C AL STAT E FULLER TON
C S U F S C H O O L O F M US IC
RONALD S. ROCHON President, California State University, Fullerton
DR. RANDALL GOLDBERG Director, School of Music
SEAN E. WALKER Provost and VP for Academic Affairs
KIMO FURUMOTO Assistant Director, School of Music
ARNOLD HOLLAND, EDD Dean, College of the Arts
BONGSHIN KO Assistant Director, School of Music
SCHOOL O F M U S I C F U L L-TI M E FAC U LT Y A N D S TA F F FACULT Y CONDUCTING Kimo Furumoto instrumental Dr. Robert Istad choral Dr. Christopher Peterson choral Dr. Dustin Barr instrumental JAZZ AND COMMERCIAL MUSIC Bill Cunliffe jazz piano; arranging; Fullerton Jazz Orchestra, Fullerton Big Band and combo director Rodolfo Zuñiga* jazz studies, jazz percussion, and music techology; Fullerton Chamber Jazz Ensemble director PIANO, ORGAN, PIANO PEDAGOGY Bill Cunliffe jazz piano Alison Edwards* piano, piano pedagogy, class piano Dr. Robert Watson piano MUSIC EDUCATION, TEACHER TRAINING, AND TEACHING CREDENTIAL Dr. Christopher Peterson choral Dr. Gregory X. Whitmore* instrumental Dr. Bri’Ann Wright general education MUSIC IN GENERAL EDUCATION Dr. John Koegel* Dr. Katherine Reed MUSIC HISTORY AND LITERATURE Dr. Vivianne Asturizaga musicology Dr. John Koegel* musicology Dr. Katherine Reed musicology
STRINGS Kimo Furumoto Director of Orchestra Studies and University Symphony Orchestra conductor Bongshin Ko cello Dr. Ernest Salem* violin THEORY AND COMPOSITION Dr. Hesam Abedini composition, theory Dr. Pamela Madsen composition, theory Dr. Ken Walicki* composition, theory VOCAL, CHORAL, AND OPERA Dr. Robert Istad* Director of Choral Studies and University Singers conductor Dr. Kerry Jennings* Director of Opera Dr. Christopher Peterson CSUF Concert Choir and Singing Titans conductor Dr. Joni Y. Prado* voice, academic voice courses WOODWINDS, BRASS, AND PERCUSSION Dr. Dustin Barr Director of Wind Band Studies, University Wind Symphony, University Band Jean Ferrandis* flute Sycil Mathai* trumpet Ken McGrath* percussion Dr. Gregory X. Whitmore University Symphonic Winds conductor Michael Yoshimi* clarinet S TA F F Michael August Production Manager Charlotte Bouck Audition Coordinator, Asst. Production Manager Eric Dries Music Librarian Gretchen Estes-Parker Office Coordinator Jeff Lewis Audio Engineer Chris Searight Musical Instrument Services Paul Shirts Administrative Assistant Elizabeth Williams Business Manager
* Denotes area coordinator
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Every work of art begins with something deeply felt: an idea worth pursuing, a question that begs exploration, a story or sound or image that asks to be brought into the world. But making the work is only part of the experience. Art also asks to be seen, heard, and shared. From the moment the semester begins, our students pour every bit of themselves into their work. Then after hours of practice, days of preparation, and months of refinement, the audience becomes a privileged participant in a powerful, shared moment. It can happen in a gallery or on a stage. Sometimes it strikes when a choir’s transcendent harmonies send shivers up your spine. Or when you lose yourself inside the details of a photograph or are transported to another time and place inside a darkened theatre. These are the moments when we stop watching and start seeing. If you have experienced moments like these, support the artists that make them possible by donating to the Dean’s Fund for Excellence. Your generosity will help to ensure students have access to meaningful on- and off-campus opportunities including artist’s residencies, masterclasses, conferences, and intensives that empower their creativity. Shape the future of the arts today. Consider a gift of any amount to the Dean’s Fund for Excellence. Thank you for joining us for the College of the Arts’ Fall Events Season. There is so much to explore. From new artistic perspectives and compelling stories to bold visions and timeless favorites. Let’s discover where this season takes us, together! Be Well, Arnold Holland, Ed.D Douglas G. Stewart, Dean of the College of the Arts
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FALL 2026 HIGHLIGHTS COTA GALLERIES
MUSIC
THEATRE AND DANCE
Opens 9/26/26: Tom LaDuke: “slowly, the song goes”
10/3: University Symphony Orchestra: “Visions of Grandeur” 10/10: University Symphonic Winds: “Soundscapes” 11/15: Fullerton Pops Presents “Mainly Mancini” 11/17: Mariachi Titans, with CSUF Ballet Folklorico
10/16–24: “The Madwoman of Chaillot” 10/8–17: “A Monster Calls” 10/22–31: “In the Heights” 12/3–12: Fall Dance Theatre: “Rise Together”
Opens 9/21: Patrick Merrill: “Prints from the Permanent Collection, 2004–2009” Plus rotating student exhibitions throughout the semester.
PROGRAM
Concert Choir Christopher Peterson, conductor David Bergstedt, collaborative pianist Michael Ortiz, graduate assistant conductor Let All the World in Every Corner Sing (1911)............ Ralph Vaughan Williams (Antiphon from Five Mystical Songs) (1872-1958) arr. Dale Wood Abendlied, op. 69, no. 3.......................................... Josef Gabriel Rheinberger (1839–1901) Jubilate Deo................................................................................. Peter Anglea (b. 1988) Father Thunder...................................................................... Laura Jēkabsone (b. 1985) Peze Kafé...............................................................................arr. Sten Källman (b. 1952)
Percussionists: Raymond Arroyo, Gracie Finley, Isaiah Mawien, Christopher Peterson, Edgar Sanchez, Vea Stone Michael Ortiz, graduate assistant conductor
All Beautiful You Are.......................................................... Michael John Trotta (b. 1978)
Zoe Wolfsen soloist
Sweet Rivers........................................................................... Shawn Kirchner (b. 1970)
***** Intermission *****
PROGRAM
University Singers Robert Istad, conductor David Bergstedt, collaborative pianist Steven McCann, graduate assistant conductor Jubilate Deo................................................................................ Motshwane Pege (b. 1998)
Soloists: Em Nguyen, Adam Rooney, and Abby Tyree
Suave.................................................................................................Jeffrey Ortega arr. Jake Runestad
Soloist: Alan Garcia Guitar: Kate Bowles 1000 Beautiful Things........................................................................ Annie Lennox (b. 1954) arr. Craig Hella Johnson
Soloist: Krysta Tillett, mezzo-soprano Percussionist: Lance Azusada, Jeremy Lee, Michael Ortiz, Sara Preston, Adam Rooney
Hallelujah (from Revelation).............................................................. Patrick Hawes (b. 1958)
Steven McCann, graduate assistant conductor
Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied, BWV 225..................... Johann Sebastian Bach I. Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied (1685-1750) III. Lobet den Herrn in seinen Taten
PROGRAM NOTES Let all the World in Every Corner Sing (1911) (Antiphone from Five Mystical Songs) RALPH VAUGHAN WILLIAMS, ARR. DALE WOOD
The Church with psalms must shout; No door can keep them out; But above all, the heart Must bear the longest part.
Let all the World in Every Corner Sing, also known as Antiphon, is the fifth and final movement of Vaughn William’s Five Mystical Songs. Set to a poem by seventeenth-century English poet George Herbert, the piece celebrates the power of praise and the importance of expressing faith through both the resilience of the human spirit and faith through music. Its energetic rhythms and majestic character bring the larger work to a triumphant conclusion. While it serves as the final movement, Antiphon is also frequently performed as an independent choral anthem. Ralph Vaughan Williams, an English composer, was one of the leading figures in twentieth-century British music. Vaughan Williams' love for English folk songs, Tudor music, and traditional hymnody influenced his writings and helped develop a distinctive musical style that helped shape and transform English classical music. His compositions include nine symphonies, operas, orchestral works, and extensive collections of choral music. Throughout Vaughan Williams career, he believed that music should be accessible to everyone, composing works for both professional and amateur musicians alike.
Text from Luke 24:29
Text by George Herbert
Let all the world in ev'ry corner sing, My God and King. The heav'ns are not too high, His praise may thither fly; The earth is not too low, His praises there may grow.
Abendlied, op. 69, no. 3 JOSEF GABRIEL RHEINBERGER Abendlied (“Evening Song”) is one of Rheinberger’s best-known sacred choral works. The first version of this piece was composed in 1855 when he was only fifteen years old. He later revised it before its publication as the third of his Drei geistliche Gesänge, op. 69. Written for six-part mixed choir (SAATTB) and traditionally performed a cappella, the motet sets words from Luke 24:29, in which the disciples ask Christ to remain with them as evening approaches. Rheinberger’s warm harmonies, flowing counterpoint, and repeated plea of “Bleib bei uns” (“Stay with us”) give the work a peaceful yet deeply expressive sense of longing and comfort. Josef Gabriel Rheinberger was a Liechtenstein-born composer, organist, and teacher who spent most of his professional life in Munich. A prominent figure of the late Romantic period, he was especially respected for his sacred choral and organ music. His style combines the rich harmony of nineteenth-century Romanticism with contrapuntal techniques inspired by earlier sacred traditions, particularly Renaissance and Baroque music. Rheinberger was also an influential teacher whose students included composers and musicians across Europe and the United States. Blieb' bei uns, denn es will Abend warden; Und der Tag hat sich geneiget, sich geneiget O bleib’ bei uns, denn es will Abend warden
PROGRAM NOTES Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over. So he went in to stay with them.
Jubilate Deo PETER ANGLEA
Text from Psalms 1, 2, 5 Peter Anglea’s Jubilate Deo is a joyful setting of the Latin text from Psalm 100, calling all people to praise and serve God with gladness. Written for choir and piano, the piece is driven by an energetic 10/8 meter and frequently shifts among meters including 6/8, 4/4. Anglea describes the work as a modified rondo, with its recurring 10/8 theme providing unity while layered rhythms continually build excitement. The result is a bright, exuberant celebration of the Psalm’s message: “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord.” Peter Anglea is an American composer whose music is especially known in the greater-choral community. He earned a master’s degree in composition from Bob Jones University, where his composition teachers included Dan Forrest and Joan Pinkston. His works include sacred and secular choral music, such as Jubilate Deo, Sicut Cervus, and Non Nobis. His writing often combines accessible melodies with rhythmic energy and colorful contemporary harmonies. Jubilate Deo, omnis terra. Servite Domino in laetitia; introite in conspectu eius in exsultatione. Quoniam suavis est Dominus; in aeternum misericordia eius, et usque in generationem et generationem veritas eius. Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness; come before his presence with singing. For the Lord is good;
his mercy is everlasting, and his truth endureth to all generations.
Father Thunder LAURA JĒKABSONE Father Thunder is an energetic choral work rooted in Latvian mythology and folk tradition. The title refers to Pērkons, the Latvian god of thunder, a powerful figure associated with thunder, lighting, rain, fertility, and the forces of nature. Jēkabsone uses driving rhythms, dramatic contrast, and percussive vocal effects to evoke the overwhelming sound and energy of a thunderstorm. Rather than functioning as a conventional sacred prayer, the piece draws upon Latvia’s pre-Christian folkloric imagery, transforming the power of thunder and nature into an intense contemporary choral experience. Laura Jēkabsone is a Latvian composer, singer, arranger, and conductor known for her work in contemporary vocal and choral music. She is a founding member of the Latvain vocal group Latvain Voices, for which she has served as artistic director and arranger. A graduate of the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music, Jēkabsone has written music performed by ensembles including the State Choir LATVIJA, Latvian National Symphony Orchestra, The Real Group, Sjaella, and Amarcord. Pērkona tēvam deviņi deli. Trīs spēra, trīs rūca, trīs zibināja Pērkons spēra ozolā, deviņiem zibeņiem Trīs zibeņi celmu skalda, seši skalda galotnīti Father Thunder has nine sons : Three strike, three rumble, three flash lightning. Thunder had nine lightning bolts, With the bolts he struck the oak. Three bolt axes chopped the stump, Six lightning flashes split the top.
PROGRAM NOTES Peze Kafé ARR. STEN KÄLLMAN
All the Beautiful You Are MICHAEL JOHN TROTTA
Peze Kafé is a traditional Haitian folk song arranged by Sten Källman. The song is sung in Haitian Creole that tells of a young boy sent by his mother to bring coffee from the market, only to be stopped and arrested by a policeman. He anxiously wonders what he will tell his family when he returns home. Källman's arrangement emphasizes the song’s strong rhythmic character through syncopation, vocal percussion, repeated musical patterns, and percussion ensemble, creating a lively musical arrangement. Sten Källman is a Swedish musician and arranger whose work has included extensive engagement with Haitian music. His arrangements have helped bring traditional Haitian repertoire into the choral setting, particularly through his work with Swedish vocal ensemble “Amanda.” His approach often preserves the rhythmic character of the source material while adapting it for mixed choir and percussion.
All the Beautiful You Are is an accompanied choral work by composer Michael John Trotta whose title comes from Song of Songs 4:7, a biblical passage celebrating the beauty of the beloved: “All the beautiful you are, my darling; there is no flaw in you.” The text and expressive musical setting center on these themes of love, beauty, and complete acceptance of another, giving the piece an intimate and affirming character. Michael John Trotta is an American composer and conductor whose work centers largely on choral music. His background includes experience as a music educator, church music director, and conductor at the primary, secondary, and university levels. He holds degrees in music education as well as a doctorate in choral conducting, and his compositions combine traditional choral techniques with contemporary harmonies and an emphasis on expressive, singable vocal writing.
Maman m voye m peze kafé O an arivan mwen sou potay Men youn jandam arête m Woy sa ma di lakay lè m arrive mezanmi Sa ma di lakay lè m arrive Maman m voye m sou potay Pou m ale peze kafé
I saw her as beautiful as a dove rising above water, Her heavenly fragrance flowing from her robes. Surrounded by flowers of roses and lilies of the valley. Fresh as spring time, a well of water outpoured. All beautiful you are my darling There is no flaw in you. You have stolen my heart. With one glance of your eyes you have stolen my heart. With one look. Who is she that rises from wilderness? Like a pillar of smoke scented with All the sweetest bouquets, Your love is so delightful better than any wine Your scent more fragrant than any perfume.
My mother sent me to weigh the coffee When I reached the road I was Ambushed by the police What am I going to say at home When I get back, Oh Friends! What am I going to say at home?1 My mother sent me to the gate Go weigh my coffee.
PROGRAM NOTES Sweet Rivers SHAWN KIRCHNER Sweet Rivers pairs an old American hymn text with an original melody by composer Shawn Kirchner, creating what Kirchner describes as a newly created “traditional song.” The text looks toward death not with fear, but with hope, imagining the crossing of the Jordan River and the promise of rest and redemption beyond earthly suffering. Kirchner sets these ideas with an energetic, folk-inspired piano accompaniment and increasingly-layered vocal writing, building toward the joyful final statement of the text “sweet rivers of redeeming love lie just before mine eyes.” Shawn Kirchner is an American composer, arranger, songwriter, pianist, and singer based in Los Angeles. His music often bridges classical choral writing with American folk, hymn, gospel, and other vernacular traditions. Kirchner served as Swan Family Composer in Residence with the Los Angeles Master Choral from 2012-2015 and has performed with the ensemble for many years as a tenor. His choral music is performed nationally and internationally, and he is particularly known for works that draw upon folk and hymn traditions.
Jubilate Deo (2026) MOTSHWANE PEGE
Latin text from Psalm 100:1-2 Jubilate Deo is a joyful and energetic setting of the opening verses of Psalm 100, calling all people to praise God with gladness and celebration. Written for an eight-part unaccompanied choir with body percussion, the piece features driving rhythms, syncopation, changing meters, and vibrant harmonies that create a strong sense of excitement. Pege moves between powerful, rhythmically intense passages and more delicate choral textures, highlighting the expressive possibilities of the human voice. The work received first prize in the New Dub-
lin Voices 20th Anniversary Composition Competition and is an excellent example of contemporary choral music that combines traditional sacred text with fresh and imaginative musical writing. Motshwane Pege is a South African composer, percussionist, and music educator whose compositions have gained international recognition for their rhythmic energy, rich harmonies, and colorful choral textures. His works have received awards in several international competitions, including the New Dublin Voices Composition Competition and the Busan Choral Festival. In addition to composing, Pege teaches orchestral percussion and works with African marimba ensembles, incorporating his experience with rhythm and instrumental music into his distinctive compositional style. Jubilate Deo, omnis terra; Servite Domino in laetitia. Intrate in conspectu eius in exsultatione. Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; Serve the Lord with gladness. Come before him with joyful song.
Suave (2026) WORDS AND MUSIC JEFFREY ORTEGA ARR. JAKE RUNESTAD Suave, meaning “soft” or “gentle” in Spanish, explores the idea that softness and vulnerability can be sources of strength rather than weakness. Originally written and performed by Jeffrey Ortega as a song for voice and guitar, the work was arranged for SATB choir by Jake Runestad in 2026 for Vocalis Guatemala. Inspired by Ortega’s sensitive performance style, Runestad preserves the intimacy of the original song while expanding its expressive possibilities through warm harmonies and delicate choral textures. The text speaks about the quiet strength of one’s voice and the importance of being heard without having to force oneself to be louder.
PROGRAM NOTES Through its gentle musical character, Suave reminds listeners that even the softest voices can carry deep meaning and emotional power. Jeffrey Ortega is a Guatemalan singer-songwriter, composer, conductor, and dancer who serves as the artistic director and conductor of Vocalis, a community-based choral organization in Guatemala. His music brings together expressive melodies, intimate lyrics, and rich harmonic writing. Jake Runestad is an award-winning American composer and conductor whose works are performed by choirs throughout the world. Known for his emotionally powerful and expressive choral music, Runestad has received numerous honors, including an Emmy Award and Grammy nominations. His compositions frequently explore themes of human connection, compassion, and the power of music to bring people together. Dicen que mi voz es algo suave, que no alcanzarí la distancia. Yo creo que no necesito fuerza. [En la suavidad hay tanta fuerza.] Suave, suave, suave, cuando tú te acercas. [cuando tú me besas.] Suave, suave, suave, me escuchas tú. They say there is a softness to my voice, that it may never carry far enough. I don’t think I need to force it. [In softness there is such power.] Softly, softly, softly, when you come close. [when you kiss me.] Softly, softly, softly, you can hear me.
1000 Beautiful Things (2003) WORDS AND MUSIC ANNIE LENNOX ARR. CRAIG HELLA JOHNSON Originally released on Annie Lennox’s 2003 album Bare, 1000 Beautiful Things is a reflective song about finding
hope, beauty, and gratitude even during life’s most difficult moments. The text follows a journey from sadness and uncertainty toward renewed appreciation for the world and the small moments that make life meaningful. Craig Hella Johnson’s choral arrangement brings a new dimension to Lennox’s original song through an expressive solo voice supported by rich choral harmonies and percussion. The arrangement allows the personal message of the song to become a shared experience, as the choir surrounds and supports the soloist. Ultimately, 1000 Beautiful Things reminds us that beauty can still be found in the world, even when we are facing struggles or challenges. Annie Lennox is a Scottish singer-songwriter and activist best known as one half of the influential pop duo Eurythmics, alongside Dave Stewart. Throughout her career, Lennox has been celebrated for her distinctive voice, expressive songwriting, and ability to explore themes of love, loss, resilience, and self-discovery. Craig Hella Johnson is an American conductor, composer, and arranger who founded the Grammy Award-winning professional choral ensemble Conspirare, based in Austin, Texas. Known for his thoughtful programming and expressive arrangements, Johnson frequently brings music from different genres into the choral tradition, creating meaningful connections between performers and audiences. Ev’ry day I write the list of reasons why I still believe they do exist: (a thousand beautiful things.) And even though it’s hard to see the glass is full and not half empty: (a thousand beautiful things.) So light me up like the sun, to cool me down with your rain. I never want to close my eyes again, never close my eyes, never close my eyes.
PROGRAM NOTES I thank you for the air to breathe, the heart to beat, the eyes to see again: (a thousand beautiful things.) And all the things that’s been and done, the battle’s won, the good and bad in ev’ry one: So here I go again, singin’ by your window, pickin’ up the pieces of what’s left to find. The world was meant for you and me to figure out our destiny: (a thousand beautiful things.) To live, to die, to breathe, to sleep, To try to make your life complete. Light me up like the sun, to cool down with your rain. I never want to close my eyes again, never close my eyes, never close my eyes! That is ev’rything I have to say….
Hallelujah (from Revelation (2017)) PATRICK HAWES Text from Revelation 19:6-7
Hallelujah is the seventh movement of Patrick Hawes’ nine-movement choral work Revelation, published in 2017 and based on texts from the biblical Book of Revelation. Drawing from Revelation 19:6–7, the piece celebrates the reign of God and calls upon all people to rejoice and give praise. Written for double choir, Hawes uses energetic fanfare-like rhythms, powerful harmonies, and exciting exchanges between the two choirs to create an atmosphere of celebration and majesty. The contrasting musical textures allow the voices to respond to one another, gradually building intensity toward a triumphant conclusion. As one of the climactic moments of the larger work, Hallelujah captures the excitement and overwhelming joy of the biblical text. Patrick Hawes is a contemporary British composer known for his beautiful melodies, rich harmonies, and expressive sacred choral music. Born in Grimsby, England, Hawes studied music
at Durham University and worked as a music educator before pursuing composition full-time. His compositions often draw inspiration from religious texts, English landscapes, and the traditions of British choral music. In 2006, he was appointed Composer in Residence for Classic FM, bringing his music to a wider international audience. His works have been performed by prominent ensembles throughout the world and are admired for their combination of traditional musical beauty and contemporary harmonic language. Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory! For the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied, BWV 225, Movements I and III (1726-1727)
JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH
Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied (Sing to the Lord a New Song), BWV 225, is one of Bach’s most celebrated motets, composed around 1726–1727 during his time in Leipzig. Written for two four-part choirs, the motet demonstrates Bach’s remarkable ability to combine complex counterpoint with joyful musical expression. The first movement, based on Psalm 149, calls upon the faithful to sing, dance, and celebrate God’s greatness. Bach creates an energetic musical dialogue between the two choirs, using lively rhythms, imitation, and intricate melodic lines to reflect the excitement of the text. The third movement, based on Psalm 150, continues this celebration through powerful declarations of praise, eventually leading into an exuberant fugue on “Alles, was Odem hat” (Let everything that has breath praise the Lord). Together, these two movements highlight the brilliance of Bach’s double-choir writing
PROGRAM NOTES and the spirit of joy and thanksgiving found throughout the work. Johann Sebastian Bach was a German composer and organist of the Baroque period and is widely regarded as one of the greatest composers in Western music history. Born into a family of musicians in Eisenach, Germany, Bach spent much of his career composing and performing sacred music for the Lutheran Church. In 1723, he became Thomaskantor in Leipzig, where he was responsible for directing church music and educating young musicians. His compositions include cantatas, passions, keyboard works, and motets, all demonstrating his extraordinary command of counterpoint, harmony, and musical structure. Although his music was admired during his lifetime, his reputation grew considerably after his death, and his works continue to influence composers and performers today. Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied, Die Gemeine der Heiligen sollen ihn loben. Israel freue sich des, der ihn gemacht hat.
Die Kinder Zion sei’n frӧhlich über ihrem Kӧnige, Sie sollen loben seinen Namen im Reigen; mit Pauken und mit Harfen sollen sie ihm spielen. Sing to the Lord a new song, The congregation of the saints shall praise Him. Let Israel rejoice in the One who made them, And the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise His name in dance; With drum and harp let them make music unto Him. Lobet den Herrn in seinen Taten Lobet den Herrn in seinen Taten, lobet ihn in seiner groẞen Herrlichkeit! Alles, was Odem hat, lobe den Herrn. Halleluja! Praise the Lord for His mighty deeds, praise Him for His great splendor! Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Hallelujah!
CONCERT CHOIR Soprano 1
Alto 1
Tenor 1
Baritone
Soprano 2
Alto 2
Tenor 2
Bass
Melissa Alvarado Eden Kyla Castro Caitlyn Leners Tabetha Mora* Sarah Raber Nicole Rodriguez Mika Obadja Zoe Wolfsen Inaya Zaki
Hope Allan Rachel Delmastro Noelle Doan Kaitlyn Gooding Anna Grozdanov* Madison Jones Alina Palomares Kelsey Rhebergen Yesenia Vasquez
Carisa Espinosa Madeleine Evans Digna Garcia Trinity Hier Chloe Konoske Kady Lin Jessica Orozco Brianna Perez Aubrey Rhoades*
Lucille Andrada Grace Finley Ellen Kim Milena Leonis Daniel Ostrom* Isabella Sandoval Reagan Slomback Vea Stone Soft Washburn
Jae Corpuz Colin Eaton Michael Eskovitz Mathew Garcia Gavin Mitchell Gilbert Ortiz Justin Parron Edgar Sanchez Lissandra Tong
Peter Alunan Raymond Arroyo* Juan De Leon Jacob Ellis* Hector Esteva Deep Goswami Steve Moreno Tung Tran Santiago Zumaya
Brennan Bastanchury* Alex Galvan* Jacob Gomez Isaiah Mawien Joshua Perez Cristian Polo Sam Rankin Jackson Rickard Robert Rodriguez Trent Bauldry Virgil Daniels Kro DeAndrade Jack Kendig Michael Ortiz Jason Salcido Jaiden Shin Chris Sun
UNIVERSIT Y SINGERS Soprano
Amileah Barragan Kate Bowles Amber Napoli* Em Nguyen Sara Preston Rey Riney Peyton Slaven Quintessa Wedell
Alto
Georgina Hernandez Lindsey Lacanilao Hillary Ngo* Katelyn Pacpaco Krysta Tillett Veronica Torres Diaz Abby Tyree Jordan Watkins
Tenor
Alan Garcia Jeremy Lee Steven McCann* Jack Nisbet Nicholas Quinn Abraham Robles Adam Rooney Luke Schaumann
Bass
Tyler Alessi Lance Azusada Justin Gabriel CJ Koehn Cooper Koerner Michael Ortiz* Ben Reyes Miles Rojo
* Section Leaders
ABOUT THE CONDUCTORS
Robert Istad Robert Istad, a Grammy Award-winning conductor who “fashions fluent and sumptuous readings” (Voice of OC) with his “phenomenal” artistry (Los Angeles Times), is Professor, Director of Choral Studies at California State University, Fullerton and Artistic Director of Pacific Chorale. He was recognized as CSUF’s 2016 Outstanding Professor of the Year. At CSU Fullerton, he conducts the University Singers and manages CSUF’s large graduate choral conducting program. Recently, he and the University Singers performed with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Pacific Symphony Orchestra, Andrea Bocelli, Jennifer Hudson, Kathleen Battle, the Eagles, and recorded albums with Yarlung Records and with composer John Williams and Sony Classical. Under his leadership, Pacific Chorale continues to expand its reputation for excellence for delivering fresh, thought-provoking interpretations of beloved masterworks, rarely performed gems and newly commissioned pieces. Istad’s newest project, the inventive choral-theatrical concert film “To the Hands,” premiered as an official selection of the 2025 Newport Beach Film Festival, has garnered multiple awards and screenings, receiving its commercial release in August 2026. In July 2023, he led Pacific Chorale’s first international tour in seven years, conducting performances at leading venues in Austria, Germany and the United Kingdom. His artistic impact can be heard on three recent recordings featuring Pacific Chorale, including the 2022 Grammy Award-winning “Mahler’s Eighth Symphony” with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Gustavo Dudamel on Deutsche Grammophon (2021), for which he prepared the chorus. It won Best Choral Performance and garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Engineered Album, Classical. Additionally, Istad prepared Pacific Chorale for Pacific Symphony’s commercial recording of Sir James MacMillan’s “Fiat Lux” released on Tonsehen Records (2024) and conducted the Pacific Chorale’s recording “All Things Common: The Music of Tarik O’Regan” released on Yarlung Records (2020). He regularly conducts and collaborates with Pacific Symphony, Berkshire Choral International, and Yarlung Records. His extensive credits also include recording for Sony Classical and guest conducting Long Beach Symphony Orchestra, Bach Collegium San Diego, Musica Angelica Baroque Orchestra, Bath Philharmonia, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Tesserae Baroque, and Freies Landesorchester Bayern. Istad has prepared choruses for such renowned conductors as Gustavo Dudamel, Alexander Shelley, Carl St.Clair, Esa-Pekka Salonen, John Williams, John Mauceri, Keith Lockhart, Nicholas McGegan, Vasilly Sinaisky, Sir Andrew Davis, Bramwell Tovey, Carl St.Clair, Eugene Kohn, Giancarlo Guerrero, Marin Alsop, George Fenton, and Robert Moody. Istad and the University Singers travel throughout the world and have presented concert tours of Rwanda & South Africa (2024), Australia (2022), Spain (2019), and Scandinavia, the Baltics and Russia (2017). They have performed at numerous regional and national ACDA conferences including the 2024, 2018, and 2012 ACDA Western Division Conferences and the 2025 and 2013 ACDA National Conferences. They also performed for the 2013 and 2025 National Collegiate Choral Organization National Conferences. Other highlights include a 2015 residency and performances in
ABOUT THE CONDUCTORS Paris, France, engagements at the 2012 Ottobeuren and Eingen Festivals of Music in Germany, a 2010 performance for UNESCO in Pisa, Italy, and a 2008 performance at the Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest, Hungary. Istad received his Bachelor of Arts degree in music from Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, his Master of Music degree in choral conducting from California State University, Fullerton and his Doctor of Musical Arts degree in choral music at the University of Southern California. He studied conducting with Dr. William Dehning, John Alexander and Dr. Jon Hurty. Istad, who is on the Executive Board of Directors of Chorus America and serves as Dean of Chorus America’s Conducting Academy, is in demand as guest conductor, lecturer, and clinician.
Christopher Peterson Christopher Peterson is a teacher, conductor, choral clinician, author, editor, and choral arranger of music and books published in the United States and around the world. In his over thirty years as a music educator he has taught in elementary, middle school, high school, church, community, festival, and collegiate settings. He earned the Bachelor of Science in Music Education from the University of Southern Maine in choral and instrumental music education and taught mwusic for nine years in the public schools of Maine. He earned the Master of Music in Choral Conducting degree at the University of Maine, and the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education and Choral Conducting at Florida State University. At CSUF Peterson trains and mentors undergraduate and graduate choral music educators and conductors and directs the Concert Choir and the Singing Titans Chorus. In May of 2019 he was honored as the University-wide recipient of the CSUF Carol Barnes Award for Excellence in Teaching. He has served as State Choral Representative and Southern Section President for the California Music Educators Association (CMEA), as well as the Western Division Representative for the National Association for Music Education’s (NAfME) Council for Choral Education. He has also served the California Choral Directors Association in various offices, including CCDA President and is the current Vice President. His collegiate textbook “RESONANCE: The ART of the Choral Music Educator” is published by Pavane and is being used across the United States to train future choral music teachers and conductors. Peterson has been invited to teach, judge, and conduct choirs in more than thirty US states, five Canadian Provinces, and nine countries including China, England, Sweden, Japan, Germany, New Zealand, and Holland, and has conducted AllState Choirs across the nation including Maine, North Carolina, Oregon, Wisconsin, and California. He also holds the position of Director of Music at Irvine United Congregational Church in Irvine, CA. His “hobby” for many decades has been enjoying singing barbershop harmony, and he is a BHS District Quartet Champion baritone, a top-5 medalist chorus director, and a four-time gold medalist with the Masters of Harmony, nine-time International Men’s Chorus Champions of the Barbershop Harmony Society.
DONOR APPLAUSE $1,000,000+ Mr. Douglas G. Stewart Johnny Carson Foundation $50,000 - $99,000 Mrs. Louise Shamblen Dr. Tedrow and Mrs. Susan Perkins $25,000 - $49,000 Mr. John Brennan and Ms. Lucina Moses Leo Freedman Foundation Mr. Steve and Mrs. Robin Kalota Mr. David Sikula and Ms. Patricia Meade Ms. Sharon Lesk Mr. Darryl Curran Mr. John Phelps and Mrs. Kerry Laver-Phelps $10,000 - $24,999 Mr. Bob and Mrs. Terri Niccum Mrs. Marilyn D. Carlson Mr. James and Mrs. Eleanore Monroe Dr. Edward and Mrs. Sue Sullivan Ms. Teri Allen Mr. William and Mrs. Ellen Groves Mr. Norm and Mrs. Sandy Johnson Mrs. Jill Kurti Norman Mr. Ernest and Mrs. Donna Schroeder Ms. Kathleen Hougesen Mr. Richard and Mrs. Lois Daybell Mr. Leo and
Mrs. Connie Licciardone
Mr. Gordon Paine Ms. Christine Rhoades $5,000 - $9,999 Dr. Joseph and Dr. Voiza Arnold Mrs. Evelyn Francuz
Mr. Richard and Mrs. Susan Dolnick Mr. Gregory and Mrs. Shawna Ellis Mr. Jerome and Mrs. Mary Reinhart Dr. Robert M. Istad and Mr. David Navarro
Ms. Jane Oatman Mrs. Kathryn Partrick Mr. Stephen W. Collier and Ms. Joann E. Driggers Dr. George and Mrs. Karen Mast Mr. Frank Hinojoz Mrs. Dianne Nilsen Mr. Nick and Mrs. Dorothy Batinich Mrs. Janet Green Alexandra Grant Mrs. Martha Shaver Mrs. Thelma Mellott Cindy Alcorn Dr. Judith Anderson and Dr. Haldon Anderson Ms. Lynn Beeler Mr. Allan and Mrs. Janet Bridgford Mr. James and Mrs. Diane Case Mr. Randall Clark Sarah DuVal Dr. Anne Fingal Dr. Mark J. Goodrich and Mr. James E. Petri Mr. Billy Owens and Mrs. Michelle H. Jordan Ms. Gladys Kares Mark Miller Mr. Robert F and Mrs. Nancy Rennie Ms. Esther Rollins Mr. D. Schmitt Sadie Zeller Mr. Joseph and Mrs. Linda Zimmermann Mr. William and Mrs. Karen McClung
$1,000 - $4,999 Mrs. Bettina Murphy Mrs. Gloria Schlaepfer Mrs. Norma Morris Peter Michalowski Susan Michalowski Mr. Ujinobu Niwa and Mrs. Yoshino G. Niwa Ms. MaryLouise Hlavac Mrs. Marsha Gallavan Ms. Veronica Michalowski Dr. Stephen Rochford Charlles Boyer Ms. Barbara A. Kerth and Ms. Lorena L. Sikorski Mrs. Marion Brockett Mr. William F. Clark and Mrs. Mary Ann Y. Hamamura-Clark The Lindquist Family Mrs. Shirley Laroff Ms. Junko Klaus Ms. Verne Wagner Dr. Leon and Mrs. Annette Gilbert Mr. James Henriques Mr. Colin Connor and Ms. Debra L. Noble Mrs. Barbara J. Andes Mr. William and Mrs. Martha Kurschat Ms. Karen Bell Mr. Daniel and Mrs. Linda Jenkins Mr. Jeffrey and Mrs. Gayle Kenan Dr. Wayne and Dr. Ruth Zemke Dr. Margaret Gordon James and Mary Weidner Charitable Fund
Very special care has been given to the prepartion of this donor list. Questions or concerns, please contact: Dominic Mumolo | 657-278-7695
*deceased
|
Gifts received from July 1, 2025, to August 30, 2026
ONTIVEROS SOCIETY The Ontiveros Society includes individuals who have provided a gift for Cal State Fullerton through their estate plan. We extend our deep appreciation to the following Ontiveros Society members, whose gifts will benefit the students and mission of the College of the Arts. ANONYMOUS JOHN ALEXANDER LEE & DR. NICHOLAS A.* BEGOVICH MARC R. DICKEY JOANN DRIGGERS BETTY EVERETT CAROL J. GEISBAUER & JOHN* GEISBAUER SOPHIA & CHARLES GRAY MARYLOUISE & ED* HLAVAC GRETCHEN KANNE DR. BURTON L. KARSON ANNE L. KRUZIC* LOREEN & JOHN LOFTUS ALAN A. MANNASON* WILLIAM J. MCGARVEY* VERONICA MICHALOWSKI DR. SALLIE MITCHELL*
ELEANORE P. & JAMES L. MONROE LYNN & ROBERT MYERS BOB & TERRI NICCUM DWIGHT RICHARD ODLE* SHERRY & DR. GORDON PAINE DR. JUNE POLLAK & MR. GEORGE POLLAK* DR. STEPHEN M. ROCHFORD STAN MARK RYAN ‘75 MARY K. & WILLIAM SAMPSON LORENA SIKORSKI DOUGLAS G. STEWART ANDREA J. & JEFFREY E. SWARD RICHARD J. TAYLOR VERNE WAGNER RICHARD WULFF DR. JAMES D. & DOTTIE YOUNG*
We Proudly Recognize Our
VOLUNTEER SUPPORT GROUPS ART ALLIANCE promotes excellence and enjoyment in the visual arts, and their fundraising efforts contribute to student scholarship, gallery exhibitions, opening receptions and sculpture acquisition on campus. MUSIC ASSOCIATES maintains a tradition of active involvement and community support and raises scholarship funds for School of Music students through annual fundraising events and membership dues.
MORE INFORMATION Dominic Mumolo, Senior Director | dmumolo@fullerton.edu
GET INVOLVED! GIVING.FULLERTON.EDU
*deceased
shape the future of the arts Support the College of the Arts Fund for Innovation today!
As a go-to leader within the California State University system, Cal State Fullerton is a top regional university and is ranked 7th in the nation for social mobility. Our continuing efforts to achieve significance and impact are not only fundamental to our identity as a university; they define the character of the arts. The College of the Arts Fund for Innovation* directly addresses this significance and is invaluable to our students’ long-term success. It provides the necessary equipment, technologies, and programs for students to remain on the cutting edge of creative industries. This fund is intended to evolve as industry needs evolve to prepare our students for successful careers in the future of the arts. *established by Varla E. Newbury Knauss and Curtis A. Knauss in July of 2025.
GET INVOLVED. GIVE TODAY! Dominic Mumolo, Sr. Dir. of Development P: 657-278-7695 E: dmumolo@fullerton.edu
CSUF COLLEGE OF THE ARTS • SELECT EVENTS | FALL 2026 College of the Arts Galleries Visual Arts, Bldg. G TOM LADUKE: slowly, the song goes Spetember 26–May 7, 2027 PATRICK MERRILL: Prints from the Permanent Collection, 2006-2009 September 21–December 9, 2026
Ernest Salem, violin & Alison Edwards, piano November 8, 2026, at 3 PM Meng Concert Hall
The History of Jazz Piano & Irrelevant Topics Bill Cunliffe and Alison Edwards, pianos Friday, Septmber 25, 2026 at 8 PM Meng Concert Hall
Mainly Mancini A Fullerton Pops! concert November 15, 2026, at 3 PM Meng Concert Hall
University Symphony Orchestra: Visions on Grandeur October 3, 2026, at 3 PM Meng Concert Hall
Innervisions & Blue Note Vocal Jazz Ensembles November 18, 2026, at 8 PM Meng Concert Hall
A Monster Calls October 8–17, 2026 Young Theatre
University Symphonic Winds November 20, 2026 8 PM Meng Concert Hall
University Wind Symphony: Venerations October 10, 2026, at 3 PM Meng Concert Hall
Fall Dance Theatre: Rise Together December 3–12, 2026 Little Theatre
University Symphonic Winds: Soundscapes October 11, 2026, at 3 PM Meng Concert Hall
Fullerton Jazz Chamber Ensemble & Fullerton Latin Ensemble December 4, 2026, at 8 PM Meng Concert Hall
The Madwoman of Chaillot October 16, 17; 21–24, 2026 at 8 PM Arena Theatre Quarteto Nuevo October 17, 2026, at 8 PM Meng Concert Hall In the Heights October 22–31, 2026 Little Theatre University Singers & Concert Choir October 25, 2026 at 3 PM Meng Concert Hall
Opera Scenes: Boys Will Be Boys November 13–15, 2026 Recital Hall
University Wind Symphony December 6, 2026, at 3 PM Meng Concert Hall Titan Voices & Singing Titans December 7, 2026, at 8 PM Meng Concert Hall Fullerton Jazz Orchestra December 8, 2026 8 PM Meng Concert Hall University Band December 9, 2026, at 8 PM Meng Concert Hall
Kerry Jennings, tenor, and Randall Goldberg, guitar October 28, 2026 at 8 PM Recital Hall
Well-Behaved Women December 9–12, 2026 Grand Central Theatre (Santa Ana)
Fullerton Jazz Orchestra & Fullerton Jazz Chamber Ensemble October 30, 2026, at 8 PM Meng Concert Hall
Deck the Hall at Cal State Fullerton! December 12, 13, 2026 Meng Concert Hall
Macbeth November 5–14, 2026 Hallberg Theatre
S TAY CO N N EC T E D arts.fullerton.edu/connect
Harmonious Motion December 17, 2026 Hallberg Theatre
FULL CALENDAR artscalendar.fullerton.edu
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