Saad Haddad named California Symphony’s Young American Composer-in-Residence
USC Thornton Composition alumnus Saad Haddad (BM ‘14) was named 2023-2026 Young American Composer-in-Residence by the California Symphony. For the next three seasons, Haddad will create, rehearse, premiere and record three major orchestral compositions alongside orchestra and music director, Donato Cabrera. “Saad has such a clear sense of expression and what he wants the music… Continue reading Saad Haddad named California Symphony’s Young American Composer-in-Residence
Bokyung “Bo” Byun announced as a winner of Avery Fisher Career Grant
USC Thornton Classical Guitar program alumna Bokyung “Bo” Byun (DMA ’20) was announced as a winner of the Avery Fisher Career Grant on March 28 by The Violin Channel. In 2021, Byun became the first woman in 20 years to win the Guitar Foundation of America competition, and her list of accomplishments is only growing.… Continue reading Bokyung “Bo” Byun announced as a winner of Avery Fisher Career Grant
Quinn Dymalski releases big band record with USC Thornton and Cinematic Arts students and alumni
On Feb. 10, USC Thornton Jazz Studies student Quinn Dymalski released a big band record titled, “Quinny D. Big Band I.” Composed by Dymalski and featuring about 21 total USC Thornton and Cinematic Arts students and alumni, the album is described as an amalgamation of progressive rock, experimental pop and classical music influences. “Though still… Continue reading Quinn Dymalski releases big band record with USC Thornton and Cinematic Arts students and alumni
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
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
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
Celeste Butler presents multimedia performances at the Grammy Museum
Popular music and arts leadership alum Celeste Butler (BM ‘18, MS ‘19) premiered two multimedia performances titled “Harlem South: A View Through the Lens” at the Grammy Museum on February 18. Featuring a cast of Grammy award-winning musicians and original compositions, the production spotlighted African American life in 1920’s South Carolina through the photography of… Continue reading Celeste Butler presents multimedia performances at the Grammy Museum