Author Archive


A classical guitarist plays her instrument in front of a brightly colored artistic background.

Young Artist Project: Olivia Chiang

March 23, 2023

In the second of four profiles, meet a Thornton alum who featured human stories about classical guitarists for her Young Artist Project.


Photo of Garrett McQueen

Garrett McQueen on diversity in classical music

March 23, 2023

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


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Karina DePiano featured in Nylon Manila on touring with Taylor Swift

March 22, 2023

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

March 21, 2023

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


Photo of a music student in front of a colorful illustrated background.

Young Artist Project: Daniel Mangiaracino

March 16, 2023

In the first of four profiles, meet a Thornton alum who combined creativity and passion to create their Young Artist Project.


Photo of composer Billy Childs sitting in front of a piano.

Billy Childs premieres saxophone concerto with Kansas City Symphony

March 16, 2023

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


Photo of composer, Choongwoo Steve Ko

Choongwoo Steve Ko wins 2023 ACDA Composition Focus Prize

March 14, 2023

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


Music students smile holding their instruments in front of a colorful background.

Young Artist Projects: Redesigning the Classical World

March 9, 2023

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.


Photo of singer Karen Parks

Karen Parks awarded with Most Distinguished Alumni by Furman University

March 9, 2023

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


Photo collage of a woman dressed in a USC Trojan drum major costume holding a sword.

USC Trailblazer: India Anderson

March 7, 2023

Becoming the first female drum major of the USC Trojan Marching Band set India Anderson on a path toward self-actualization and feminism.