Young Artist Project: Olivia Chiang
In the second of four profiles, meet a Thornton alum who featured human stories about classical guitarists for her Young Artist Project.
Garrett McQueen on diversity in classical music
On Feb. 20, Public Radio WBHM interviewed USC Thornton alum Garrett McQueen (MM ‘12) about his radio program “The Sound of 13,” which explores racial injustice through the lens of classical music. McQueen spoke about the lack of diversity in the classical music world, race and perspective in classical music history and the definition of… Continue reading Garrett McQueen on diversity in classical music
Karina DePiano featured in Nylon Manila on touring with Taylor Swift
USC Thornton Popular Music alumna Karina DePiano (BM ’16) was featured in a profile on Nylon Manila about her experience growing up Filipina, studying at Thornton and touring with Taylor Swift. Aptly known as pianist for the stars, DePiano has performed around the world with various pop musicians including Miley Cyrus, Rita Ora, Troye Sivan… Continue reading Karina DePiano featured in Nylon Manila on touring with Taylor Swift
Donald Brinegar Singers dedicate a concert to Morten Lauridsen
USC Thornton Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Composition Morten Lauridsen celebrated his 80th birthday on February 28, 2023. In honor of Lauridsen, the Donald Brinegar Singers and JPL Chorus performed a selection of his acclaimed music at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Pasadena, California. Led by conductor Donald Brinegar, “Morten Lauridsen at 80” featured pieces from… Continue reading Donald Brinegar Singers dedicate a concert to Morten Lauridsen
Young Artist Project: Daniel Mangiaracino
In the first of four profiles, meet a Thornton alum who combined creativity and passion to create their Young Artist Project.
Billy Childs premieres saxophone concerto with Kansas City Symphony
USC Thornton Composition program alumnus Billy Childs (BM ‘79) premiered his saxophone concerto with the Kansas City Symphony on Feb. 10. The concerto was conducted by Ruth Reinhardt and performed by saxophonist Steven Banks, as well as co-commissioned by nine major American orchestras including Kansas City Symphony. According to Classical Kansas City, Childs drew inspiration… Continue reading Billy Childs premieres saxophone concerto with Kansas City Symphony
Choongwoo Steve Ko wins 2023 ACDA Composition Focus Prize
USC Thornton alumnus Choongwoo Steve Ko (MM ’16) has won the 2023 ACDA Composition Focus Prize for his Tenor/Bass Choir score, “A Thousand Winds.” The American Choral Directors Association describes this prize as “a new initiative structured to meet identified gaps in repertoire needs of ACDA members and their ensembles.” This year’s contest drew over… Continue reading Choongwoo Steve Ko wins 2023 ACDA Composition Focus Prize
Young Artist Projects: Redesigning the Classical World
Stay tuned in the coming days for a series of profiles of Thornton students who combine creativity and passion to create their Young Artist Projects.
Karen Parks awarded with Most Distinguished Alumni by Furman University
USC Thornton vocal arts and opera faculty member Karen Parks received the Most Distinguished Alumni award from Furman University on Feb. 11 at the Bell Tower Ball, an annual gala event that celebrates alumni achievements. Parks, a Fulbright Scholar, Olivier Award nominee and Billboard chart-topper, was presented the award by Furman University’s president Dr. Elizabeth… Continue reading Karen Parks awarded with Most Distinguished Alumni by Furman University
USC Trailblazer: India Anderson
Becoming the first female drum major of the USC Trojan Marching Band set India Anderson on a path toward self-actualization and feminism.