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I am a classically trained vocalist who continues to perform as well as teach. In February and March 2024, I presented a series of educational recitals for Blake students ages 4 to 18 as part of The Blake School's Equity Lab Series of equity-focused learning opportunities for the Blake community. To fulfil the school-wide efforts to foster a more equitable, inclusive, and engaged community, I taught students about the history of African American cultural aesthetics and concert repertoire through the works of noted African American composers William Grant Still, Charles Lloyd Jr., and H. Leslie Adams.
In 2023, I sang the role of African American contralto Marian Anderson in Theatre Elision's production of "First Ladies Suite" (LaChiusa). Audiences and critics loved the show! In summer 2023, I sang Gershwin and Puccini arias with Bloomington Symphony Orchestra led by conductor, Manny Laureano and performed in Journey North Opera Company's third-annual Changing the Narrative event. My lifelong dream has been to share with audiences my passion for storytelling through song. Throughout my training and performing career, I have continually examined what it means to be a woman of color in the classical music industry. In recent years, I have begun to explore the narrative power inherent in lyric theater by assuming new roles as a stage and music director and as a mentor to young composers. I am activity engaging in new partnerships utilizing "theater of sound," or lyric theater, to explore the stories of American people of the African diaspora. Contact me here to learn more. |
I have always maintained a dual career as a performing artist and arts education leader. As an educator, I have worked with opera companies, community schools, and art organizations throughout the U.S. In recent years, I have transitioned to teaching in higher education and PK-12 school settings, working as an educator, administrator, and board member. In 2022, I began an exciting new position as the PK-12 Director of Visual and Performing Arts at The Blake School. Previously, I was an adjunct faculty member at the University of St. Thomas, where I taught in the Dougherty Family College; as well as in the Music Department of the College of Arts and Sciences and for the Office of Student Affairs.
I hold an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Learning, from the University of St. Thomas and a Master of Music, Vocal Performance from the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University. I graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a BA in Italian Studies from the University of Minnesota.
Click the buttons below to listen to my recordings, and to learn more about my performing activities.
I hold an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Learning, from the University of St. Thomas and a Master of Music, Vocal Performance from the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University. I graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a BA in Italian Studies from the University of Minnesota.
Click the buttons below to listen to my recordings, and to learn more about my performing activities.