Piano
Gary Palmer, Co-Chair
Joseph Werner*, Co-Chair
Maria Fontes Arreaza
Paula Rodney Bobb
Mark Breeden
Sarah Chan
Alisa Curlee (on leave 2007--8)
Richard DeLaney
Jane K. Faust
Tamari Gurevich
Doleen Hood
Joseph Irerra
Willie LaFavor
Won Yong Lee
Liu Liu
Daniela Mineva
Dianne Johnson Pegg
Henning Vauth
Olexandra Yurchenko
Wenqing Zhang

Jazz Piano
Richard DeLaney

Guitar
John Wiesenthal, Chair
Dennis Repino
Ralph Louis Scicchitano
Tim Shannon
Craig Snyder

Woodwinds, Brass & Percussion
Diane Smith*, Co-Chair
Kathryn Scarbrough, Co-Chair

Woodwinds
Marcy Bacon (clarinet)
Jeanine M. Beahan (flute)
Nancy Boone* (saxophone)
Glennda Dove Pellito (flute)
Sally Ann Hart (flute)
Anna Petersen Stearns(oboe)
Margaret Quackenbush (clarinet)
Kirsta Rodean (bassoon)
Kathryn Scarbrough (flute)
Martha Sholl* (bassoon) (on leave 2008)
Rita George Simmons (flute)
Diane Smith* (flute)

Brass
Matthew Annin (horn)
Daniel Davis (trumpet)
Tim Dueppen(trombone)
Dusty Higgins(trombone)
Barbara Hull(trumpet)
Nate Rawls (trumpet)
Jeremy Stoner (tuba, euphonium)
Colleen Wolf ( horn)

Percussion
Richard Felice
Jillian Pritchard*

Voice
William Scott, Chair
Sandra Boysen
Riki Connaughton
Deborah Conquest
Christopher Jones
Evan Jones
Pamela Kurau
Munenori Sugitani
Allyn Van Dusen

Foundations in Music
Janie Marini, Chair
Barb Bonisteel
Dorothy Constable
Rosemary Eichenlaub
Charlotte Giebel,
Marianna Gonzalez
Alice Pratt

Music Therapy
Wade Richards, LCAT, NMT, MT-BC, Chair
Megan Coltoniak, MT-BC
Helen Halligan, MT-BC (Seniors Outreach)
Molly I. Phillips, MT-BC
Sara Stoffel
Jonathan Crissman, Intern

Strings
Kathleen Murphy Kemp*, Co-Chair
Joan Kinsella, Co-Chair and Suzuki Program Coordinator

Violin
Sarah Almétus
Ruth Marie Ballance
Jeanne Bourgeois
Eui Young Chung (on leave 2007--8)
Margaret Coote
John Fetter
Galina Konrad
Liana Koteva
Pia Liptak
Joanne Lowe
Angel OuYang*
Beth Remming
Klansee Reynolds
Lynn Rubier-Capron
Braunwin Sheldrick
Katie Worley

Viola
Ruth Marie Ballance
Jeanne Bourgeois
Margaret Coote
Joanne Lowe
Braunwin Sheldrick

Cello
Meredith Blecha
Lisa Caravan
Erin Ellis
Sandra Halleran
Kathleen Murphy Kemp*
Joan Kinsella
Nika Zlataric (on leave 2008)

Bass
Ralph Louis Scicchitano (electric)
Craig Snyder (electric)
Fred Stone (acoustic and electric)
Jeffrey Weeks (acoustic)

Harp
Grace Wong*

Jazz Studies
Nancy Boone (saxophone)
Richard DeLaney (piano)
Evan Dobbins (trombone, history)
Richard Felice (percussion)
Nate Rawls (trumpet)
Ralph Louis Scicchitano (guitar)
Craig Snyder (guitar)
Fred Stone (string bass, electric bass)

Music Theory, History,
Composition
& Conducting
Evan Dobbins
Michael Callahan
Rob W. Goodling
John Koslovsky**
David Sommerville
Nancy Strelau

Alexander Technique
Katherine Prit Fittipaldi

Dance
Diane Lewis, Chair
Victoria Gregory
Maureen Hickey
Christopher Morrison
Nydia Padilla-Rodriguez
Lisa Piccione
Coralis Rivera
Adrianne Rose
Katherine Wheeler

Ensembles
Diane Smith*, Ensembles Coordinator

Large Ensembles
Jeanne Coonan (winds)
Al "Corky" Fabrizio (band, winds)
John Fetter (orchestral)
Elizabeth Fino-Radin (orchestral)
Maryellen Giese (choral)
Kirsta Rodean (winds)
Casey Springstead (orchestral, winds)
Brian S. Story (Finger Lakes Concert Band)
Nancy Strelau (orchestral)


Small Ensembles
Marcy Bacon (clarinet choir)
Richard DeLaney (jazz combos)
Glennda Dove Pellito (flute choir)
Diane Lewis (dance)
Katherine McBain (horn ensembles)
Alice Pratt (choral)
Kathryn Scarbrough (flute ensemble)
Geoff Smith (jazz combo)
Craig Snyder (electric ensemble)
Matt Stuver (jazz combo)
Jim Tiller* (percussion ensembles)
Allan Ward (jazz combo)
John Wiesenthal (guitar ensembles)
Katie Worley (Suzuki strings)

Chamber Music Connection
Cristina Ballatori, Coordinator
Lisa R. Caravan*
Margaret Coote
Daniel Davis
Doleen Hood
Lynn Rubier-Capron
Diane Smith*
Patricia Sunwoo*


Guest Artist Ensembles
Antara Winds
Twenty/21
Plymouth Brass Quintet
 

* Member, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra
** In cooperation with the Eastman School of Music Community Education Division

In addition to teaching, Hochstein faculty members perform frequently with other professional organizations in the community and on both the "Spotlight on Faculty" and "Live from Hochstein" series.

Sarah Almétus (violin).Master of Music degree in Violin Performance with an emphasis on Suzuki Pedagogy from East Carolina University (NC); Bachelor of Music degree in Violin Performance from Biola University (CA); Suzuki training at North Carolina Suzuki Institute. Suzuki violin instructor in several Houston (TX) elementary schools and also maintained a private studio. Has performed with the Woodlands Symphony Orchestra (Houston) and was concertmaster of the East Carolina University Symphony Orchestra, among others. Co-founding member of the East String Quartet (2007). Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Matt Annin (horn). Master of Music degree in Performance from Northwestern University; Bachelor of Music degree in Performance from University of Wisconsin, Madison. Currently Assistant Principal Horn for the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and has performed with the St. Louis and Cincinnati Symphonies, was Third Horn for the Louisville Orchestra and has participated in a number of Music Festivals. Teachers include Gail Williams, David Krehbiel, Douglas Hill. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Maria Fontes Arreaza (piano).Masters and Bachelors degrees from the Julliard School. Has performed with Young Artists Orchestra, the Simon Bolivar Orchestra, and on radio and television in Venezuela. Chamber and solo performances in Caracas, Washington D.C., NYC, and Texas. Former faculty member at Galveston College (TX). Joined the Hochstein faculty in 1990.

Marcy Bacon (clarinet, ensembles). Currently pursuing doctoral work at the Eastman School of Music; Master of Music in Clarinet Performance from Michigan State University; Bachelor of Music in Clarinet Performance from Portland State University. Has taught in the Jamestown School District, the Arts Council for Chautauqua County, the Churchville-Chili Continuing Education Division, and has been an Adjunct Clarinet Instructor at the State University of New York at Fredonia since 2001. Has been a member of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and the Western New York Chamber Orchestra, has given solo and chamber recitals throughout Oregon, Michigan, and New York. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Ruth Marie Ballance (violin, viola). Master and Bachelor of Music degrees in Violin Performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music where she was the winner of the Darius Milhaud Performance Prize, CIM Concerto Competition, and Jerome Gross Prize in Violin. Was first teaching fellow, then faculty member of CREDO Opus One and CREDO Chamber Music in Oberlin (OH). Named Assistant Artistic Director of Opus One in January, 2006. Has been appointed to the faculties of CIM Preparatory Department, Broadway School of Music and Arts, and Austin Chamber Music Center Summer Workshop, among others. Extensive performing experience of solo, chamber music, and orchestral repertoire, and violin substitute for Cleveland Pops and Westmoreland Symphony (Greensburg, PA). Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Jeanine Beahan (flute). Master's degree from DePaul University (Chicago); Bachelor of Music degree from Ithaca College. Has performed with the Orchestra of Illinois, Chicago Civic Orchestra, Omaha Symphony, and Oak Park Opera Orchestra. Currently principal flutist for the Finger Lakes Symphony Orchestra and performs regularly with the Lydian Winds and the Greater Rochester Women's Orchestra. Has taught instrumental music in the Livonia Central School District since 1995. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1990.

Meredith Blecha (cello). Currently pursuing Doctoral degree from Eastman , where she serves as the teaching assistant to Distinguished Professor Alan Harris. Masters and Bachelor degree in cello performance from Indiana University. Suzuki training under Gilda Barston and David Evenchick. Past teaching experience at Indiana University's String Academy, and the Indianapolis Academy of Music. Served as principal of Indiana University's Chamber Orchestra, Spoleto Festival USA, and asst. principal of the Richmond Symphony. Extensive festival appearances. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Paula Rodney Bobb (piano). Master of Music degree in Piano Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music; Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from the University of Pittsburgh. Studied with Natalie Phillips and Patricia Zander. Active as soloist, accompanist and chamber musician. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1986.

Barb Bonisteel (Foundations in Music). Received Level I Orff certification through the Eastman School of Music. Developed Music to Grow program for children ages 18 months to 5 years. Currently teaching early childhood programs at the Pittsford, Penfield, Perinton and Irondequoit recreation centers. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2001.

Nancy Boone (saxophone, jaz studies). Master's and Bachelor's degrees in Woodwinds from the Eastman School of Music where she was recipient of the Performer's Certificate. 1991 winner of the North American Saxophone Alliance Classical Competition, and in 1993, the Phi Mu Alpha soloist with the Eastman Wind Ensemble. Occasional member of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and frequently performs with big bands and in orchestras of local theater productions. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1993.

Jeanne Bourgeois (violin, viola). Currently completing a doctorate at the Eastman School of Music; Master of Music degree in Violin Performance and Pedagogy from Northwestern University; Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Cincinnati College, Conservatory of Music. Received Suzuki training from the University of Cincinnati and has been on the faculties of University of Cincinnati Starling Program, Western Springs School of Talent, and the Eastman Community Music School. Has performed with the Syracuse Symphony, Sarasota Opera, Utah Festival Opera, and Civic Orchestra of Chicago, among others. Took First Place in the West Suburban Symphony Concerto Competition, and was also a winner in the 2001 Jevenes en Concierto International Competition in Spain. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Sandra Boysen (voice). Doctor of Music in Voice Performance and Master of Music in Voice Performance from Florida State University. Manhattan cabaret debut in 2001 at NYC's Don't Tell Mama Cabaret. Held teaching internship from the National Association of Teachers of Singing, and Artist Fellowship from Bach Aria Festival. Studied/coached with Roy Delp, Carol Webber and Timothy Hoekman. Performed throughout the Philippines and in roles with Mobile Opera, Palm Beach Opera, Pensacola Opera, Opera Rochester and others, as well as on Live from Hochstein. Recitalist throughout U.S. and frequent soloist with Rochester Oratorio Society, the Eastman School of Music, Cornell, and others. Performed world premiere of works by composer Paul Stuart in 2003 and 2007. Current faculty member at Nazareth College. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2000.

Mark Breeden (piano). Master of Music and Bachelor of Music degrees in Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music, where he is currently pursuing the Doctor of Musical Arts degree. Has taught privately in the San Francisco and Rochester areas for the past 11 years, and has also been active as a church musician, accompanist, and opera coach. Has given performances throughout Wisconsin, California, Illinois, and New York states, and continues to be an active performer. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Michael Callahan (music theory). PhD candidate in Music Theory at Eastman School of Music. Research interests include Baroque improvisation, post--tonal music, Romantic Lieder, jazz, the history of theory, and pedagogy, among others. Active as an arranger, conductor, visual designer (for marching bands), adjudicator, woodwind doubler (saxes, clarinets, flute), and keyboardist. Studies harpsichord with Dr. WIlliam Porter. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Lisa R. Caravan (cello, Suzuki cello, chamber ensembles). Master of Music degree in Performance and Literature with Orchestral Studies at the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from Temple University. Former associations with the Greater Rochester Women’s Orchestra, the Eastman Philharmonia, Roberts Wesleyan College-Community Orchestra, among others. Teaching experience includes school instrumental program and private instruction. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Sarah S. Chan (piano). Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music; Master of Music in Piano Performance from the Peabody Conservatory; Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from the Manhattan School of Music. Further musical training at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris and University of Michigan; studies in humanities with distinction at University of Michigan, Columbia University, and The Sorbonne. Has taught at L’Institut de Culture Musicale in Paris, both the Eastman School’s Collegiate and Community Education Divisions, and Harford Community College in Maryland. Received Award for Excellence in Teaching at Eastman as studio piano instructor to undergraduates. Has won various awards and performed internationally, most notably in the U.S. and France, and as piano soloist with the National "Mihail Jora" Philharmonic of Romania, the Romanian State Symphony, and the Seattle Philharmonic. Held residencies in Paris, New York, Hong Kong, Seattle, Ann Arbor, Baltimore, and Rochester, and continues to concertize internationally. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Eui Young Chung (violin). Doctor of Musical Arts and Master of Music in Violin Performance from the University of Texas at Austin; Bachelor of Arts in Violin Performance from California State University at Fresno. Has taught violin and theory in the nationally-recognized UT String Project, as well as teaching strings and directing the orchestras for the Kaimuki (WA), and Punahuo School Districts in Honolulu (HI). Received Suzuki teacher training at Ithaca College. Has performed with the Syracuse Symphony, the Fresno Philharmonic, the Honolulu Symphony, the Cayuga Chamber Orchestra, and the Binghamton Philharmonic, among others. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Megan Coltoniak (music therapy). Board certified music therapist. Bachelors in Music Therapy from SUNY Fredonia. Interned at New Avenues to Independence in Cleveland, OH in 2006. Proficient musical background in guitar, violin, and piano. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Riki Connaughton (voice). Bachelor of Arts from the University of Rochester. Received vocal training from Tri-Cities Opera in Binghamton and the Eastman School of Music. Has appeared in many opera productions in the Rochester area. Also appeared with the Youngstown, Ohio Symphony and at the Fort Collins, Colorado Bach Festival. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1998.

Deborah Conquest (voice). Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, where she is currently a candidate for the Doctor of Musical Arts; Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from SUNY Fredonia. Has taught at SUNY Fredonia, Brevard Community College, Musical Arts Center of Cincinnati, Barry University, and Florida International University in Miami, where she taught both private voice lessons and vocal pedagogy class. Extensive performance credits include opera performances with Teatro Giglio, Hispanic American Lyric Theatre, FIU Opera Theatre, as well as solo recitals and chamber performances throughout New York, Ohio, and Italy. Has worked with a wide range of musical styles and student levels/ages. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Dorothy Constable (Foundations in Music). Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Nazareth College. Former music instructor at Immaculate Conception Elementary School in Wellsville, NY. Studied early childhood development at Eastman School of Music, where she was certified in Orff I. Is the outsource Orff instructor for the Eugenio Maria de Hostos Charter School (grades K-5). Joined Hochstein faculty in 1999.

Jeanne Coonan (ensembles). Master's degree from Ithaca College; Bachelor of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music. Currently teaches instrumental music in the Webster School District. Has been adjudicator and clinician for concert bands, marching bands and drum corps in 22 states and Canada. Contrabassoonist and concert manager for the Hochstein Music Educators Wind Band. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1992.

Margaret Coote (violin, viola). Master of Music in Viola Performance from the Eastman School of Music, where she was awarded the Graue Musicology Award; Bachelor of Arts in German Language and Literature from Swarthmore College. Additional music study at the San Francisco Conservatory and San Francisco State University with Susan Bates and Paul Yarbrough, as well as a teaching seminar with violin pedagogue Zaven Melikian. Suzuki training under Judy W. Bossuat. Has taught private students and coached ensembles in the San Francisco Bay area schools, and is currently a faculty member of the Eastman Community Music School. Has performed with the Berkeley, Vallejo, and California Symphonies.Co–founding member of the East String Quartet. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Jonathan Crissman (music therapy intern). Bachelor of Music in Guitar Performance from Houghton College, currently finishing Bachelor of Science in Music Therapy from Slippery Rock University. Studied guitar with Anton Machleder and renaissance lute with Rick Falkenstein; has played for Pepe Romero, Manuel Barrueco, William Kanengiser and Sharon Isbin. Joined Hochstein as music therapy intern in 2007.

Alisa Curlee (piano). (on leave 2007--8) Currently completing DMA in Accompanying and Chamber Music at the Eastman School of Music where she received a Master's degree in Performance and Literature and a Bachelor of Music in Applied Music (piano). Recipient of numerous scholarships and awards and has performed extensively across the north and southeast regions of the U.S. Serves on the faculty of Roberts Wesleyan College. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1998; rejoined faculty in 2002.

Daniel Davis (trumpet). Master of Music in Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music where he studied with James Thompson; Bachelor of Music in Performance from Oberlin Conservatory of Music where he was a member of the Apelila Brass Quintet. During the summer of 2004, performed in Japan, Taiwan, and Macao with the Eastman Wind Ensemble. Has performed with the Buffalo Philharmonic, Rochester Philharmonic, Palm Beach Opera, Rochester Chamber Orchestra, Rochester Oratorio Society, and as soloist with the Greece Symphony Orchestra. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Richard DeLaney (piano, jazz piano, ensembles, jazz studies). Master's degree from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor's degree from Hobart College. Native of Lima, Peru. Active as a jazz pianist, composer, and arranger in Rochester for more than 30 years. Currently musical director of Mambo Kings (www.mambokingdom.com), a Latin jazz group with performances with orchestras throughout the US and Canada. Produced two albums for Mambo Kings, "Marinera" (2003) and "Live!" (2005). Frequent performer on the "Live from Hochstein" and "Spotlight on Faculty" series. Recipient of the 1996 Faculty Service Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1985.

Evan Dobbins (trombone, music history, jazz studies). Master’s degree in Jazz Studies and Contemporary Media from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Harvard University. Has extensive performing and teaching experience and is also on the faculty of Monroe Community College where he teaches music theory and jazz history. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Glennda Dove Pellito (flute, ensembles). Associate diploma from the Royal College of Music, London; Bachelor's degree from the Eastman School of Music. Studied with Joseph Mariano, Jean-Pierre Rampal, John Francis, and Marcel Moyse. Performs with the Geneseo Woodwind Quintet, Mercury Opera, Rochester Chamber Orchestra, Kunde Chorale, Rochester Oratorio, and the Sampler Trio. Recipient of the 2006 Faculty Service Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1974.

Tim Dueppen (trombone). Master of Music in Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music, where he was teaching assistant and student conductor for John Marcellus and the Eastman Trombone Choir; Bachelor of Music in Performance from UCLA. Currently Professor of Trombone and Low Brass Studies at Nazareth College, where he has developed the college’s first trombone choir. Performed with the Palisades Symphony Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the LA Bones, and the Eastman Trombone Choir. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Erin Ellis (cello). Currently pursuing a doctorate degree from the Eastman School of Music; holds both Master and Bachelor of Music degrees in Cello Performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music. Suzuki teacher training with pedagogue Tanya Carey, and has taught at Avon Lake School of Music and Cleveland Institute Preparatory Department. Active as an orchestral and chamber performer, and has been a member of the National Repertory Orchestra, as well as a participant of the International Holland Music Sessions and the String Quartet Program at the Cleveland Institute. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Al "Corky" Fabrizio (ensembles). Master's and Bachelor's degrees from Ithaca College. Retired after 34 years of public school teaching. Staff member of Columbia Pictures Publications and Shawnee Press, and has published method books and music for concert and marching bands. Conductor of the Hochstein Music Educators Wind Band and Youth Wind Symphony. Has made more than 400 guest appearances with festival bands and has earned a New York State Music Association award for Outstanding Conductor. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1992.

Jane K. Faust (piano). Graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music, where she studied with Lucille Monaghan. Past president of the Rochester Piano Teachers' Guild, Inc. Pianist at Christ Church Unity. Recipient of the 1993 Hochstein Faculty Service Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1973.

Richard Felice (percussion, jazz studies). Music studies at Berklee College of Music in Boston and Brockport State College in New York. Active as a jazz drummer for more than 30 years, performing throughout the U.S. and Virgin Islands. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002.

John Fetter (violin, ensembles).Currently completing a Doctorate of Philosophy in Music Education at the Eastman School of Music where he received a Master of Music degree. Bachelor of Music in Violin & Music Education from the University of Northern Iowa Has extensive experience as a violin instructor, chamber music coach, chamber orchestra director and orchestra conductor. Assistant Professor of Music Education (strings) at the Eastman School. Has taught public school and performs regularly as a violinist with a number of regional orchestras. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002.

Elizabeth Fino-Radin (ensembles). Master of Music Education degree from Pennsylvania State University specializing in instrumental music and strings; Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from SUNY Fredonia; Suzuki Books 1 and 2 Certification; NYS Initial Certification in Music K-12; and Hochstein alumnus! Currently an elementary string instructor in the Victor Central Schools. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Kathryn Pritt Fittipaldi (Alexander Technique). Master's degree in Classical String Performance, Irish World Music Centre, University of Limerick, Ireland; Bachelor of Music in Cello from Ithaca College. Member of the Suzuki Association of the Americas. Founding member of the East Quartet. Cello instructor at Hochstein from 2003–2007. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2003.

Charlotte Giebel (Foundations in Music). Master of Theological Studies degree from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary; Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Queens College of the City University of New York. Received Orff I, II, and III certification, and training in Orff, Kodaly and Dalcroze. Currently coordinates choral and instrumental music for Covenant Presbyterian Church in Greece. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1985.

Maryellen Giese (choral ensembles). Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education (with piano as major instrument) with a minor in voice from Nazareth College, and pursued graduate studies at SUNY Brockport and the Eastman School of Music. Retired from the Brockport Central School District where she served as a vocal music teacher and Chair of the Music Department. Directs youth vocal ensembles and handbell choir at First Presbyterian Church in Brockport. Directs senior citizen chorus, the "Sweden Singers." Multiple listings in Who's Who Among American Educators. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002.

Rob Goodling (music history). Master of Arts in Musicology and Affiliate Professorship in Music Education, Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Lebanon Valley College. Performed with the 553 Air Force Band, Corning Philharmonic and Elmira Symphony Orchestra.  Conductor of Corning Philharmonic Youth Orchestra and Director of Music at Salem Church, Rochester. Taught orchestra, chorus, voice, theory/composition and music history at Corning-Painted Post West and Churchville-Chili Senior High Schools. Recipient of Outstanding Choral Conductor and Outstanding Music Educator awards by Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Roberts Wesleyan College-Community Orchestra, the Wenger Corporation, M.I.T. and SUNY-Fredonia. Multiple listings in Who's Who Among American Educators. NYSSMA vocal adjudicator. Directed/performed in more than 50 musical theater productions in upstate New York. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002.

Marianna Gonzalez (Foundations in Music). Bachelor of Music degree with High Distinction from the Eastman School of Music. Received Orff I, II, and III certification. Member of the American Recorder Society and the Rochester Chapter of the American Orff Schulwerk Society. Currently teaches Orff at Allendale-Columbia School. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1993.

Victoria Gregory (Dance).Teaching certificate from the Dance Education Laboratory in NYC. Extensive ballet training at Ruth PAae Foundatinon School in Chicago and the Joffrey School in NYC. Past teaching experience at Hochstein (mime), 72nd Street Studios in NYC, Botsford School of Dance and currently at DancEncounters in Rochester.Training in Broadway Theatre Dance, Ballet, Jazz, Tap , and Mime. Re-joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Tamari Gurevich (piano). Currently completing doctoral studies at the Eastman School of Music where she is a Teaching Assistant at the collegiate level and a faculty member of the Eastman Community Music School; Master of Music and Post Master's degree in Piano Performance from Indiana University; Bachelor of Music from the Tbilisi State Conservatory in the Republic of Georgia. Has taught at both the collegiate and preparatory levels at the University of Notre Dame, is an international prize winner, and has extensive performance experience as a soloist, accompanist, and in chamber groups. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Sandra Halleran (cello). Master of Music in Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music, where she also graduated from the Orchestral Studies Diploma Program with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and is currently in the Post-Baccalaureate Certification Program in Music Education at Nazareth College; Bachelor of Music in Cello Performance from the Rice University Shepherd School of Music. Suzuki training under Carey Chaney at the Southwestern Ontario Suzuki Institute and Pam Devenport at the Hartt School of Music. Has taught at the University of Akron, the Akron Public School System, the Hartwick College Summer Music Festival, as well as privately in her own studio. Has held principal positions with the New World Symphony, the Wheeling, West Virginia Symphony, and the Spoleto Festival Orchestra and has performed with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the National Ballet of Canada, the Marini String Quartet, and the Genesee String Quartet, among others. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Helen Halligan (music therapy). Graduate studies at Ithaca College, the Eastman School of Music, Oakland University, St. Bernard's Seminary and Colgate Rochester Divinity School; Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education from Ithaca College. Former organist and choir director for many churches in New York and Pennsylvania, currently of St. Mary's Church in Rochester. Member and former director of NPM Rochester Chapter. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1994.

Sally Ann Hart (flute). Master's degree in Flute Performance from the Juilliard School of Music; Bachelor of Arts in music from Case Western Reserve University. Certified to teach Suzuki method through Suzuki Flute Institute International, East Tennessee State University. Professional orchestral experience in New York City and North Carolina. Performs frequently in chamber ensembles with piano, strings, winds. Former faculty member of Turtle Bay Music School in New York City, and the Cleveland Music School Settlement. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1997.

Maureen Hickey (dance). Master’s degree in Sports Medicine and Athletic Training from Temple University; Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education with a concentration in dance and minor in music from SUNY Cortland. Member of the Cortland Ballroom Dance Formation Team and has competed for Cortland in international competitions in Blackpool, England and Edinborough, Scotland. Certified by the Dance Educators of America and has competed as an amateur and professional in Ballroom and Country & Western Dancing. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Dusty Higgins (trombone). Master of Music in Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music ; Bachelor of Music Education from Oklahoma Baptist University. Assistant Band Director at the Carl Albert High School in Oklahoma, instructor at Oklahoma Baptist University Preparatory Department, as well as Trombone Artist in Residence for the Alfredo de Saint--Malo Music Festival of Panama. Maintained a private studio in Oklahoma. Also active as a freelance performer. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Doleen Hood (piano). Master of Music in Accompanying from the Cleveland Institute of Music where she was an Accompanying Fellow and recipient of the Gwendolyn Koldofsky Award in Accompanying; Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance (summa cum laude) from D'Angelo School of Music. Has extensive experience as a collaborative pianist and coach working with the Dale Warland Singers, Annapolis and Baltimore Operas, Heifetz Institute, Paul Hill Chorale and Washington Singers, Baltimore Chamber Orchestra, Chesapeake Chorale, and studio work at the Eastman School of Music and Peabody Institute. Featured performer on recitals and concert series throughout the US and Europe and has held faculty positions at the MacPhail School, Crown College, and Bethel College. Recipient of the 2004 Faculty Service Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1999.

Barbara Hull (trumpet). Master of Music in Trumpet Performance and Literature, and the Performer’s Certificate from the Eastman School of Music, currently in Eastman’s doctoral program, where she is Assistant Director of the Brass Guild; Bachelor of Music from Houghton College.FOrmer teacher at the Belfast (NY) School District, the Csehy Summer School of Music in Philadelphia, and she has maintained a private trumpet studio since 1983. Principal Trumpet of the Albany Symphony Orchestra, and she has also performed with the New Mexico Brass Quintet, Opera Southwest, Rochester Chamber Orchestra, and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Joseph Irrera (piano). Master’s Degree from the Peabody Conservatory, where he studied with Alexander Shtarkman; Bachelor of Music Degree with distinction from the Eastman School of Music where he also pursued undergraduate studies at the Community Music School. Has appeared as soloist with numerous orchestras including the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and at The Kennedy Center in Washington (DC) and this season will make his Carnegie Hall debut as second prizewinner of the Bradshaw and Buono International Piano Competition. Has taken top prizes at numerous piano competitions including the Guthman International Piano Competition, the Young Artist’s International Piano Competition, second prize at the International Piano Competition in Varna, Bulgaria, and third prize at the International Piano Competition at The Moulin d’Ande, France. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Christopher Jones (voice, musical theatre workshop). Master's degree in Vocal Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education from Roberts Wesleyan College. Extensive performance background with such groups as the Rochester Oratorio Society, the Genesee Valley Orchestra and Chorus, the Finger Lakes Chorale and the Penfield Symphony Orchestra. Current faculty member at Roberts Wesleyan College music department. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1988.

Evan Jones (voice). Doctoral candidate at Eastman School. Bachelor of Music and Masters of Music in Vocal Performance from Florida State University. Extensive performance credits in opera with Compania Lirica Nacional de Costa Rica, Berkshire Opera Company, Eastman Opera Theatre and solo performances with Augusta Choral Society and the Tallahassee Community Choir. Previous teaching experience at School of Fine Arts (Alabama), Florida high schools, Florida State University, Gulf Coast Community College, and curently at Eastman with non-majors. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Kathleen Murphy Kemp (cello). Master's and Bachelor's of Music degrees from the Eastman School of Music, where she was awarded the coveted Performer's Certificate. Assistant principal cello with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and is the winner of several solo competitions. Has appeared with the Society for Chamber Music in Rochester, the Rochester Chamber Orchestra, Fortissimo! Music Festival, "Live from Hochstein," the Roycroft Music Festival and Skaneateles Festival. Served on the board of Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra for 10 years. Serves on the faculty of Eastman School of Music and Eastman Community Music School. Recipient of 2003 Hochstein Faculty Service Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1980.

Joan Kinsella (cello, Suzuki program coordinator). Attended Syracuse University in a graduate string fellowship program; Bachelor's degree in Music from University of Southern California; received Suzuki Cello Pedagogy Training at Ithaca College and the Chicago Suzuki Institute. Member of the Suzuki Association of America and SAA registered teacher. Active locally as a freelance musician and has performed with the Rochester Oratorio Society, the Rochester Broadway Theatre League, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra. Recipient of 2007 Hochstein Faculty Service Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1991.

Galina (Halia) Konrad-Bertram (violin, ensembles). Master of Music degree from State Conservatory in L'vov, Ukraine; Bachelor of Arts from Musical College in Ternopol, Ukraine. Currently concertmistress of Genesee Valley Orchestra and Chorus and a member of the Emmanuel String Quartet. Received Suzuki training at the Eastman School of Music and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1997.

Liana Koteva (violin). Degrees in Music Performance from the Eastman School of Music and the Harid Conservatory of Music and has won numerous National and International Awards and Competitions. Originally from Sofia-Bulgaria, and raised in a family of well-known musicians, she started playing the violin at age 6 and came to the US in 1994 to pursue a career in music. Has been a full time member of the Rochester Philharmonic since 2001 and enjoys a chamber, solo, and a teaching career both in America and Europe. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Pamela Kurau (voice). Doctorate in Vocal Performance from the Eastman School of Music, a Master's degree from University of Missouri and Bachelor's degree from the University of Connecticut. Frequent soloist with Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Rochester Oratorio Society, Rochester Society for Chamber Music and "Live from Hochstein," among others. Has performed internationally in Germany, Austria, Finland, Japan and China. Faculty member of both Eastman School of Music and SUNY Geneseo, both of which have honored her with prestigious teaching awards. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2001.

Willie LaFavor (piano) Doctor of Music from Indiana University; Master of Music in Piano Performance from the New England Conservatory; Bachelor of Music from Jacksonville University. Former faculty member of Indiana Wesleyan University, the New England Conservatory Preparatory Program, as well as the Young Pianist’s Program at Indiana University, where he was also an Associate Instructor. Was staff accompanist at Butler University and DePauw University, and has performed at the Chautauqua Institute and with the Indianapolis Youth Chorale. Active as a church musician and serves as Director of Music and Worship at the Messiah Lutheran Church in Rochester. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Won Yong Lee (piano). Master of Music in Performance from the Eastman School of Music where she is currently completing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance and Literature and serves as a Teaching Assistant; Bachelor of Music "Profesorado de piano" from the Conservatorio Juan Jose Castro in Buenos Aires. Has won numerous scholarships and awards for teaching and has international performance experience in Argentina, France and the US. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Diane Lewis
(dance, ensembles). Master's degree in Dance from SUNY Brockport; Bachelor's degree in Education from Buffalo State University. Former member of SUNY Brockport Dance faculty. Has toured Europe and the U.S. as a soloist with the American Classical Ballet and the Festival Ballet of New York, and has danced as a principal opposite Margot Fonteyn with the Niagara Frontier Ballet at the Eastman Theatre. Completed 35-hour seminar in the Vaganova technique. Winner of the 1994 Faculty Service Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1975.

Pia Liptak (violin) Doctor of Musical Arts degree and Master of Music in Violin Performance from the Eastman School of Music; Diploma in Violin Performance from the Carl Neilsen Academy in Denmark. Former faculty member of the Odense Music School (Denmark), and currently maintains a private studio in Rochester. Concertmaster of the University of Rochester Symphony Orchestra, and performs extensively with the Liptak-Beaudette Duo (violin and piano), and the Mizutani-Liptak Duo (violin and Japanese koto). Has performed throughout Europe and North America. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Liu Liu (piano) Bachelor of Music in Performance from the Eastman School of Music, where she is currently pursuing a dual Master of Music in Performance and Music Education. Has taught at the Liu Ning International Piano School, the Culture and Arts Training Center, and the ShenYang Conservatory in China and currently teaches group piano at the Eastman School of Music. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Joanne Lowe (violin, viola). Master's and Bachelor's degrees in Fine Arts from SUNY Buffalo. Studied with Martha Katz of the Cleveland Quartet. Member of the Suzuki Association of America. Has performed with the Buffalo Philharmonic from 1976-2003. Also performed with Syracuse Symphony, Love Unlimited Orchestra with Barry White, Fortissimo! and Tanglewood Festivals, Mercury Opera Company, Rochester Oratorio Society and regional chamber orchestras. Featured on" Live from Hochstein" and "Spotlight on Faculty". Also teaches Suzuki strings and general music at Victor Primary School. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1989.

Janie Marini (Foundations in Music). Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Nazareth College as well as Early Childhood Music and Orff Levels I, II, and III certification from the Eastman School of Music. Has taught piano since 1981 and has extensive experience as a Pastoral Musician and Choir Director throughout the Rochester area. Currently Director of Music for the Fairport Community Vacation Bible School. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1999.

Daniela Mineva (piano). Pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts at the Eastman School of Music; Master of Music from the University of North Texas and Artist Certificate from Northwestern University; Bachelor of Music from the State Academy of Music in Bulgaria. Has extensive teaching experience at both the collegiate and preparatory levels and has won numerous scholarships and awards, including Second Prize in the 1998 Steinway Piano Competition (Dallas, TX). Has performed internationally as a soloist and orchestral pianist at venues including the Tanglewood Music Center Orchestra, the New Symphony Orchestra (Sofia, Bulgaria), North Texas Symphony Orchestra, among many others, and has performed for radio broadcasts in Bulgaria, Italy, and the US. Founding member of contemporary music ensemble, Twenty/21. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Christopher Morrison (dance). Ten years experience with Professor Rex Nettleford and the National Dance Theatre Company of Jamaica. Recipient of the National Dance Award. Fifteen years as member of Garth Fagan Dance Company. Extensive experience as a teacher and performer. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Angel OuYang (violin). Master's degree in Violin Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor's degree in Violin from Soochow University in Taipei, Taiwan. Member of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1996.

Nydia Padilla-Rodriguez (dance, ensembles). Master's degree in Education from SUNY Brockport; Bachelor's degree in Dance and Elementary Education; completed Certificate of Advanced Studies in Administration. Director of Academic Career Counseling and Community Partnerships at Rochester City School District. Former member of Bottom-of-the- Bucket, But... Dance Company (now Garth Fagan Dance). Founder and Artistic Director of Borinquen Dance Theatre, formerly a Hochstein ensemble-in- residence, since 1984. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1984.

Gary Palmer (piano). Pursuing Ph.D. in Music Education at Eastman School of Music, where he earned a Master's degree in Piano Performance and Literature; Bachelor's degree from Nazareth College. Former faculty of Eastman Community Music School where he was awarded the Jack L. Frank Community Service Award. Soloist with Greece Symphony Orchestra, Greater Rochester Women's Philharmonic, Elmira Symphony, and at various college campuses throughout New York State. Awarded National Citation from the Points of Light Foundation in 1991. His annual Night of Encores concerts at Eastman and Hochstein have raised more than $60,000 for Lupus research. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2001.

Dianne Johnson Pegg (piano, group piano). Bachelor's degree in Piano with minor in Voice from Southern Methodist University. Pursued graduate studies at SMU and the University of Buffalo. Currently Organist and Director of Contemporary Music for Rush United Methodist Church. Over 33 years experience as a private piano teacher, church organist, choir director and vocalist. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1984.

Anna Petersen Stearns (oboe). Bachelor of Music and Performer's Certificate with distinction from the Eastman School of Music. Member of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and former member of the Eastman Wind Ensemble and the Eastman Philharmonia. Finalist in the Coleman Chamber Music Competition in 2006 and 2007, and has been a soloist with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra numerous times. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Molly Phillips (music therapy). Board Certified Music Therapist. Master of Music Education degree with a concentration on Music Therapy from the University of Georgia (Athens); Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education, Magna Cum Laude, from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.Completed Music Therapy Internship at Hochstein with additional clinical experience at the University of Georgia.Professional member of AMTA American Music Therapy Association. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Lisa Piccione (dance).Spanish Dance studies at Ballet Hispanico (NYC) with Melinda Marquez and Maria Alba, and additional studies in Spain with noted artist Antonio Martin ("El Toleo"), among others. Has appeared in telecast performances in Spain, England and in the US, including an Alanis Morrisette music video and was principal dancer in "Noche Flamenca" and "Tablao Flamenco" at Le Club at La Mama, Etc (NYC), and with Sol y Sombra and Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre, as well as with Jose Molina's Spanish Dance Company. In Spain, principal dancer in Pepe Camacho's Company and appeared at the Plaza de Toros de Barcelona, El Gran Casino de San Pere de Ribes, and El Tablao de Carmen, among others. Has taught at Ballet Hispanico, the Alvin Ailey Dance School, and the Amor de Dios in Barcelona, Spain. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Alice S. Pratt (Foundations in Music). Graduate of Nazareth College and received Orff Level Certification from the Eastman School of Music. Multiple-year inductee in “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers” and published composer, creator of unique lessons, and nationally recognized presenter for the American Orff Schulwerk Association and Canada Orff. Has served as vocal music teacher for the Rochester City School District for over 30 years. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Jillian Pritchard (percussion) Master of Music from Northwestern University; Bachelor of Music in Performance and Music Education from the Eastman School of Music, where she was awarded the Performers' Certificate. Adjunct faculty member of the Finger Lakes Community College, and maintains a private teaching studio. Performs regularly with the Buffalo Philharmonic, the Rochester Philharmonic, and the RPO Marimba Band. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Dennis Repino (guitar). Currently pursuing doctoral studies at the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor and Masters of Music degrees from State University of New York at Fredonia. Has performed as a soloist and a member of the Fredonia Guitar Quartet, the Chadwick Bay Guitar Duo, and the Rochester Guitar Duo. Recently recorded original compositions for guitar. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Klansee Reynolds (violin). Currently pursuing a Master of Arts and Ph.D. in Music Theory at the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor in Music Performance, magna cum laude with honors, in the liberal arts from the Meadows School of the Arts, Southern Methodist University in Dallas (TX) and has performed as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player with professional and semi-professional ensembles in Arkansas, Texas, and Colorado, as well as in Germany and France. Has maintained a private studio and taught privately in public schools since 1996. ECC and Suzuki training (violin books 1-3) with Carrie Reuning-Hummel (ITE and University of Memphis Summer Institutes). Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Margaret Quackenbush (clarinet). Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Performance and Literature (clarinet) from the Eastman School of Music; Master of Arts in Music History from the University of Oregon School of Music; Bachelor of Arts in Music, with distinction, from the University of Minnesota (Morris). Member of the Antara Winds and performs regularly as soloist, chamber, and orchestral clarinetist. Former member of the Eugene (OR) Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Opera, the Oregon Bach Festival and the Oregon Wind Quintet. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1979.

Nate Rawls (trumpet, jazz studies). Studied at LA Valley State College and the Eastman School of Music. Founder of the Nate Rawls Big Band and the Sound Spectrum Band, which perform throughout the U.S. and internationally. Recipient of the coveted Duke Ellington Award for excellence in music. Brass instructor for the Empire Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps, Associate Member of the RPO's Music Collaborative Program and Project U.N.I.Q.U.E.'s Artist-in-Residence Program. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1978.

Beth Remming(violin). Master of Music Education from Nazareth College; Bachelor's degree in Music Education and Certificate in Music in Special Education from the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam. Former music teacher with the Catholic Diocese of Rochester; currently a string teacher with the Brighton School District. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1999.

Wade M. Richards (music therapy, Internship Director). Board certified music therapist and Licensed Creative Arts Therapist. Bachelor of Science degree in Music Therapy/Applied Voice from SUNY Fredonia with additional training in Neurologic Music Therapy from the Center for the Biomedical Research in Music at Colorado State University. Orff-Schulwerk training from Eastman School of Music, University of Kentucky and Arizona State University. Professional member of the American Music Therapy Association. Owns private practice and business, "Time For Music." Published author and composer. Recipient of the 2005 Faculty Service Recognition Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1995.

Coralis Rivera (dance). BFA in Dance Performance at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Kirsta Rodean (bassoon, ensembles). Master of Arts in Music Education from the Eastman School of Music where she received her Bachelor of Music Degree in Bassoon Performance and Music education. Currently teaches in Fairport and is the Concert Band director. Has performed with many groups including the Wichita Falls (TX) Symphony Orchestra, Kunde Chorale, The Opera Factory, the Roberts Wesleyan College Community Orchestra and many others. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Adrianne Rose (dance). Currently lead teacher of the Rochester Dance and Cultural Exchange, and cofounder of Zebra Kids Performance Group. Is a member of Sankofa, teaches African Dance at the Metrocenter YMCA and has served as guest artist at the Charter School of Science and Technology. Held a three-year intensive African dance apprenticeship with "Zaipo" Vincent R. Oula, with additional training in African Drumming with Khalid Saleem, Afro-Caribbean dance with Frances Hare and modern dance with Garth Fagan, among others. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2001.

Lynn Rubier-Capron (violin). Master of Music in Violin at Florida State University and Master of Divinity degree at Columbia Theological Seminary; Bachelor of Music degree in Violin at Converse College. Received Suzuki training for Books 1-5. Maintains a private studio and has been a faculty member of Columbia College and Presbyterian College, among others. Has performed with the South Carolina Philharmonic and Chamber Orchestras, Augusta Symphony, and others, and is active in the Rochester folk music community. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Kathryn Scarbrough (flute, ensembles). Master of Music in Flute Performance from Arizona State University School of Music (Full Regents Scholar). Bachelor of Science in Flute Performance from Towson State University (MD) where she was awarded Most Outstanding Graduate in Music, 1994. Former principal flutist of U.S. Marine Corps Band in Quantico (VA). Founding member of contemporary music ensemble, Twenty/21. Active performer and collaborator. Recent performances include "Live from Hochstein, " "Spotlight on Faculty" Concert Series, and several guest artist and collaborative chamber appearances. Former teachers include Trygve Peterson and Sara Nichols Landgren. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002.

Ralph Louis Scicchitano (guitar, jazz studies). Graduate of the Navy School of Music and Berklee College of Music. Pursued special studies at Central Texas College and SUNY Geneseo. Soloist and performing lecturer on The History of Music Through the Guitar. Author of Almost Everything About Guitar Chords, Position Primer for Guitar Students, and Incentive Pieces for Guitar Students. 1995 and 1998 NYSCA grant recipient. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1985.

William Scott (voice). Master of Science degree from the University of Buffalo with additional work at the Manhattan School of Music, the University of Missouri and SUNY Brockport; Bachelor of Science degree from SUNY Fredonia. Lifetime member of the Music Educators National Conference and the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA)in which he served on National and State Committees. Past Urban Chair for NYSSMA and member of the Multicultural Committee and Awards and Recognition Committee of NYSSMA. Certified All-State Vocal Adjudicator for NYSSMA and frequent guest conductor for area All-State choirs and All-County choirs throughout New York State. Public school music educator for over 35 years; adjunct professor of choir, Alfred University. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1979.

Tim Shannon (guitar). Pursuing Doctor of Musical Arts Degree in Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music; Master of Music degree in Music Performance from SUNY Buffalo; Bachelor of Professional Studies in Guitar Performance from SUNY Empire State College, with additional studies from Nazareth College and the Eastman School of Music. Faculty member at Roberts Wesleyan College and member of the Guitar Foundation of America. Studied with Nicholas Goluses, Joanne Castellani, Matthew Ardizzone, Timothy Schmidt, Rick Falkenstein; participated in master classes with Christopher Parkening, Sharon Isbin, Raphaella Smits, Edward Flower, and the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet. Current member of the Guitar Foundation of America, and performs frequently as a soloist and chamber musician. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2003.

Braunwin Sheldrick (violin, viola). Pursuing doctoral studies at the Eastman School of Music; Master of Music in String Pedagogy from Temple University (PA);Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance from McGill University (Montreal). Was awarded the Licentiate of the Royal Academy of Music (LRAM) and the Postgraduate Diploma from the Royal Academy of Music in London as well as Suzuki training from Ithaca College and Southwestern Ontario Suzuki Institute. Has served on faculties of the Temple University Preparatory Division, the Philadelphia School, the Haddonfield (NJ) School of Performing Arts, and the Junior Royal Academy of Music (London). Has performed with the Delaware Symphony, the Haddonfield Symphony, the London Sinfonietta, and the World Youth Chamber Orchestra. Member of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Martha Sholl (bassoon) (on leave 2007-2008). Master of Music in Performance and Literature and Bachelor of Music in Performance from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Arts in History from Penn State University. Faculty member at SUNY Geneseo, Roberts Wesleyan College, Nazareth College, and Syracuse University. Bassoonist with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and Syracuse Symphony. Has performed with the Buffalo Philharmonic, Chamber Music Rochester, Lake Placid Sinfonietta, Music in the Mountains Festival, and the Chautauqua Institution Orchestra, among others. Selected for Who's Who in America in 2004. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1999.

Rita George Simmons (flute). Master of Music degree from Ithaca College and Bachelor of Music degree from The Boston Conservatory. Has performed as soloist with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Boston Conservatory Symphony, and three times with the Hochstein Music Educator’s Wind Band where she has been piccoloist since 1991. Has twice been featured on Hochstein’s “Spotlight on Faculty” concert series and has been a featured performer on the “Arts and Lunch” series of the Downtown United Presbyterian Church. Maintains a private teaching studio and is a member of the National Flute Association through which she is a 2000 winner of the Convention Performer’s Competition. Has performed at national conventions in Columbus and Pittsburgh; has served on the board of directors of the Rochester Flute Association and was co-chair of the annual Flute Fair in 2004 and 2006. Currently the director of the RFA Flute Choir. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2001.

Diane Smith (flute, ensembles coordinator). Master and Bachelor of Music degrees from the Eastman School of Music. Founding member of Antara Winds, performs with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Rochester Oratorio Society, Opera Theatre of Rochester and Rochester Broadway Theatre League. Winner of the 1995 Hochstein Faculty Service Award and the 1996 Rochester Philharmonic League Fanfare Award for Education. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1976.

Jeremy Stoner (tuba, euphonium). Experience as teacher of low brass instruments and methods at Armstrong Atlantic State University, Georgia Southern University, Savannah Arts Academy Band Camp, and Northwestern University. Former member of Hilton Head Orchestra, Savannah Brass Quintet, ARTillery Punch, Savannah Symphony Orchestra, Stratton Mountain Boys. Currently a member of the Wilmot Brass Quintet and Plymouth Brass Quintet. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Craig Snyder (guitar, electric guitar, electric bass, ensembles, jazz studies). Bachelor of Arts in Music with a concentration in Jazz Guitar Studies through SUNY Empire, September 2006; Associate Degree in Music with High Honors from Finger Lakes Community College and a Berklee College of Music Scholarship recipient (1984). Adjunct music faculty member at Finger Lakes Community College where he teaches jazz guitar and bass. Extensive experience as instructor of guitar and bass, as well as a performer and producer. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002.

Casey Springstead
(ensembles). Master and Bachelor degrees in Music Education from the Eastman School of Music. Currently director of the Dake Junior High Wind Ensemble (West Irondequoit) and co-director of the Wind Ensemble at Irondequoit High School. Member of the horn section of the Penfield Symphony Orchestra and has performed with orchestras for the Kunde Chorale, The Opera Factory, and Mercury Opera. Active as a recitalist and has worked with the New Horizons Band, Irondequoit Concert Band, and teaches private horn students. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2003.

Sara Stoffel (music therapy). Bachelor of Science in Music Therapy; Bachleor of Fine Arts in Applied Piano; and Minor in Psychology from SUNY Fredonia. Professional member of American Music Therapy Association (AMTA). Completed music therapy internship at Hochstein and joined the Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Fred Stone (electric bass, string bass, jazz studies). Master of Music degree in Jazz History and Contemporary Media from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Music degree in Performance and Jazz History from the Berklee College of Music. Former faculty member of the Eastman School of Music, Berklee College and Genesee Community College. Performed with Stan Kenton/Four Freshman, Chet Baker, Mike Stearn, John Scofield, and Mark Elf among others and on tour with Peggy Lee, Tony Bennett, Buddy Rich, Eddie Daniels and jazz vocalist Mark Murphy. Stage performances with Joan Rivers, Sandler & Young, the Smothers Brothers, the Fifth Dimension, the Letterman, and the Inkspots among others. Author of two books and has released a recording, Scenario, on the Cadence Label. Principal bassist and featured soloist for Brighton Symphony Orchestra and performs with Diane Armesto Group at the Little Theatre Cafe. Classical bass studies with J.B. VanDemark and Bill Curtis, jazz bass studies with Slam Stewart, Major Holley, Ray Brown, among others and jazz composition study with Russ Ferrante of "The Yellowjackets", Jerry Bergonzi and Bill Dobbins. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2003.

Brian S. Story (Finger Lakes Concert Band). Master of Music and Bachelor in Music Education degrees from Mansfield University (PA). Current director of the 7th and 8th Grade Bands at the Canandaigua Middle School. Active as composer, performer, instrumentalist, and vocalist. He has over fifty published marching band and concert band compositions and arrangements. He sings bass with Madrigalia and Musica Spei. Member of the New York State School Music Association and the New York State Band Director's Association. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Nancy Strelau (conducting, composition, ensembles). Graduate of Syracuse University and University of Miami. Has performed as a violinist with the Florida Philharmonic and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Former orchestra director at Penfield High School and the Finger Lakes Symphony, Conductor of the Greater Rochester Women's Philharmonic, Hochstein Youth Symphony Orchestra, Virtuosi Scholarship Chamber Orchestra and guest conductor for All-State and All-County orchestras throughout the U.S. Nazareth College Director of Orchestras, Audition Coordinator, and Instrumental Coordinator. Orchestral and choral works published with Warner Brothers, Southern Music. Winner of the Hochstein Faculty Service Award in 2001. Joined Hochstein Faculty in 1992.

Munenori Sugitani (voice) . Currently completing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Vocal Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music where he teaches voice lessons; Master of Music Vocal Performance degree from the University of Arizona; Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance from the University of the Pacific (CA). Has been a finalist in a number of competitions and was the 2001 winner of the Eastman Concerto Competition. Has performed with Eastman Opera Theatre and Rochester Opera Factory, and gave a summer 2004 solo recital in Tokyo, Japan. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Patricia Sunwoo (chamber ensembles). Doctoral degree from the Juilliard School. Has performed extensively with the Whitman String Quartet recording, touring, and collaborating with numerous composers. She performed frequently with New York City's new music ensembles Sequitur, Continuum, and Da Capo Players. Currently performs with Bard Festival String Quartet, Finger Lakes Chamber Ensemble and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Faculty member at Binghamton University. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Jim Tiller (ensembles). Master of Music degree and Performer's Certificate from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Education and Performer's Certificate from the University of South Carolina. Has performed extensively throughout the U.S., Europe and Japan, and since 1995 has performed with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra where he is Principal Percussion/Assistant Timpani. Active as a soloist and chamber musician at such venues as Percussive Arts Society, Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival, Spoleto Festival and others.. Faculty member at SUNY Geneseo and Houghton College. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002.

Allyn Van Dusen (voice). Master's degree and Performer's Certificate from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor's degree from Boston University. Appeared as mezzo soloist with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Rochester Oratorio Society and the Boston Symphony. Won Audience Prize in CyberSing 2002, a global Internet art song competition. Has performed roles in opera and musical theatre, creating roles in several world premiere operas. Active recitalist and recording artist with two solo CD's produced for SongBurst Records and contemporary works for Albany Records. Longtime church soloist, member of Madrigalia chamber choir, and cofounder of the Rochester Vocal Arts Collaborative in 2001. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1992.

Henning Vauth (piano). DMA candidate at Eastman School of Music. Diplomas from the Hochschule fur Musik und Theater in Hannover, Germany and the Ecole Normale de Musique "Alfred Cortot" in Paris, France. Master of Music in Piano Performance from Western Michigan University. Teaching experience includes classroom assistance, faculty experience and private studio instruction. Mr. Vauth continues an active performance schedule, having been an international semifinalist in the Concourse Grieg International and Ibla Grand Prize Competitions. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Jeffrey Weeks (bass). Master of Music degree in Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music where he was awarded a fellowship and received an Orchestral Studies Diploma in conjunction with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Bachelor of Music in double bass from Ohio State University. Former faculty member of Jefferson Academy of Music and the Pre-College Strings Division of Ohio State University. Plays with the Binghamton Philharmonic. Has performed extensively as a freelance artist with numerous orchestras and chamber orchestras. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Joseph Werner (piano, ensembles). Master's and Bachelor's degrees from the Eastman School of Music. Principal pianist and Personnel Manager for the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, with whom he has served as featured soloist on over a dozen concerti. Has recorded on the Columbia, Vanguard, NEXUS, and Musical Heritage Society labels, and has toured Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Russia under the auspices of the United States Information Agency. Recipient of the Hochstein Faculty Service Award, in 1990. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1978.

Katherine Wheeler (dance). Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Columbus College of Art and Design. Previous teaching experience at The Movement Center School in Ohio. Has performed with the Brianski Ballet Company (Saratoga, New York) and the North Carolina Dance Theatre. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

John Wiesenthal (guitar, ensembles). Degrees from SUNY Stony Brook and the University of Oregon School of Music. Received Orff Schulwerk Certification from the Eastman School of Music. Developed guitar programs at Hochstein for young children, and is founder and past president of the Guitar Society of Rochester. Has appeared regularly with the Musica Nova ensemble of the Eastman School of Music and on the "Live from Hochstein" series. Received Hochstein's Faculty Service Award in 1999. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1980.

Colleen Wolf (horn). Master of Music in horn performance from the University of Michigan. Bachelor of Music in horn performance and the Performer's Certificate from the Eastman School of Music. Performs with Twenty21 and founding member of the Plymouth Brass Quintet. Actively freelances with Rochester Oratorio Society, Mercury Opera Rochester, Kunde Chorale, and the Greater Rochester Women's Philharmonic.
Professional affiliations include the Morning Musicale, the Fairport Musicale, and the International Horn Society.
Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Grace Wong (harp). Graduate of Oberlin Conservatory with further studies at the Manhattan School of Music. Principal harpist with Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Won second prize at the Fifth International Harp Contest in Israel and made her Carnegie Hall debut in 1974. Has served as jury member for the International Harp Contest, American String Teachers Association National Solo Competition, and as a board member of the American Harp Society. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1992.

Katie Worley (violin, ensembles). Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from the Eastman School of Music. Former member of the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra. Received Suzuki teacher training at the Ithaca Suzuki Institute, the Suzuki Institute of the Paulouse in Pullman (WA) and the Southern Ontario Suzuki Institute. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2000.

Olexsandra Yurchenko (piano). Graduated from Lysenko Music Conservatory of Lviv in the Ukraine with a concentration on piano accompaniment and where she was an Assistant Professor of Music Accompaniment. Has participated in numerous competitions and is very active as a collaborative pianist in the Ukraine, Poland, and the United States. Maintains a private studio in Rochester, works as the church musician for St. Rita's Church, and UCC Church in Webster. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Wenqing Zhang (piano). Pursuing Doctor of Music Degree in Piano at Eastman School of Music, where she earned her Master's and Bachelor's degrees; additional studies at the Beijing Central Conservatory of Music. Winner of International Young Artists Competition, Tianjin Conservatory's Children's Piano Competition and Eastman Piano Concerto Competition. Recorded for International Central Broadcasting in China. Concert and recital soloist at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., Tquingdao Symphony Orchestra, Tianjin Symphony Orchestra, and Academie Internationale du Moulin d'Ande. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2003.

Nika Zlataric (cello, ensembles)(on leave 2008). Pursuing Master of Arts in Theory Pedagogy at the Eastman School of Music where she earned her Master of Music degree in Cello Performance and Literature; Bachelor of Music in Cello Performance from Oberlin College Conservatory of Music, and Undergraduate Diploma as Violoncellist and Violoncello Teacher from University of Zagreb, Academy of Music (Croatia). Cello faculty member of the Governor's School of North Carolina (Winston-Salem), and Theory Teaching Assistant at the Eastman School where she has also been a guest instructor in both Music History and Music Theory. Has performed with a variety of regional orchestras and early music ensembles, and is the recipient of the Graduate Award, the Edith Babcock Scholarship and the McLaughlin Scholarship from the Eastman School of Music. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.
 

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