W&L DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC
Polyphony
MICHAEL ’76 AND ELIZABETH LUTTIG P’14 ESTABLISH THE MORGAN E. LUTTIG ’14 CHORAL MUSIC ENDOWMENT SOUND ADVICE: ALUMNI SHARE THEIR STORIES AND TIPS
A Note from Owen
DEPARTMENT HEAD
I am delIghted to present thIs year’s Issue of Polyphony. There has been so much great feedback on our last issue, we are excited to continue spreading the news about the amazing things happening in the department. Every member of the faculty has been busy this year in the classroom and recital hall, which you will read in the following pages.
Once again, Visiting Professor of Music and Administrator of Music Operations, Anthony Cincotta, has worked throughout the year to compile and edit this publication.
Conversations are still ongoing regarding the addition to Wilson Hall, which would provide new choral and instrumental rehearsal spaces adjacent to the northwest corner of the building. We are encouraged by the university’s unwavering support for the art and practice of music on campus.
The Bradford C. Gooch ’58 Endowment for Music continues to support conference travel for students during the year. Regrettably, the conferences for the American Choral Directors Association and the College Orchestra Directors Association were scheduled during the University Singers Tour, which prevented interested student attendance. In February, two students attended the College Orchestra Directors Association National Conference.
A welcome addition to the concert series this year was the reestablished Bluegrass Ensemble. On hiatus since 2019, it is now led by Blake Shester. Well-regarded locally in the old-time music scene, Blake has been part of the staff at Washington and Lee University since 2011, having moved here from Nashville.
We have seen sustained interest in majoring and minoring in the department. We have also observed strong enrollment in our various ensemble programs and in applied lessons.
The incredible offerings of the department would not be possible without the support of the departmental staff, who rarely take a bow. Therefore, I would like to express my gratitude to Erin Phillips and John Taylor for their countless hours behind the scenes ensuring that everything runs smoothly and sounds great.
Owen Collins Head, Department of Music Professor, Department of Theater, Dance and Film Studies
Lenfest
Center for the Arts
Polyphony
department head
Owen Collins administrative assistant
Erin Phillips
editors + contributors
Anthony Cincotta
Chris Dobbins
Akiko Konishi
Shane Lynch
Greg Parker
Erin Phillps
Terry Vosbein
Laura Lemon
Jessica Luck art director
Billy Chase
publisher
Wilson Hall
Washington and Lee University
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Lexington, Virginia 24450
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RAISE THE BATON
BY CHRIS DOBBINS
t he Instrumental Condu C t I ng Mentorship Program (ICMP) enjoyed an active and educational 2025-2026 academic year. In addition to activities on every major instrumental ensemble concert, ICMP students enjoyed composer and conductor workshops and a trip to the College Orchestra Directors Association.
The fall term for ICMP included a busy schedule of guest conductors, composers, authors, and conducting appearances. ICMP students were able to spend quality time with Missy Thomas ’22, to talk about next steps in music careers, including graduate schools and how to break into regional ensembles as a performer and conductor. ICMP was also fortunate to be joined by composer Andrew Maxfield and author Ruth Prillaman who talked about their collaboration process in writing
THE
INSTRUMENTAL CONDUCTING MENTORSHIP PROGRAM ENJOYED A WILDLY SUCCESSFUL YEAR.
a new piece for narrator and orchestra for the University Orchestra to premiere. Student guest conducting performances included Bill Zheng ’26, Paris Guerrero ’27, Daniel Volodarsky ’27, Hallie McMurdie ’27, Ayame Merkel ’28 and Cayla Nelson ’28 making appearances with the University Orchestra and University Wind Ensemble at the annual Holiday Pops Concert.
Winter Term was no less busy for ICMP, including a conference trip and visits from a guest conductor and guest composer. Merkel and Nelson attended the College Orchestra Directors Association Conference in February in Warwick, Rhode Island, at the University of Rhode Island. They took in concerts and presentation sessions and were part of the student track of the conference, which provided student topics and opportunities to network. In addition, Larry Spell,
assistant professor of music and director of instrumental ensembles at Transylvania University, came to campus to work with ICMP students on Laban Movement Analysis, a way to analyze conducting movement and provide musical support. Zheng and Ava GianGrasso ’26 performed incredible senior recitals. Finally, we were joined by composer Joseph Sowa, who talked with ICMP about arranging and orchestration and worked with ICMP and Wind Ensemble students on his new piece, “Phoenix.” Guest student conductors for the term were GianGrasso and Guererro with the University Orchestra and Zheng and Volodarsky with the University Wind Ensemble.
Next year promises to be another busy year with composer and conductor collaborations, trips to conferences in Arizona and Maryland, and much more. ■
Cayla Nelson and Ayame Merkel attending the 2026 College Orchestra Directors Association National Conference at the University of Rhode Island.
PHOTO CREDIT: CAYLA NELSON
akiko konishi anna billias
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF MUSIC PIANO
aKIKo KonIshI enjoyed a rewardIng aCademIC year teaching an accomplished group of piano students. She also taught two courses on opposite sides of the historical spectrum (Music History I and Gamechangers in Rock: Glam Rock and Glam Metal) in the Winter Term, an experience that provided a refreshing contrast to her musicological activities.
Additionally, Konishi began her first year as director of W&L’s Concert Guild Series, following valuable guidance from Professor Gregory Parker during the previous season. Konishi completed several successful chamber music projects throughout the year with faculty members of the Chautauqua Institution, Duke University, and Vanderbilt University, including a world premiere of a work commissioned by the Concert Guild. This summer, she will join the Interharmony Music Festival in Northern Italy as artist faculty in July. She also looks forward to her summer research on Leone Sinigaglia, a Romantic composer – mountaineer from Turin, and his relationship with Brahms and Dvořák.
LECTURER IN MUSIC COLLABORATIVE PIANIST
thIs season unfolded lIKe a sweepIng ConCerto, rich with collaboration, contrast, and steady crescendos. From performing with Anima e Grazia and the Marlbrook Chamber Players to performing in the resonant churches of Croatia and Slovenia, where the University Singers brought ancient songs to life, to the stately elegance of Washington and Lee, to the warmth of Kendal’s retirement community, each experience offered its own kind of grace. It was a particular honor to perform at the Russian Embassy in Washington D. C., while a journey to Russia was a deeply personal mission of peace. Lecturer in music and collaborative pianist Anna Billias says it was a highlight to share the stage with her children, Dasha and Dmitriy, as they wove flute, violin, clarinet, saxophone, and voice into a tapestry of art, family, and unity between peoples that only music can bring.
Later came the pleasure of duo artistry with our own saxophonist, visiting assistant professor of musica and administrator of music operations Anthony Cincotta, and then the profound privilege of standing alongside senior musicians at the pinnacle of their academic career — their senior school recitals. It was a thrill to witness their determination and their triumph. Beneath it all, Billias continued to enjoy the steady rhythm of teaching. Layered within the year were concerto competitions, district auditions, fundraising events, and the quiet, relentless beauty of nurturing young talent.
“While possessing romance in spirit, but professionalism in my craft, it has been my honor to enjoy another year of making music matter,” Billias said.
anthony cincotta II
VISITING ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF MUSIC, ADMINISTRATOR OF MUSIC OPERATIONS
w&l’s VIsItIng assIstant professor of musIC and administrator of music operations Anthony Cincotta II continues to teach aural skills and Introduction to Music. He now also teaches applied saxophone and applied jazz improvisation studios. This past summer, he recorded his first album, “Whispers of Stillness: The Saxophone Music of Ryan Keebaugh.” The album includes the first recording of Keebaugh’s concerto, “kenosis.” During the fall term, he also collaborated with Department of Music colleague and friend, lecturer in music and collaborative pianist Anna Billias, for their first faculty recital together, “Kaleidoscopic Colours.” Following that, he was invited to perform at the College Music Society’s National Conference, performing his recital, “Expanding Horizons: Celebrating Underrepresented Composers for Saxophone & Piano.” One of the most exciting endeavors of this past academic year was the coordination of the first joint faculty recital at W&L. Hosted on May 12, 2026, many faculty members came together to collaborate and perform for their students, the members of the W&L community, and the greater Lexington community.
This summer, Cincotta will collaborate with another friend and colleague, associate professor of music Christopher Dobbins. They have been awarded a Lenfest Summer Research Grant to commission a new piece of music for saxophone and orchestra. The piece will be performed at W&L in the fall, and performed during the University Orchestra’s fall tour.
Cincotta lives in Lexington, Virginia, with his wife, Anna (third-grade teacher at Harrington Waddell Elementary School), and their loving dog, Boomer. They are also expecting their first child this October!
chris
dobbins
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF MUSIC DIRECTOR OF INSTRUMENTAL PROGRAMS
assoCIate professor of musIC ChrIstopher dobbIns had a year filled with varied engagements around the U.S. and Colombia. He began the year with a week-long guest conducting residency at Universidad de Antioquia in Medellin, Colombia, working with conducting and band literature students and leading the UdeA Symphony Orchestra in a performance of Schumann’s Symphony No. 4. Back in the U.S., Dobbins spent the summer working on classifying and digitizing artifacts for an Irish music library in Dingle, Ireland. He also worked with composer Andrew Maxfield and author Ruthie Prillaman on a new piece for narrator and orchestra, which received its world premiere during the fall term University Orchestra concert. Simultaneously, Dobbins was working with Amy Dunker, professor of music, composition, theory, and trumpet at Clarke University, on a new piece for Wind Ensemble inspired by the works of Colombian visual artist Fernando Botero. He was excited to welcome Larry Spell, director of instrumental activities at Transylvania University, to campus in March to work with conducting students on Laban Movement Analysis. In addition, Dobbins completed his time on the National Board of the College Orchestra Directors Association and as editor published the most recent volume of the College Orchestra Directors Association Journal.
lacey r. lynch
LECTURER IN MUSIC CANTATRICI
leCturer In musIC laCey r . lynCh joIned the musIC faculty at Washington and Lee University in the fall of 2022 as the conductor of the treble choir, Cantatrici. Lynch also assists with the Choral Conducting Mentorship Program (CCMP).
Outside of W&L, she is a proud public school educator, currently teaching PreK-5 general music at Natural Bridge Elementary School (NBES), where she has hosted numerous practicum students and student teachers from W&L and Southern Virginia University (SVU) in her music classroom. Lynch is an active grant writer and recently secured her eighth grant to purchase instruments and materials for her elementary classroom.
Lynch begins her 18th year as the artistic director of the Rockbridge Youth Chorale (RYC) and spent this past season celebrating the 25th anniversary of the RYC through multiple concerts in collaboration with the Rockbridge Chorus.
This summer, Lynch will complete her Orff Level III coursework at the University of Memphis and earn her full certification in Orff-Schulwerk. She completed her Orff Level I coursework at Appalachian State University in 2023, Orff Level II at the University of Missouri, St. Louis in 2025 and her Kodaly Level I coursework at James Madison University in 2015. She is excited to have this official training under her belt as she mentors many music education students from both W&L and SVU in her classroom at NBES and at W&L in the CCMP and choral program, as well as through the RYC Student Conducting Internship Program.
shane lynch
PROFESSOR OF MUSIC DIRECTOR OF CHORAL ACTIVITIES
p rofessor of mus IC and d I re C tor of C horal activities Shane Lynch had a busy year, especially with his sabbatical in the fall. During his sabbatical, he served as a juror for the conducting competition of the Aegis Carminis Choral Festival in Koper, Slovenia, alongside noted international conductors such as Toh Ban Sheng, Michael Joseph Barrett, Roni Sugiarto, Ambrož Čopi, Petra Grassi, and Stojan Kurat. Lynch also attended the Gallus-Maribor International Choral Festival in Maribor, Slovenia, and the City of Derry International Choral Festival in Londonderry, Northern Ireland, as an honored guest of the festivals. Lynch then spent time in Germany, with a main focus on Bach research, with stops in Leipzig and Weimar among other places, before finally finishing his extended travels in Morocco and the Canary Islands, lecturing on the music of those regions for the W&L Office of Lifelong Learning.
Following a busy Winter Term once back from sabbatical, Lynch is moving to planning for a summer trip to South Korea to help prepare for the University Singers’ 2027 performances in the Jeju International Choir Festival while also exploring future professional conducting opportunities. And in home construction news, he is looking forward to beginning the process of terracing his front yard with retaining walls and landscaping.
gregory parker
PROFESSOR OF MUSIC
gregory parKer, professor of musIC, began the academic year by leading the academic procession for Fall Convocation on Sept. 3, his first official duty as the new university marshal. Students in his MUS 200 Recital Attendance dance course participated in a Halloween costume contest during the music convocation on Oct. 31. He joined in the fun by donning a pirate costume and performing “I Am a Pirate King” from “Pirates of Penzance” while the judges tallied the scores. On Nov. 11, he sang for the Lexington Veterans Day Parade and rededication of the relocated Lexington Veterans Memorial in front of the Old Courthouse.
Parker conducted a Christmas cantata of his own creation entitled “Divinity in a Manger Bed” on Dec. 7 at Manly Memorial Baptist Church. The choir included students from W&L as well as members of four congregations in the area. On Feb. 21, he was the keynote speaker for the Rockbridge Regional Library’s Black History Month event, “Bond of Rhythm: Connecting with Music” at Lylburn Downing Middle School. He retired from church music ministry on April 26, having served churches in five states over the last 43 years. May 12 found him on the Wilson Concert Hall stage again alongside soprano Christine Fairfield in a performance of one of Handel’s concert duets: “Che vai pensando, folle pensier.” The performance also featured harpsichordist William McCorkle, lecturer in music, and cellist Julia Goudimova, lecturer in music.
terry vosbein
PROFESSOR OF MUSIC, COMPOSITION, MUSIC THEORY; UNIVERSITY JAZZ ENSEMBLE
terry VosbeIn’s musICal year at w&l was full and rewarding. During summer 2025, he composed “The Mississippi River Suite”, a four-movement work for big band, while traveling the Great River Road from the river’s source to its mouth. In fall, the Vosbein Magee Big Band performed the entire suite at Wilson Hall. Other performances included “Late Night Rendezvous” and “Crows in Tuxedos”, played by The Capitol Bones AllBrass Big Band, and “Lament”, performed by Transient Canvas on a SonoKlect concert. The Vosbein Magee Big Band also appeared in Staunton for Jazz in the Park and Salem for Jazz in July, with both programs drawn from his compositions and arrangements.
Another meaningful project came through a commission from the Minnesota Jewish Community Center Symphony Orchestra, which asked him to expand his string work “A Prayer for Peace” into a full symphony orchestra version. He first composed the piece in September 2001 while living in Oxford, England, watching the attacks on the United States unfold from abroad.
He also heard terrific concerts during the year, including Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, Elvis Costello, Johnny Vidacovich with Jeff Coffin, Sarah White, and the Shenandoah Conservatory Studio Big Band.
The Jazz Education Network conference in New Orleans was another highlight. Since New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz and of Vosbein himself, it remains a special place to spend time hearing music, attending presentations, and catching up with colleagues. A particular pleasure was seeing Jeff Coffin, whom he has since booked for a SonoKlect concert this fall.
Michael ’76 and Elizabeth Luttig P’14
ESTABLISH THE MORGAN E. LUTTIG ’14 CHORAL MUSIC ENDOWMENT
BY JESSICA LUCK, SHANE LYNCH, AND ANTHONY CINCOTTA
t he h on. j. mIC hael lutt I g, a 1976 graduate of wash I ngton and l ee u n IV ers I ty, and his wife, Elizabeth, established the Morgan E. Luttig ’14 Choral Music Endowment at the time of Judge Luttig’s 50th reunion to honor their daughter, Morgan E. Luttig, a 2014 graduate of Washington and Lee, as part of the Leading Lives of Consequence campaign.
The Luttigs established the endowment out of their gratitude to Washington and Lee University and to professor of music Shane Lynch, director of choral activities at Washington and Lee, and because of their lifetime and cherished friendship with former Washington and Lee University president Kenneth P. Ruscio ’76 and his wife, Kim.
“This gift is made to honor Morgan and her life in choral music,” said Judge Luttig, “in which Washington and Lee played an enormous part.”
Morgan Luttig, currently the director of choral activities at the University of Alabama, was a member of W&L’s internationally competitive touring choir the University Singers, treble choir Cantatrici and was a founding member of the Choral Conducting Mentorship Program (CCMP) during her time as a W&L student. She returned to Washington and Lee as the visiting director of choral activities during Lynch’s sabbatical in 2018-19, where she conducted the University Singers, Cantatrici and the Glee Club, led the 2019 University Singers’ tour of Scotland and oversaw the CCMP.
“I can think of no better way to honor Morgan’s contributions to the W&L
community than this gift,” said Lynch. “She is a fabulous musician and serves as an inspiration of what is possible for our current and future students.”
Funds from the endowment will be utilized to provide unique signature experiences for the University Singers, Cantatrici and the Glee Club through touring and on-campus events. In addition, and in recognition of Morgan Luttig’s role as a leader on the national stage, the CCMP will be renamed the Morgan E. Luttig Choral Conducting Mentorship Program, with gift funds providing signature experiences for members of the program who look to follow in her footsteps. These experiences will include certification in Kodály and/or Orff music education methodologies as well as the opportunity for individual study with a consortium of internationally renowned choral conductors and composers during the CCMP members’ senior years.
“W&L’s choral program is already recognized on an international level and provides extraordinary opportunities to students, but this gift will allow for our unique choral music education to become the national leader for liberal arts schools in the 21st century,” said Lynch. “The opportunities that will
be afforded the Morgan Luttig CCMP scholars are now second to none for undergraduate music education experiences. In addition, students from all walks of campus will benefit in the choral ensembles in true liberal arts fashion.”
Lynch is also hopeful that this gift will inspire others to support endowed choral funds that enhance W&L’s standing as a leading liberal arts choral program in the United States for decades to come.
“This is such a meaningful moment for everyone involved,” said Ken Ruscio. “It’s a testament to Morgan and her contributions and a testament to the generosity and thoughtfulness of the Luttig family. Generations of students will benefit from this gift. Even more than it is now, W&L will be seen as a place for young men and women to pursue their dreams of having music be a central part of their lives, whatever career paths they pursue.”
“This is truly a stunning gift. I cannot thank the entire Luttig family enough for all they have done and are doing for the W&L choral music community,” Lynch said. ■
Names (left to right): Ken Ruscio ’76, Elizabeth Luttig P14, Shane Lynch, Mike Luttig ’76
PHOTO CREDIT: KEVIN REMINGTON
Keys to a Magical Year
MARCH 8 | 3:00 PM
the w&l pIano program Completed another year packed with unforgettable performances. Three pianists presented a joint senior recital to perform solo and collaborative works assisted by their friends, and a showcase group was featured in the annual piano program recital, titled “Magical Mystery Tour,” to wide acclaim. Students also had the opportunity to play for renowned guest artists, J.Y. Song (The Juilliard School), Nicola Melville (Carleton College), and Van Cliburn Competition gold medalist John Nakamatsu (San Francisco Conservatory), in piano master classes through the Concert Guild series. Additionally, two pianists will perform and represent the program in July at the Interharmony Music Festival in Northern Italy, as accepted participants in the prestigious summer music program. ■ Akiko Konishi
The recital poster for the Piano Program March recital, “Magical Mystery Tour.”: (left to right): Colin Soukup, Sylvia Churchill, John Paul Hammond, Camille Ramos, Juyoung Kim, Timmy Nguyen, Colin Looby (front), Meredith Harron, Paris Guerrero, Sasha Soukhoveev, Sam Mitten, Edward Zhou, Olesia Soukhoveev, Nicholas Rizzo (Missing: Isabel Duarte, Kailesh Amilcar)
PHOTO CREDIT: AKIKO KONISHI
Award Highlights
Outstanding Pianist Award
Camille Ramos ’26
Nicholas Rizzo ’26
Senior Recitals
Camille Ramos
Nicholas Rizzo
Juyoung Kim ’26
Interharmony Music Festival Performers
An Shelmire ’25 and Ramos
Piano Program Recital Performers: Ramos, Rizzo, Kim, Sylvia Churchill ’27, Sam Mitten ’27, Timmy Nguyen ’27, Colin Soukup ’28, Kailesh Amilcar ’26, Sasha Soukhoveev ’28, Olesia Soukhoveev ’26, Edward Zhou ’29, Isabel Duarte ’26 (guest soprano), Paris Guerrero ’27 (guest soprano), Colin Looby ’25 (guest tenor), John Paul Hammond ’27 (guest baritone), and An Shelmire (guest alumna)
CREDIT: ANTHONY CINCOTTA
CHORAL CORNER
BY SHANE LYNCH University Choirs
It has been a wonderful and busy year for the W&L choirs. The year started with Shane Lynch, professor of music and director of choral activities, on sabbatical, which allowed our own Choral Conducting Mentorship Program (CCMP) alumna Olivia Shaves Arnold ’17 to serve as visiting director of choral activities in the fall. Joined by lecturer in music and conductor of Cantatrici Lacey Lynch, the choir embarked on a busy fall, with Parents and Family Weekend and fall concerts in mid-October, followed by the traditional Holiday Pops for the Glee Club and Cantatrici and Lessons and Carols in December. Lessons and Carols was also unique, as it was held in Grace Episcopal Church instead of the University Chapel, which was undergoing renovations and was not available.
Shane Lynch returned in January, and the choirs immediately got to work on the Martin Luther King Jr. Remembrance Concert. Unfortunately, snowmageddon hit Rockbridge County the weekend the concert was to take place, canceling the event. A February choir tour to Miami, the Florida Keys, and multiple stops in Virginia followed for the University Singers, which enjoyed many wonderful
concerts, including a packed house at the Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea in Key West, Florida. The choir also enjoyed a workshop and exchange with the Frost Chorale at the University of Miami, where CCMP alumnus Michael Colavita ’18 is pursuing his doctorate in choral conducting. A wonderful concert and alumni reception in McLean, Virginia, organized by CCMP alumna Adelaide Loving ’25, allowed over 20 University Singers alumni to join us on stage for “The Road Home” and “Shenandoah” to conclude the concert, rekindling our journey of life through shared music. In all, it was a wonderful tour with great venues, crowds, and weather, which was welcome following an unusually cold and snowy January and February in Lexington.
Cantatrici and the Glee Club (C/GC) followed up with a spectacular Winter Choral Concert. Using our storytelling model of concert used in the past for “A Life of Love” and “A Hero’s Journey,” C/GC told the story of two friends throughout life in non-linear fashion based on Christopher Nolan’s approach in “Oppenheimer.” Using color, staging, and the four types of evolution as its model, the choirs told an evocative narrative concert that was described by audience
members as “absolutely amazing” and “the best thing I have seen at the Lenfest Center in my decade of coming to events.” The concert structure and programming were part of the CCMP’s work for the term, and the members of all the groups accomplished their work with aplomb.
As the year winds down, auditions for the choirs for next year have wrapped up and the future looks extraordinarily bright for the program. The big news for 2026-27 is that the University Singers have been selected to participate in the Jeje International Choral Festival on Jeju Island in South Korea! This is such an honor, and the choir will travel over next February Break to represent the university at this prestigious event. It always remains a moment of amazement that our little school in rural Virginia of approximately 1,800 undergraduate students with a choral program made up of a majority of non-music majors/minors manages to be recognized on an international level. This success is a tribute to the many members who have contributed, year-after-year, so tirelessly to the choirs, giving their time, energy, and commitment to help create something truly special and unique at W&L. ■
The University Singers rehearse for their concert in Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Miami, Florida.
PHOTO
University Jazz Ensemble
SETTING THE STANDARD
BY TERRY VOSBEIN
durIng the 2025–26 sChool year, the unIVersIty Jazz Ensemble (UJE) enjoyed a busy and rewarding schedule of concerts and special events. In October, the ensemble performed at the annual Family Weekend Instrumental Concert. Later in the fall, UJE presented its own concert, joined by the Vosbein Magee Big Band (VMBB). As in past years, senior members of the ensemble (Ava GianGrasso, Tim Johns, Nick Rizzo and Kevin Warren) stepped into featured roles with VMBB. In December, the group took part in the Holiday Pops concert alongside the department’s other large ensembles. In March, the ensemble performed for the Law School’s annual Lara D. Gass Symposium, “Procedure and Remedies in the Face of Authoritarianism,” as part of a program that brought together scholarship, public conversation,
and the arts. In April, the ensemble shared a concert with the Rockbridge County High School Jazz Combo, spotlighting both high school and W&L student performers and building connections with young jazz musicians from the surrounding area.
The year also included a memorable first: the inaugural University Jazz Ensemble retreat in Staunton, Virginia. Students gathered for dinner, a guest speaker, a concert outing, and ice cream. More than a social event, the retreat reflected something essential about the ensemble itself. At its best, the group is not only a performing ensemble but also a musical community, one that gives students the chance to deepen their engagement with jazz, with one another, and with the broader culture around the music. ■
PHOTO CREDIT: SHELBY HAMELMAN
University Orchestra
EARWORMS AND ENCORE MOMENTS
BY CHRIS DOBBINS
t he u n IV ers I ty o r C hestra ( uo ) enjoyed a busy 2025-26 academic year filled with exciting music and collaborations. The UO was fortunate to perform exciting fall and winter concerts and to enjoy collaborations with students, faculty, and guest conductors and composers.
The University Orchestra’s fall concert, “Stories, Songs, and Dances,” included music inspired by literature and storytelling. Featuring Karl Jenkins’ “Palladio” (famous from the De Beers’ “Diamonds are Forever” commercials), Joseph Haydn’s “Surprise” Symphony, and a world premiere, this concert had something for everyone of all ages. The concert featured the world premiere of “The Earworm: A Cautionary Tale for Narrator & Orchestra” composed by Andrew Maxfield with narration by Ruth Prillaman. Maxfield and Prillaman
joined us for a workshop halfway through the Fall Term, sharing details about their creative process and providing insight into the humorous musical intricacies they included in the work. Maxfield came back to serve as the narrator for the premiere performance. The UO was also honored to invite back Missy Thomas ’22, who recently competed her Master of Music in orchestral conducting from the University of Louisville, to work with the ensemble on Edward Elgar’s “Serenade.”
The Holiday Pops Concert featured our student conductors working on winterthemed pieces. The UO was fortunate to be joined by Bill Zheng ’26 and Cayla Nelson ’28 making their UO conducting debuts, and Daniel Volodarsky ’27 making a return appearance to the holiday pops stage.
The winter concert, “reNEWal” featured music all about rebirth and
life starting to wake back up after a long winter. Works by Ludwig van Beethoven and Frederick Delius were featured alongside movements from Igor Stravinsky’s “Firebird Suite.” The UO featured Department of Music instructor of violin Jakob Hofer on Pablo de Sarasate’s “Ziguenerweisen” and student conductors Ava GianGrasso ’26 and Paris Guerrero ’27 conducting works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Carl Holmquist, respectively.
The University Orchestra looks forward to an exciting season next academic year. In addition to exciting concerts and collaborations, the UO is hitting the road with the University Wind Ensemble and performing a new work for saxophone and orchestra, which visiting assistant professor of music Anthony Cincotta will premiere with the UO accompanying. ■
PHOTO CREDIT: MICHAEL WANG
Alum Missy Thomas ’22 as guest conductor with the University Orchestra
University Wind Ensemble
WIND, ART, AND FIRE
BY CHRIS DOBBINS
t he u n IV ers I ty wI nd e nsemble ( uwe ) had a successful 2025-26 academic year. In addition to a fall concert revolving around visual art, the UWE served as the Concerto-Aria Contest Winners Concert ensemble and featured several guest conductors.
In the Fall Term, the University Wind Ensemble performed its concert, titled “Gradients,” which featured music inspired by visual art. The concert gave the UWE the opportunity to provide the community with a multimedia concert that included projected images of the art used in the concert. The big highlights of this concert included the world premiere of “Botero!,” a work by composer Amy Dunker based on the visual art of Colombian artist Fernando Botero, as well as a performance of music from “West Side Story” that included art by Brittany Osaseri ’19 and Brianna Osaseri ’19.
The Holiday Pops Concert featured student conductors working with the University Wind Ensemble on winter and holiday favorites alike. We were fortunate to feature Ava GianGrasso ’26, Paris Guerrero ’27 with the UWE, as well as Ayame Merkel ’28 making her conducting debut with the ensemble.
During the Winter Term, the focus of UWE shifted to two big projects: accompanying the Concerto-Aria Contest winners and performing the consortium premiere of “Phoenix” by composer Joseph Sowa. The Concerto-Aria Contest winners were Isabel Duarte ’26, performing Gaetano Donizetti’s “Quel guardo il cavaliere” and Guerrero performing Alfredo Catalani’s “Ebben?..Ne andró lontana.” Sowa joined the UWE to work on the details of his new work, and the students were able to learn about composers’ intent and listeners’ response and get Sowa’s take on musical decisions and interpretations that had been made. The concert featured student guest conductors Bill Zheng ’26 and Daniel Volodarsky ’27 leading the ensemble through works by Johnnie Vinson and Frank Ticheli, respectively.
The University Wind Ensemble is excited for next season as it will return to the road, joining the University Orchestra on a tour to Lexington, Kentucky, and will perform fall and winter concerts of varied repertoire that will give everyone something to look forward to! ■
PHOTO CREDIT: ERIN PHILLIPS
The Manasse/Nakamatsue Duo pose with student performers and Department of Music faculty members Akiko Konishi and James Tobin following a masterclass at W&L. Names (from L – R): Jon Nakamatsu, Jon Manasse, Brennan Pezalla, Timmy Nguyen (seated), Nicholas Rizzo, Akiko Konishi, James Tobin
PHOTO CREDIT: UNKNOWN (PROVIDED BY KONISHI)
Concert Guild
MASTERS OF THE STAGE (AND THE MASTERCLASS)
BY AKIKO KONISHI
t he w & l Con C ert g u I ld s er I es welcomed an impeccable lineup of acclaimed guest artists during the 2025-26 season. In addition to hosting performances, the series continued the educational tradition led by immediate past director, professor of music Gregory Parker, to invite guests to present master classes and seminars to W&L music students. In the fall term, Nicola Melville (Carleton College) and J.Y. Song (The Juilliard School) were guest clinicians, and Song led a Q&A panel with student moderators titled “Beyond the Keys: Reflections on a Musical Journey” to
discuss her background in the sciences, business, and music. The highlight of the Winter Term was a visit by the Manasse/ Nakamatsu Duo, featuring clarinetist Jon Manasse and pianist Jon Nakamatsu. While both performers maintain active solo careers through their associations with the Van Cliburn International Competition and The Juilliard School, their program showcased their artistry that has distinguished the pair as a global favorite in the chamber music scene. The recital included works by Brahms, Bernstein, and Mendelssohn, as well as some ragtime pieces dedicated to the duo.
The artists also gave a joint master class the following morning, which provided a unique format that offered instruction to pianists and clarinetists alike.
The upcoming 2026-27 season will feature exciting artists such as ArcoStrum, a violin-guitar duo and winners of the Concert Artists Guild Competition, and the celebrated Goldmund Quartet, a group that performs on the Paganini Quartet (a set of instruments that were built by Stradivarius and owned by the iconic virtuoso Nicolo Paganini during his lifetime). ■
World Music Concerts
THE WORLD COMES TO LEXINGTON
BY GREG PARKER
w e were thr I lled to be able to present three world music concerts during the 2025-26 academic year. In November, Humayun Khan and his Parwaz Ensemble came to campus for a mini residency that included visits to assistant professor of religion Kameliya Atanasova’s Islam and Spirituality course, professor of music Gregory Parker’s Recital Attendance course, dinner with students, and a concert. Khan, whose family moved from Afghanistan to Washington, D.C., after the Soviet invasion, was trained in Indian classical music and is known for his combinations of Persian poetry with Indian musical styles. The concert at W&L was a fusion of Indian classical and Western pop instruments and traditions and even featured whirling dervishes
on some selections. The residency was supported by the Robert O. and Elizabeth M. Bentley Endowment for the Performing Arts.
The first week of March brought back-to-back concerts, first by the Ukrainian fusion band DakhaBrahka and then the William and Mary Middle Eastern Music Ensemble. We cooperated with the Lenfest Series to bring DakhaBrahka (whose name means “give-take” in Ukrainian) to campus for a residency that included class visits, a Ukrainian dinner in the Marketplace, and a fabulous concert featuring colorful visuals and powerful music. The concert ended with an impromptu auction of a painting by band member Marko Halanevych that raised nearly $1,000
BLUE SKY, BLUEGRASS
BY ERIN PHILLIPS
for the fIrst tIme sInCe 2019, the bluegrass ensemble returned for the 2025–26 academic year. Directed by Blake Shester, the ensemble connects students to the rich musical heritage of Rockbridge County.
Despite having only ten hours of rehearsal time to learn a new genre, students rose to the challenge for the fall concert, earning praise from Shester for their hard work and dedication. Ensemble member Bill Zheng ’26 noted, “We have players with various kinds of musical skills and bluegrass backgrounds, but rehearsals were very inclusive, allowing everyone to grow, learn, and have fun.”
for Ukrainian soldiers. The concert was supported by the Pauline B. and Paul D. Pickens Fund for the Performing Arts. We cooperated with W&L’s Middle Eastern and South Asia (MESA) Studies Program to host the Middle Eastern Music Ensemble from the College of William and Mary. The concert program was built around the theme “Music and Dance for a Better World” and featured a variety of selections from the Middle East, North Africa, and Greece. The ensemble is under the direction of Anne Rasmussen, professor of music/ ethnomusicology and Bickers Professor of Middle Eastern Studies at William and Mary, and the author of the chapter on Arabic music in the textbook we use in our Worlds of Music course. ■
Both the fall and winter concerts drew large audiences, nearly filling Wilson Concert Hall. Performances featured traditional favorites alongside songs by Bill Monroe, Lester Flatt, and Hank Williams, as well as newer selections such as Tyler Childers’ “Jersey Giant.”
The ensemble continues to celebrate and preserve bluegrass music at W&L, building on the foundation established by former directors Nate Leath and Burr Datz, who followed in the footsteps of Odell McGuire and his wife, Mata. It also inspires future generations of musicians to carry the tradition forward. ■
Bluegrass Ensemble
SonoKlect Series
BRASS, BOLD, THEN BEAUTIFULLY STILL WINNER’S CIRCLE
s onoKle C t had another strong season, w I th two concerts that differed sharply in character. In October, Matt Niess led The Capitol Bones All-Brass Big Band in a performance that was bold, exuberant, and full of energy. With mellophones in place of saxophones, the ensemble produced a powerful, brass-driven sound. The band played with extraordinary drive, brilliance, and momentum, and it was especially satisfying to hear two works by SonoKlect director Terry Vosbein performed with such energy and polish. In February, we welcomed Transient Canvas, the Bostonbased duo of Matt Sharrock (marimba) and Amy Advocat (bass
clarinet), for a recital that was intimate, haunting, and beautifully played. Their performance revealed great nuance, color, and feeling, along with a remarkable level of technical command. A highlight of the program was Vosbein’s “Lament,” written for the duo and premiered at the Alba Music Festival Composition Program in Italy, where Sharrock and Advocat were artists-inresidence and Vosbein taught composition. The evening was a vivid reminder of the distinctive artists and repertoire that define SonoKlect.
Explore the complete history of SonoKlect, with audio, video, programs, and more at sonoklect.com. ■
Departmental Awards
The Washington and Lee University Orchestra Award
William Foltz Bray
Ava Mary Gian Grasso
The Music Production Award
Maggie Jones
Michael Wang
The Washington and Lee
University Choral Award
Kailesh Kermens Amilcar
Colin Patrick Looby
The Piano Award
Camille Ramos
Nicholas Joseph Rizzo
The Todd D. Jones ’85 Memorial Scholarship
Katia Apedoh
Benjamin Blevins
John Paul Hammond
Colin Soukup
The Robert Stewart Award in Music
Yanxin Zheng
The Washington and Lee University
Jazz Ensemble Award
Nicholas Joseph Rizzo
The Washington and Lee University
Wind Ensemble Award
Timothy Daniel Johns
Yanxin Zheng
Sound Advice
ALUMNI SHARE THEIR STORIES, TIPS, AND TRICKS OF THE TRADE
Barret Nixon Milam ’04
“Get involved in some way, it’s a wonderful creative outlet”
Caption: (Back left to right) Brooke ’06, Mandi Cornthwaite ’04, Erin Dougherty ’04, Barrett Milam ’04, Laura Adams ’05. (Front left to right) Catherine Camilletti ’06 and Lisa Miller ’05.
Credit: Barret Milam
Tracey Belmont ’92
“Pour your heart into your music. You won’t regret it!”
Jady Koch ’00
“Everyone should at least take the intro to music class!”
Michael McLaughlin ’23
“Music is always worth it. If you’re ever conflicted about whether to take an ensemble or take the next step with music, always do it.”
An Shelmire ’25
“The music dept is one of the few departments on campus that truly are personable… [I]t doesn’t matter if it’s your instrument professor, unrelated music prof, or even the music staff, they truly want you to succeed as an individual and within your musical career.”
William Dantini ’24
“I recommend joining an ensemble. The more you put in, the more you will get out of it. Also, if you are considering a major or even a minor, plan your coursework well in advance.”
Members of the University Singers during the 2024 choir tour. (Back left to right) Henry Ross ’27, Dantini., Barrett Milam ’04, Laura Adams ’05. (Front left to right) Mynor Lopez ’24, Elizabeth Avalos ’24, Lecturer and Collaborative Pianist Anna Billias, Catherine McKean ’24, Professor Shane Lynch.
Credit: Mynor Lopez (provided by Dantini)
Katherin Walton ’95
“Don’t quit after graduation. Even if this doesn’t end up being your profession, music brings people together, even if it’s just around campfire!”
Courtney Edman ’93
“If you enjoy music in any capacity and want to play/sing in a group, go for it. Talk to coaches and directors to see how to make it work. The experiences and people augment the academic experience, and even if you aren’t a music major, you can still participate.”
Thomas E. Gillespie ’72
“The ability to follow and appreciate music is a very important life skill and leads to multi-generational understanding. Actual understanding builds confidence and team building.”
Anna Walker ’00
“Even if you don’t plan a major or career in music, you should spend time in the music department. It can provide a great outlet/change of pace.”
Alison Detwiler ’98
“enjoy it! making music is a really beautiful way to create something with others and put yourself out into the world.”
Ingrid Schroeder ’91
“Take a music appreciation classes to provide yourself a break from your traditional academics and use different parts of your brain to learn.”
Alicia Bishop ’13
“Get involved. Time is limited – each week is finite and the time in university goes by so quickly – but you will not regret the time you spend filling your soul making music and making new friends.”
“The relationships you build now in college are growing your character — which is far more valuable than connections, networks, or competitive standing.”
Conducting Mentorship Program graduate Olivia Arnold conducts Cantatrici at the 2016 Winter Choral Concert
Visiting professor Olivia Arnond conducts the University Singers at Lessons and Carols 2026
“You will never regret keeping music in your life! Undergraduate years provide opportunities (lessons, ensembles) that you may not have again.”
“Singing was one of my most important extracurricular activities, and I would encourage students interested in music either to sing in W and L groups or to perform on instruments. These should be great opportunities to network.”
“I recommend every W&L student participate in a music ensemble. You will meet new people and make friendships that last a lifetime!”
“Definitely include music in your liberal arts education.”
Olivia Arnold ’17
Choral
Laura Purcell ’95
Bradford N. Martin ’74
Robert H. Moll ’68
Elizabeth Fritze Meier ’97
Upcoming Events
*Details: www.wlu.edu/music or 540-458-8852. Free unless noted. Most events in Wilson Concert Hall. Tickets: 540-458-8000. Livestream at livestream.com/wlu.
Tickets are NOT required Tickets are required Tickets are free but required Non-perishable food exchange Livestream
FRI., OCT. 2
OCT. 3
OCT. 17
OCT. 23
SUN., OCT. 25
& Family
Jeff Coffin, saxophone
Faculty Recital: Akiko Konishi, piano; Anna Billias, piano; Anthony Cincotta, saxophone
SAT., OCT. 31 Concert Guild: Penelope Shumate, soprano
MON., NOV. 2 University Wind Ensemble
FRI., NOV. 6
NOV. 7
NOV. 12
NOV. 13 Concerto-Aria Competition
NOV. 14
NOV. 19
FRI., NOV. 20 Senior Recital: Nat Bersett, bass
DEC. 1
DEC. 3
DEC. 4
JAN. 24
JAN. 30
FEB. 7
SAT., FEB. 13 SonoKlect: Alexandre Dossin, piano
MAR. 2
MAR. 5
SAT., MAR. 6 Senior Recital: Daniel Volodarsky, violin
FRI., MAR. 12 Senior Recital: John Paul Hammond, bass
MAR. 14
MAR. 16
MAR. 19
THURS., MAR. 25 University Orchestra Concert-Aria Winner's Concert
SAT., MAR. 27 Senior Recital: Hallie McMurdie, organ
THURS., APR. 1 University Jazz Ensemble + RCHS Concert
FRI., APR. 2 Senior Recital: Reagn Wombles, soprano
SAT., APR. 3 Senior Recital: Paris Guerrero, soprano
MON., APR. 5
Wind Ensemble Concert
THURS., APR. 9 University Jazz Ensemble + RCBB Concert
SUN., MAY 9
TUES., MAY 25
Faculty Recital: Anime e Grazía Billias and Goudimova
Music Department
Offering diverse ensembles, applied lessons, state-ofthe-art facilities, and global performance opportunities. Majors and minors available. Experience vibrant concerts, mentorship, and a supportive musical community. Visit wlu.edu/music-department to learn more.
