrounds.

Dr. Wiliam McCrary, Professor John Nix, and Dr. Susan Olson have served on the UTSA faculty for a cumulative 50 years, establishing a strong foundation of excellent learning tailored to the needs of the individual student. Through their solid leadership, UTSA has become a sought after music program producing leaders in the areas of education, research, and performance.

Dr. William McCrary presents at the 2020 National Opera Association conference.

The University of Texas at San Antonio

More recent additions to the area roster include Dr. Jourdan Laine Howell, Professor Crystal Jarrell Johnson, and Dr. Yoojin Muhn. These professors bring a wealth of performance experience in choral music, early music, opera, and new music, and have additional skills in arts administration and arts entrepreneurship.

Each of your professors has received recognition in their areas of expertise.

Professor Nix has published 46 articles in prestigious journals including The Journal of Voice, The NATS Journal, The Journal of Singing, The International Journal of Research in Choral Singing, and more. Dr. Olson is a seasoned performer with several symphony appearances on her resume, as well as leading opera roles, and is a co-author of a chapter in the Routledge Aural Companion. Dr. McCrary has been recognized for his teaching and staging, having received the UTSA President's Distinguished Achievement Award for Excellene in Creative Production; the WIlliam McCrary Endowment for Opera Education has been establish at UTSA in his honor. Dr. Muhn, conductor and composer, holds degrees from Westminster Choir College, University of Cincinnati, and the Thornton School of Music at USC, and is on the faculty of Music Across the Pond in England. Dr. Howell is an active performer of new works and has received international recognition her community engagement programs. Professor Jarrell Johnson is an avid recitalist and chamber musician, has appeared with celebrated opera companies and Young Artist programs, and currently performs with DEUX, a classical vocal duo.

This is just the tip of the artistic iceberg for your faculty. Read more about them on the department website.

Dr. Jourdan Laine Howell Voice, UTSA Lyric Theatre

Crystal Jarrell Johnson Voice, Diction, Class Voice

Dr. William McCrary Director of UTSA Lyric Theatre Lyric Theatre, Voice, Opera Lit

Dr. Yoojin Muhn Director of Choral Activities Choirs, Choral Conducting

John Nix, Area Coordinator Vocal Arts Laboratory Director Voice, Vocal Pedagogy

Dr. Susan Olson Voice, Diction, Performance Repertoire, Art Song Lit

The Voice Faculty is happy to welcome back Dr. Gary Mabry, Professor Emeritus, to teach voice, Choral Lit, and Vocal Tech for Instrumentalists.

The Department of Music

Where you study matters.

Voice at UTSA is a challenging area of study, but every challenge has its reward.

For our students, the rewards are many; from the comaraderie built through group singing in our choirs, to the pedagogic skills obtained through focused study with well-trained voice professors, we know that you will find your place here with us.

Our students learn a lot. And they sing a lot. And they grow a lot. Here is some of what you can expect to be involved with during your time at UTSA.

Students have the rare opportunity to play Rossini’s piano while studying abroad.

The University of Texas at San Antonio

During lessons, singers build their voices through the study of healthy singing techniques which they can demonstrate via weekly studio seminars as well as monthly area seminars. Beyond this, students are encouraged to audition for the Voice Area Vocal Arts Series, a new addition to our program that features UTSA singers in themed public recitals. Advanced students are also encouraged to compete in the annual Concerto & Aria Competition for the chance to perform with the UTSA Orchestra.

Students at Carnival in Venice, Italy.

Each semester, undergraduate voice students sing in a choral ensemble under the direction of the incomparable Dr. Yoojin Muhn, and present several concerts each year. Students are also encouraged to join Lyric Theatre, sing in a jazz combo, or perform with our celebrated Mariachi Los Paiasanos.

Students ready to showcase their talent beyond UTSA are encouraged to compete in Texoma NATS in the Fall and South Texas NATS in the Spring.

Students are welcome to sing with area churches, perform roles with local theatre or opera companies, and sing with professional choirs in our area.

Conducting lessons at the celebrated Rossini Conservatory.

Experiential learning is a key component to earning a degree at UTSA. With this in mind, Professor John Nix has created incredible opportunities for voice students to engage in voice research under his guidance, and access the Vocal Arts Lab. Students are strongly encouraged to engage in research and become one of many who enter the annual COLFA research competition.

Some of our singers take advantage of the COLFA Semester in Urbino and spend four months exploring Italy while earning degree credits. The experience is life-altering and the next opportunity is coming up in Spring 2022.

Above (left to right): Sean Corbett, Andrew Kimberly, and Isabel Alvarado in Urbino, Italy.

The Department of Music

Fall is here.

Are you ready?

There is much to be done before the start of any semester. Here are some tokens of widsom to help you succeed.

First things first, get your tech in order. While many classes will meet face-to-face, you should be ready to move online at a moment’s notice.

Be sure you have your external mic, headphones, and access to a laptop, computer, or an iPad. And remember: everything is better with secure, reliable, and speedy internet accessed via an Ethernet cable.

Don’t rely on WiFi.

The fountain in the Sombrilla, UTSA Main Campus.

The University of Texas at San Antonio

When you register for voice lessons, be sure you are registering for your assigned teacher’s section. If you aren't sure who you teacher is, reach out to Professor Nix. All incoming undergraduate students should be enrolling in MUS 1512 lessons for fall, and all incoming graduate students should be enrolling in MUS 5542. All undergraduate voice students are also required to participate in an assigned ensemble each semester they are enrolled in applied lessons.

Communication is key! Connect with your voice professor straight away. If you haven't received emails from them, double check your assigned UTSA email account.

Connect with Julie Fischer or Jade Martinez, the marvelous advisors assigned to music students to help navigate their degree plan. You will be in communication with either Julie or jade throughout your collegiate career.

Register for all of your classes. If there is a registration hold, find out why. Have a question about a specific music class?

Connect with Dr. Stacey Davis, Associate Chair of our department. Don't wait until week one to register.

Buy a calendar/planner to keep track of all you need to do each day. When you add items to your 'to do' list, maybe designate a length of time to devote to each task and hold yourself to it. Don't forget to plan breaks between tasks!

Regitsration for Music Convocation (MUS 2000) is required. You must hold the course time (Tuesday, 11:30-12:20) in your calendar. Do not schedule lessons or rehearsals during this time slot. The department will fill this time with seminars designed to get students off to a good start both academically and musically. The convocation hour brings together the entire department so that each student can garner important information relevant to music, as well as experience guest lectures, performances, and masterclasses.

Begin a regular practice schedule, even if you do not have assigned music. Use practice time to warm up and practice your scales (singing and piano). Practice sessions may also include working on translations, composer and poet research, and text memorization.

The Department of Music

What should I expect the first week?

In order to avoid operating in panic mode, find out what might happen during your first week as a college student.

For our new students, and many of our returning students, this will be the first time you will be parking on UTSA’s main campus. Parking can be tricky, and it would be wise to drive the campus to get a sense of walking distances before you choose a parking permit.

You should know the operating schedule of The Runner, our campus bus system, so you can arrive early to class.

UTSA Recital Hall.

The University of Texas at San Antonio

Have you heard about our VIA U-Pass? Current students can ride the VIA transit buses for free and avoid permit costs. Find out all you need to know so you can take advantage of this cost-saving program.

Scope out your classes before the first day. Plan your routes, know where you want to grab a drink or food between classes, and locate the nearest restrooms...sitting through an hour long class when your stomach is loudly growling or when you “need to go” is zero fun for anyone...

You will have access to Blackboard the first week of classes, and you should devote focused time to look through each course dashboard. You'll need to go over each course syllabus with a fine-toothed comb. As you read over the syllabi, start writing in your assignment due dates, exam dates, presentation dates...all of it. You may feel a rush of anxiety when you see your calendar filling up, but that is normal. Remind yourself that you are a conqueror and that you will crush college.

One thing that will help you begin crushing college is to have your books purchased before school begins. Faculty expect you to have your texts. You will likely receive assignments on day one that require the use of your text. If you are waiting on financial aid funds to drop before you can purchase books, consider letting your professor know your situation...but note that your professors will likely expect you to figure it out. It is helpful to note that some course textbooks are available in the John Peace Library, and you may be able to access your text there while waiting on a book to arrive.

On the topic of financial aid, some students face a delay in aid which requires them to deal with emergency loans and other difficult situations. Be mentally prepared for long wait times on the phone with Financial Aid in the weeks surrounding the start of the semester.

With so much happening at UTSA, including the return to campus, it is likely that many people will be flustered on their first day, maybe even throughout the first week (or two). Keep this in mind when you are meeting new people and interacting with professors for the first time. Listen first, think before responding, and be kind.

The Department of Music

Dr. Muhn conducts with her happy face!

Professor Nix stretches the tongue muscle in pedagogy class!

Advice from those who are in the know.

Students and faculty in the voice area want you to succeed, so take their advice to heart.

Enjoy these tidbits.

Dr. Howell: "UTSA operates Roadrunner Pantry so you can have a full belly even when cashflow is tight.

Anyone with a UTSA ID can receive 'grab and go' food bags at no charge in the Roadrunner Pantry.”

Professor Johnson dreaming of Mozart while posing for DEUX’s album cover.

Professor Johnson says: "UTSA is a place where you can hone your skills and pursue musical excellence among colleagues and professors who sincerely care

Dr. Olson steals the spotlight as Widow Corney in OLIVER!

about you and your success in your field. I haven't seen the same sense of community, family, and support that we have at UTSA at any other state school before - it truly is remarkable."

Dr. McCrary: "The pillars of our department are community, curiosity, and courage. We embody those words."

Dr. McCrary hangs out with the cast of his production of THE MUSIC MAN.

Dr. Howell showing off her post-symphony performance glow.

Dr. Muhn: "Our department aims to create a "family-feel"

The University of Texas at San Antonio

community where students, staff, and faculty feel safe, welcomed, and encouraged. Our faculty cares not only about each student's academic success but also their personal growth as a musician and as a person."

Professor Nix: "One of the most helpful people you will ever encounter at UTSA is the music department’s academic advisor, Julie Fisher. Write this name down. Put her email address in your phone and in your address book. She will help you select classes to keep you on track, and work with you to have a semester by semester plan for your degree."

Dr. Olson: "There are a bunch of student success programs to help you!" There are many programs like LEAD, TRIO, and SOAR, the First-Gen and Transfer Student Center, and more.

Shilryn Davenport, soprano Music Studies Mikaela Nichols, soprano Music Studies

Shirlyn Davenport: "Don’t give up. I know that sounds cheesy but it’s true. In college you’ll make a lot of mistakes. You’ll wake up late for class, miss an assignment or two, but you take those mistakes, learn from them and move on for the better.

The voice and music department are full of amazing students and professors who are wishing for happiness every day. Use their knowledge to aid your success. Also, the Starbucks and Chick-fil-A line are always packed at 1:30pm, so after choir just save yourself the frustration if you have a 2:00pm class. But you know what isn’t packed? The fro-yo machine in the business building... #TreatYoSelf Julieta Garcia: "NEVER compare yourself to your peers. Everyone has their own path. Yours is unique to you. No one will ever sound like you. Use professional singers as your voice role models, but don’t compare yourself to them either. Know that your voice is ONE, and that’s why you’re here, to share it with the world. Also, hand sanitizing wipes are your best friends. You never know what that brass player did before you in those practice rooms."

Mikaela Nichols: “I know that sleeping is the easiest thing to do during breaks between classes but it’s not always the smartest! Don’t forget to eat (it seems silly but you’ll see...)! Trust that your professors & classmates want you to succeed;

Hector Tobar, baritone Performance

it’s not like high school and no one is out to get you. Take time to notice your mental health & how you’re feeling (it’s okay not to be okay). Always have a water bottle with you! Know that there is always someone around that is more than willing to help you!”

Hector Tobar: “I would advise that if there is anything a student needs help with, whether it be school or personal stuff, everyone is so close and kind to one another that asking for their help will make anyone feel better. And of course to practice singing as much as possible. Like, I’ve been in the practice rooms so much at this point I may as well take out a lease for one of them!”

Julieta Garcia, soprano Performance & Pedagogy

The Department of Music

A few last thoughts to ready you.

We want you to succeed, and to do so with joy. Here are some final words of wisdom to ensure you are ready to conquer.

Keep yourself healthy.

Now more than ever, you must make sound choices for your physical, emotional, and mental health. Starting a degree at UTSA will may catch you off guard as the demands can be rigorous. To help you stay mentally and emotionally fit, take time to rest every day, and stay in communication with the people you trust. Invest in your physical health as well; performers need strong lungs and the ability to move around a stage.

The Pearl Brewery, home to exceptional dining, shopping, and a fantastic weekend Farmer’s Market.

The University of Texas at San Antonio

College can be stressful. If you need help, reach out to one of us, or contact our counseling services. UTSA’s Counseling Services are available to every student and can be reached at 210-458-4140. Do not be afraid to ask for help.

Keep your eyes on UTSA’s Covid-19 updates here.

Each semester, you will enter into a contract with a collaborative pianist.

This is an additional cost not included in your tuition fees. You should make arrangements for a pianist to be available for 30 minutes each week in a lesson, and for an additional 30 minute rehearsal. Several wonderful pianists currently collaborate with our students (contact info on the back cover). Whoever you choose to work with, it is imperative that they receive your music at the start of the semester, in the format they prefer, with your translations and any musical cuts clearly marked in the score. Remember, when working with your pianist, be respectful, show up on time, pay them on time, and bring your artistic voice to the rehearsal - they are not there to teach notes. Even a practice session is a time for music-making.

Students on their way to class at the Main Campus.

Arches at Mission San José in San Antonio.

Attend as many guest lectures & performances as you can, attend as many of your colleagues recitals as you can, and be sure to enjoy the myriad of concerts provided by your colleagues in the intrumental areas. And remember, your faculty is here for you - it would be good for you to show up for them. Attend faculty recitals.

Soak up the culture of San Antonio - check out Fiesta, visit The Japanese Tea Garden, experience Luminaria, go to the opera, go to the rodeo, walk the grounds of Mission Concepcíon, feast on our culinary heritage, walk the Witte and be inspired by SAMA. San Antonio is incredible - enjoy it to the fullest.

San Antonio at sunset.

THE DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO

Dr. Tracy Cowden, Chair Tracy.Cowden@utsa.edu John Nix, Area Coordinator John.Nix@utsa.edu Julie Fischer, Academic Advisor Julie.Fischer@utsa.edu Jade Martinez, Academic Advisor Jade.Martinez@utsa.edu Dr. Stacey Davis, Associate Chair Stacey.Davis@utsa.edu Cindy Solis, Senior Events Manager Cynthia.Solis@utsa.edu COLLABORATIVE PIANISTS

Jane Haas, 210-884-6157 jimmiejaneh@yahoo.com Anna Hakobyan, 210-250-0655 Anka_hak@yahoo.com Mary Lowder, 704-975-6264 pianist_4_u@yahoo.com

UTSA’s Downtown Campus.