GUEST ARTIST
DENNIS HOLDEN-NORTHERNER
Dennis Holden-Northerner, MME, MT-BC
Dennis Holden-Northerner is a board-certified and state licensed Music Therapist with both a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Old Dominion University. He earned his music therapy certification from Shenandoah University.
Dennis is an accomplished percussionist and educator, teaching and performing throughout the Hampton Roads area. His expertise spans all areas of percussion, including snare drum, mallet percussion, drum set, timpani, auxiliary percussion, and world percussion.
He currently serves as an adjunct percussion faculty member at the F. Ludwig Diehn School of Music at Old Dominion University, where he teaches applied percussion and conducting courses. Additionally, he is an Instructor for the Community Music Division (CMD), offering private percussion lessons to students of all ages and skill levels.
As a performer, Dennis has appeared with numerous ensembles in the Hampton Roads region, including the Virginia Symphony, Williamsburg Symphony, Richmond Symphony, Virginia Chorale, The Tidewater Winds, Symphonicity, and the Virginia Winds Symphony.
He resides in Norfolk, Virginia, with his wife and two children.
Dennis Holden-Northerner is a board-certified and state licensed Music Therapist with both a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Old Dominion University. He earned his music therapy certification from Shenandoah University.
Dennis is an accomplished percussionist and educator, teaching and performing throughout the Hampton Roads area. His expertise spans all areas of percussion, including snare drum, mallet percussion, drum set, timpani, auxiliary percussion, and world percussion.
He currently serves as an adjunct percussion faculty member at the F. Ludwig Diehn School of Music at Old Dominion University, where he teaches applied percussion and conducting courses. Additionally, he is an Instructor for the Community Music Division (CMD), offering private percussion lessons to students of all ages and skill levels.
As a performer, Dennis has appeared with numerous ensembles in the Hampton Roads region, including the Virginia Symphony, Williamsburg Symphony, Richmond Symphony, Virginia Chorale, The Tidewater Winds, Symphonicity, and the Virginia Winds Symphony.
He resides in Norfolk, Virginia, with his wife and two children.
SINGERS
Please note that all singers do not sing all concerts.
KRISTIN BALL
ALTO
BM in Vocal Performance from Baylor University; MS in Arts Administration from Boston University.
Managing Director for Virginia Chorale.
Active choir member at Great Bridge United Methodist Church in Chesapeake.
Served as alto section leader and soloist at International Protestant Church in Zurich, Switzerland.
Has sung with the female ensemble Schwung (Zurich) and the Rocktown Consort (Harrisonburg, VA).
Mother of three awesome children.
Managing Director for Virginia Chorale.
Active choir member at Great Bridge United Methodist Church in Chesapeake.
Served as alto section leader and soloist at International Protestant Church in Zurich, Switzerland.
Has sung with the female ensemble Schwung (Zurich) and the Rocktown Consort (Harrisonburg, VA).
Mother of three awesome children.
RANDALL BALL
TENOR
DMA in Vocal Performance, Pedagogy, and Literature from James Madison University, MM and BM in Vocal Performance from Baylor University.
Director of Worship Music and Arts at Great Bridge United Methodist Church.
Music teacher at Sparrow Road Elementary School in Chesapeake.
Currently an Adjunct Professor of Voice at Virginia Wesleyan University, Adjunct Instructor of Voice at University of Virginia (2012-2016), and Applied Vocal Instructor at James Madison University (2009-2011).
Voice teacher at the Governor's School for the Arts 2020-2023.
Has sung with Ft. Worth Opera, Waco Lyric Opera, Opera North, Santa Fe Opera, Utah Festival Opera, Boston Lyric Opera, Opernhaus Zürich, and Luzerner Theater.
Director of Worship Music and Arts at Great Bridge United Methodist Church.
Music teacher at Sparrow Road Elementary School in Chesapeake.
Currently an Adjunct Professor of Voice at Virginia Wesleyan University, Adjunct Instructor of Voice at University of Virginia (2012-2016), and Applied Vocal Instructor at James Madison University (2009-2011).
Voice teacher at the Governor's School for the Arts 2020-2023.
Has sung with Ft. Worth Opera, Waco Lyric Opera, Opera North, Santa Fe Opera, Utah Festival Opera, Boston Lyric Opera, Opernhaus Zürich, and Luzerner Theater.
CHRISTINA BARTHOLOMEW
SOPRANO
BA in Vocal Performance from East Carolina University; MME from Old Dominion University.
Associate conductor for the Craven Community Chorus and rehearsal conductor for the Eastern Carolina Heritage Chorale (2014-15). Recent solo engagements of note include Mozart's Requiem, Handel's Messiah, Mozart's Coronation Mass, Rutter's Requiem, Mrs. Gobineau (Menotti's The Medium), and Belinda (Purcell's Dido and Aeneas).
Chorus Manager for Virginia Chorale and adjunct music professor at Old Dominion University and College of the Albemarle.
Associate conductor for the Craven Community Chorus and rehearsal conductor for the Eastern Carolina Heritage Chorale (2014-15). Recent solo engagements of note include Mozart's Requiem, Handel's Messiah, Mozart's Coronation Mass, Rutter's Requiem, Mrs. Gobineau (Menotti's The Medium), and Belinda (Purcell's Dido and Aeneas).
Chorus Manager for Virginia Chorale and adjunct music professor at Old Dominion University and College of the Albemarle.
BRIAN BLAIR
TENOR
Earned an BM from Christopher Newport University.
Has served as a core singer with the Williamsburg Chorale Guild for their 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 seasons.
Currently a Tenor section leader at Bruton Parish Episcopal Church in Williamsburg
Has served as a core singer with the Williamsburg Chorale Guild for their 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 seasons.
Currently a Tenor section leader at Bruton Parish Episcopal Church in Williamsburg
JOSEPH BROWN
TENOR
Earned a BM and MAT from Christopher Newport University.
Earned a Post-Graduate certificate in choral conducting from Old Dominion University.
A member of YSP in 2015.
Current choral director for Maury High School.
Performs as a clarinetist and bass clarinetist with the Chesapeake Bay Wind Ensemble and Tidewater Winds Concert Band.
Serves as a tenor section leader at Christ and St. Lukes Episcopal church.
Earned a Post-Graduate certificate in choral conducting from Old Dominion University.
A member of YSP in 2015.
Current choral director for Maury High School.
Performs as a clarinetist and bass clarinetist with the Chesapeake Bay Wind Ensemble and Tidewater Winds Concert Band.
Serves as a tenor section leader at Christ and St. Lukes Episcopal church.
KELLI BLY
ALTO
- BM in Music Education from SUNY College at Fredonia; MME in Music Education Applied Voice from Old Dominion University.
- Current Doctoral Student at Liberty University working towards a DME in Music Education.
- Currently an adjunct professor at Old Dominion University.
- Core alto with Virginia Symphony Chorus and has performed in the chorus of several productions with Virginia Opera.
CHRISTOPHER BURNETTE
TENOR
BM in Vocal Performance from Lamar University.
Participated in the Chorale's Young Singers Project from 2006-07.
Finalist in the Greater Houston National Association of Teachers of Singing competition in 2011.
Chorister at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Norfolk.
Participated in the Chorale's Young Singers Project from 2006-07.
Finalist in the Greater Houston National Association of Teachers of Singing competition in 2011.
Chorister at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Norfolk.
CARTER CAMPBELL
BASS
A versatile music educator and performer in Hampton Roads.
Has appeared with the Virginia Chorale, the Norfolk Chamber Consort, and Opera in Williamsburg for their production of Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice.
Has also appeared in numerous vocal and instrumental ensembles at his alma mater Old Dominion University, where he graduated with a BM in Instrumental Music Education and an MME in Applied Choral Conducting, studying piano with Dr. Andrey Kasparov, voice with Dr. Larry Giddens, and choral conducting with Dr. Nancy Klein.
Currently the orchestra director at Princess Anne High School in Virginia Beach, in addition to teaching fifth grade strings at two Virginia Beach elementary schools.
Active as an organist and chorister at St. Benedict's Catholic Church in Chesapeake.
Has appeared with the Virginia Chorale, the Norfolk Chamber Consort, and Opera in Williamsburg for their production of Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice.
Has also appeared in numerous vocal and instrumental ensembles at his alma mater Old Dominion University, where he graduated with a BM in Instrumental Music Education and an MME in Applied Choral Conducting, studying piano with Dr. Andrey Kasparov, voice with Dr. Larry Giddens, and choral conducting with Dr. Nancy Klein.
Currently the orchestra director at Princess Anne High School in Virginia Beach, in addition to teaching fifth grade strings at two Virginia Beach elementary schools.
Active as an organist and chorister at St. Benedict's Catholic Church in Chesapeake.
AJEE CHURCH
TENOR
BA in Music Education from Virginia Wesleyan College, MME from Norfolk State University.
Current Chairman of District II’s Choral Assessments.
Current Choral Director at Granby High School.
Toured as a soloist in 2019 to sing in 5 cities in Italy.
Toured with the Wesleyan Singers and Wesleyan Chorale in 2014 to sing in Carnegie Hall.
Tenor Section Leader and soloist at First Lutheran Church of Norfolk.
Current Chairman of District II’s Choral Assessments.
Current Choral Director at Granby High School.
Toured as a soloist in 2019 to sing in 5 cities in Italy.
Toured with the Wesleyan Singers and Wesleyan Chorale in 2014 to sing in Carnegie Hall.
Tenor Section Leader and soloist at First Lutheran Church of Norfolk.
SARAH GRACE EVANS
SOPRANO
Bachelor's in Music with a concentration in Choral Music Education from Christopher Newport University
Master's in Teaching from Christopher Newport University.
Current Choral Director at Great Bridge Middle School in Chesapeake, VA.
Soprano Section Leader at Christ and St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Norfolk, VA.
Master's in Teaching from Christopher Newport University.
Current Choral Director at Great Bridge Middle School in Chesapeake, VA.
Soprano Section Leader at Christ and St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Norfolk, VA.
KIRKLAND FENERTY
BASS
B.M. - Vocal Performance Concentration from James Madison University.
Currently in his second season of work with the VA Opera Chorus (‘24-’25,’25-’26), Commonwealth Concert Opera (‘24-’25,’25-’26), and a frequent soloist in the Richmond area. With performances in the U.S. and abroad, his operatic roles include the titular character in Mozart’s Don Giovanni, Marcello and Schaunard (Puccini’s La Bohème), Nick Shadow (Stravinsky’s The Rake’s Progress), Wagner (Gounod’s Faust), Silvio (Leoncavallo’s I Pagliacci), and Papageno (Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte).
Opera Chorus credits include Bizet's Carmen, Gounod's Faust, Heggie's Dead Man Walking, Monteverdi's L'incoronazione di Poppea, and Geter's Loving v. Virginia (WP). Past choral work includes collegiate engagements with The JMU Chorale, a brief stint with the Madison Singers (JMU), and as a ringer/cantor for several congregations in the Greater Richmond and Shenandoah regions.
Currently in his second season of work with the VA Opera Chorus (‘24-’25,’25-’26), Commonwealth Concert Opera (‘24-’25,’25-’26), and a frequent soloist in the Richmond area. With performances in the U.S. and abroad, his operatic roles include the titular character in Mozart’s Don Giovanni, Marcello and Schaunard (Puccini’s La Bohème), Nick Shadow (Stravinsky’s The Rake’s Progress), Wagner (Gounod’s Faust), Silvio (Leoncavallo’s I Pagliacci), and Papageno (Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte).
Opera Chorus credits include Bizet's Carmen, Gounod's Faust, Heggie's Dead Man Walking, Monteverdi's L'incoronazione di Poppea, and Geter's Loving v. Virginia (WP). Past choral work includes collegiate engagements with The JMU Chorale, a brief stint with the Madison Singers (JMU), and as a ringer/cantor for several congregations in the Greater Richmond and Shenandoah regions.
BRANCH FIELDS
BASS
Described by Opera America as “a bass of resonant richness,” is a versatile performer engaged throughout North America and beyond in opera, musical theater, and concert. Has sung with Santa Fe Opera, New York City Opera, Boston Lyric Opera, Edmonton Opera, Michigan Opera Theatre, Utah Opera, Opera San Jose, and many other regional companies throughout the U.S. and Canada. In concert, has performed with the Munich Philharmonic, National Symphony Orchestra, Santa Fe Symphony, MDR Leipzig, and the American Symphony Orchestra. Versatility as a singing actor led to his Broadway debut in South Pacific, understudying the role of Emile de Becque in the 2008 Lincoln Center Theater production, which won seven Tony Awards. Has been Emile in 7 productions of South Pacific throughout the U.S. and Canada, nominated for “Best Actor in a Musical” by theater critic circles in Boston, Massachusetts, and Richmond, Virginia. Recent performances include Sir Lancelot for Intermountain Opera Bozeman, Robert in Bridges of Madison County for The Ghostlight Theater in Michigan, Leporello in Don Giovanni for Indianapolis Opera, also Commendatore for Opera in Williamsburg’s Don Giovanni, and Capt. Von Trapp for Charlottesville Opera, Montana TheaterWorks, and The Southwest Michigan Symphony. Is a guest artist in the Lackey Clinic fundraising gala, “A Night of Broadway Music” at the Ferguson Center for the Performing Arts, Frank in Opera in Williamsburg’s Die Fledermaus, and Balthazar in Greensboro Opera’s Amahl & the Night Visitors. Stream or download Branch’s solo album “Be Thou My Vision” on iTunes and all other services.
MITCHELL FRIZZELL
BASS
Earned a bachelor of music in music history from Temple University and a master of social work from Indiana Wesleyan University. Currently serves as a staff singer at Christ & St. Luke's Episcopal Church (Norfolk) after many years of service with the choir at Christ Church Christiana Hundred (Delaware).
Past experiences include: workshops with Philip Moore, James O'Donnell, and John Rutter; choral residencies in Bristol Cathedral (UK), Westminster Abbey (UK), and St. Paul's, London; as well as the 2024 Good Friday Offering video recording produced by the Episcopal Church which was broadcast worldwide.
Supports clients in his work as a mental health therapist and lives in Norfolk with his husband Charles and their vast collection of jigsaw puzzles and Dolly Parton memorabilia.
Past experiences include: workshops with Philip Moore, James O'Donnell, and John Rutter; choral residencies in Bristol Cathedral (UK), Westminster Abbey (UK), and St. Paul's, London; as well as the 2024 Good Friday Offering video recording produced by the Episcopal Church which was broadcast worldwide.
Supports clients in his work as a mental health therapist and lives in Norfolk with his husband Charles and their vast collection of jigsaw puzzles and Dolly Parton memorabilia.
BRENT HARTIGAN
BASS
Undergraduate Vocal Performance at ODU.
Baritone/Tenor Section Leader and Soloist at First Presbyterian Church of Virginia Beach.
Has sung with Virginia Chorale, Atlantic Music Festival, Young Singers Project, Virginia Opera, Lyric Opera of Virginia, Symphonicity, and Virginia Musical Theater.
Previous Roles of note include Jean Valjean (Les Misérables), Eisenstein (Die Fledermaus), Leporello (Don Giovanni), Adam/Noah (Children of Eden) and as the Tenor for Buxtehude’s Membra Jesu Nostri.
Baritone/Tenor Section Leader and Soloist at First Presbyterian Church of Virginia Beach.
Has sung with Virginia Chorale, Atlantic Music Festival, Young Singers Project, Virginia Opera, Lyric Opera of Virginia, Symphonicity, and Virginia Musical Theater.
Previous Roles of note include Jean Valjean (Les Misérables), Eisenstein (Die Fledermaus), Leporello (Don Giovanni), Adam/Noah (Children of Eden) and as the Tenor for Buxtehude’s Membra Jesu Nostri.
CASSANDRA HOWARD
SOPRANO
Studied vocal performance at Old Dominion University under Sondra Gelb.Has performed as a soloist internationally in France, Italy, Switzerland, and Japan. She has also been a featured soloist with the Symphonicity Orchestra and The Virginia Beach Chorale.
Has performed with the Virginia Opera and has held professional positions at several churches in the Hampton Roads area.
Currently soprano section leader at Royster Presbyterian Church and The Virginia Beach Chorale.
Has performed with the Virginia Opera and has held professional positions at several churches in the Hampton Roads area.
Currently soprano section leader at Royster Presbyterian Church and The Virginia Beach Chorale.
KATHRYN KELLY
ALTO
BM in Vocal Performance and MM in Vocal Pedagogy & Performance from Westminster Choir College.
Currently serves as an Adjunct Professor of Applied Voice at Old Dominion University and on the Voice Faculty of the Governor's School for the Arts and maintains a thriving private studio.
She has performed the roles of Gretel (Hansel and Gretel) Monica (The Medium) Tisbe (La Cenerentola) Dorabella (Cosi fan Tutte) among others.
She is a frequent recitalist throughout Hampton Roads and is the soprano soloist at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Norfolk.
Currently serves as an Adjunct Professor of Applied Voice at Old Dominion University and on the Voice Faculty of the Governor's School for the Arts and maintains a thriving private studio.
She has performed the roles of Gretel (Hansel and Gretel) Monica (The Medium) Tisbe (La Cenerentola) Dorabella (Cosi fan Tutte) among others.
She is a frequent recitalist throughout Hampton Roads and is the soprano soloist at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Norfolk.
CLAUDIA KESSEL
ALTO
B.A. in music (vocal performance), University of Illinois; M.A. in public policy.
Has sung with Tidewater Opera Initiative, Bel Cantanti Opera, Thomas Circle Singers, The Washington Chorus, Wisconsin Chamber Choir, Isthmus Vocal Ensemble, Cantori, Virginia Choral Society, and at the Madison Early Music Festival.
Currently sings with James River Singers in Richmond, at Bruton Parish Episcopal Church, and is employed as the alto choral scholar and cantor at St. Bede Catholic Church in Williamsburg.
Has enjoyed collaborating with local musicians to perform art songs and chamber works in recital.
Works as a grant writer for the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation’s history museums.
Has sung with Tidewater Opera Initiative, Bel Cantanti Opera, Thomas Circle Singers, The Washington Chorus, Wisconsin Chamber Choir, Isthmus Vocal Ensemble, Cantori, Virginia Choral Society, and at the Madison Early Music Festival.
Currently sings with James River Singers in Richmond, at Bruton Parish Episcopal Church, and is employed as the alto choral scholar and cantor at St. Bede Catholic Church in Williamsburg.
Has enjoyed collaborating with local musicians to perform art songs and chamber works in recital.
Works as a grant writer for the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation’s history museums.
MICHAEL KOELLNER
BASS
BM in Music Education with emphasis in choral conducting from the University of Arizona.
Has sung as a bass staff singer in various ensembles, including St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Helios Ensemble, the Tucson Barbershop Experience, the Tucson Masterworks Chorale, where he was also the assistant director, and in the University of Arizona’s premiere ensemble, Symphonic Choir where he served as president and bass section leader.
Has sung as a bass staff singer in various ensembles, including St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Helios Ensemble, the Tucson Barbershop Experience, the Tucson Masterworks Chorale, where he was also the assistant director, and in the University of Arizona’s premiere ensemble, Symphonic Choir where he served as president and bass section leader.
ELISE RAMOS KREPCHO
SOPRANO
BM in Vocal Performance from Southeastern University (Lakeland, FL). Chorus and Guitar teacher at Grassfield High School in Chesapeake, VA. Has served consecutive terms as Secretary for the Virginia Choral Directors Association. Former Interm Artistic Director of Williamsburg Choral Guild, and is the Director of Music at First Presbyterian Church, Virginia Beach.
JULIANA MARIN
SOPRANO
MM in Vocal Performance from Peabody Conservatory; BM in Vocal Performance from Towson University.
Works professionally as a singer, music teacher, and Alexander Technique teacher in Baltimore, MD.
Currently a Vocal Fellow with the Baltimore Choral Arts Society.
Has sung with the Maryland Choral Society, The Choral Arts Society of Washington and Baltimore's Pitch Craft Collective.
Participated twice in the Seraphic Fire Professional Choral Institute at the Aspen Music Festival.
Recipient of the Peabody Career Development Grant and the George Woodhead Prize in Voice.
Awarded the Music Department Talent Award and first place in the Dr. Sydney Lieberman Music Competition at Towson University.
Active member of the Mind Body Music School community.
When not teaching or learning music, writes music and plays games.
Works professionally as a singer, music teacher, and Alexander Technique teacher in Baltimore, MD.
Currently a Vocal Fellow with the Baltimore Choral Arts Society.
Has sung with the Maryland Choral Society, The Choral Arts Society of Washington and Baltimore's Pitch Craft Collective.
Participated twice in the Seraphic Fire Professional Choral Institute at the Aspen Music Festival.
Recipient of the Peabody Career Development Grant and the George Woodhead Prize in Voice.
Awarded the Music Department Talent Award and first place in the Dr. Sydney Lieberman Music Competition at Towson University.
Active member of the Mind Body Music School community.
When not teaching or learning music, writes music and plays games.
STEVEN MARTINEZ
TENOR
MME in Choral Conducting and Vocal Performance from Old Dominion University, BM in Vocal Performance from Christopher Newport University. Currently serving as Choral Director at Gloucester High School and sings with Cantori Vocal Ensemble in Williamsburg. Has performed with VA Opera and as section leaders in several churches.
MONIQUE MELCHOR
SOPRANO
A distinguished soprano and accomplished music educator, holding dual degrees in Music Education and Vocal Performance from Old Dominion University.
A dynamic artist and devoted mother of two, Monique currently serves as the chorus director at Westside Elementary School, where she inspires the next generation of young vocalists through engaging, standards-based instruction.As a seasoned performer, Monique is an active member of the Virginia Opera Chorus and previously sang with the I. Sherman Greene Chorale and the historic Christ & St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Her operatic repertoire includes roles in renowned productions such as Carmen, Turandot, Roméo et Juliette, La Bohème, and The Worst One Ever. In 2015, she performed in the world premiere of a newly composed score for Oscar Micheaux’s silent film Within Our Gates (1919), with music by Adolphus Hailstork, featuring The Harlem Quartet and the I. Sherman Greene Chorale. Most recently, Monique captivated audiences as Maria Von Trapp in The Sound of Music at Smithfield Little Theatre. She is thrilled to join the Virginia Symphony Chorus as a core member for the 2025–2026 concert season, continuing her commitment to excellence in both performance and education.
A dynamic artist and devoted mother of two, Monique currently serves as the chorus director at Westside Elementary School, where she inspires the next generation of young vocalists through engaging, standards-based instruction.As a seasoned performer, Monique is an active member of the Virginia Opera Chorus and previously sang with the I. Sherman Greene Chorale and the historic Christ & St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Her operatic repertoire includes roles in renowned productions such as Carmen, Turandot, Roméo et Juliette, La Bohème, and The Worst One Ever. In 2015, she performed in the world premiere of a newly composed score for Oscar Micheaux’s silent film Within Our Gates (1919), with music by Adolphus Hailstork, featuring The Harlem Quartet and the I. Sherman Greene Chorale. Most recently, Monique captivated audiences as Maria Von Trapp in The Sound of Music at Smithfield Little Theatre. She is thrilled to join the Virginia Symphony Chorus as a core member for the 2025–2026 concert season, continuing her commitment to excellence in both performance and education.
GARY MONTGOMERY
TENOR
BM in Vocal Performance from Christopher Newport University. Frequent soloist throughout Virginia and the East Coast.In 2017 he premiered Kristin Kuster’s opera KEPT: a ghost story with Virginia Arts Festival. Other operatic roles include Arnalta (Monteverdi's L'incoronazione di Poppea), Don Basilio (Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro), Bel Core (Donizetti's L'elisir d'amore), Toby (Menotti's The Medium), and many more. Concert and recital credits include Orff's Carmina Burana, Handel's Messiah, Haydn's The Creation and Missa in angustiis (Lord Nelson Mass), Beethoven's Symphony No. 9, Vaughan Williams' Serenade to music, and Songs of Travel, Wagner's Wesendonck Lieder, and many more. Has performed with many top orchestras including the Dallas Symphony, Houston Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, Richmond Symphony, and Virginia Symphony. Has also worked with many leading conductors including J. Lynn Thompson, John Rutter, and JoAnn Falletta. He currently works for the Virginia Arts Festival; is a staff singer at Christ & St. Luke's Episcopal Church (Norfolk) and frequent performer with the Virginia Chorale.
KIMBERLY NICKERSON
SOPRANO
BS in Vocal Performance from Western Washington University (Bellingham, WA).
Has performed with Virginia Musical Theatre in roles including Julie Jordan in Carousel and Laurey in Oklahoma; and with Virginia Opera, as Barberina in Mozart's Le nozze di Figaro, and in the chorus and as a cover for operas including The Merry Widow, Romeo et Juliette, Carmen, and La Traviata.
Has taught at the Governor's School for the Arts and currently maintains a private voice studio.
Mom of two amazing and supportive children.
Has performed with Virginia Musical Theatre in roles including Julie Jordan in Carousel and Laurey in Oklahoma; and with Virginia Opera, as Barberina in Mozart's Le nozze di Figaro, and in the chorus and as a cover for operas including The Merry Widow, Romeo et Juliette, Carmen, and La Traviata.
Has taught at the Governor's School for the Arts and currently maintains a private voice studio.
Mom of two amazing and supportive children.
ABBY OUTLAW
SOPRANO
BM in Vocal Performance from Virginia Commonwealth University. Has performed with Capital Opera Richmond, the Richmond Symphony, Central Virginia Masterworks Chorale, the Eckhart Ensemble, and Richmond Choral Society. Currently sings with the Piedmont Singers of Central Virginia, the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, and St. Stephen's Episcopal Church.
JP PAUL
TENOR
MM in Classical Voice Performance from the University of Memphis and frequent soloist in Hampton Roads and Virginia.
Operatic roles include Mayor Upfold (Albert Herring), Beppe (Pagliacci), Alfredo (Die Fledermaus), Don Basílio (Le nozze di Figaro), and others. Concert and recital credits include Rossini’s Petite messe sollenelle, Handel's Messiah, Haydn’s Missa in angustiis (Lord Nelson Mass), Beethoven's Symphony No. 9, Vaughan Williams' Serenade to Music, and many more.
Currently works as an independent fundraising consultant and is a staff singer at Galilee Episcopal Church Virginia Beach) and frequent performer with the Virginia Chorale.
Also part of the Virginia Opera chorus in 2023-2024 and a member of the professional core of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus.
Operatic roles include Mayor Upfold (Albert Herring), Beppe (Pagliacci), Alfredo (Die Fledermaus), Don Basílio (Le nozze di Figaro), and others. Concert and recital credits include Rossini’s Petite messe sollenelle, Handel's Messiah, Haydn’s Missa in angustiis (Lord Nelson Mass), Beethoven's Symphony No. 9, Vaughan Williams' Serenade to Music, and many more.
Currently works as an independent fundraising consultant and is a staff singer at Galilee Episcopal Church Virginia Beach) and frequent performer with the Virginia Chorale.
Also part of the Virginia Opera chorus in 2023-2024 and a member of the professional core of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus.
CORBIN PINTO
SOPRANO
Received a MM from Virginia Commonwealth University summa cum laude and BM in Music Education magna cum laude from James Madison University.
An active and accomplished music educator and has taught in Virginia Beach City Public Schools for 22 years.
Currently the Director of the Vocal strand of the Visual and Performing Arts Academy at Salem HS in VA Beach.
Artistic Director and Concert Choir director for the Virginia Children's Chorus.
Has served as a leader on many educational committees including curriculum writing for VBCPS, vice-president for VA Choral Directors Association, and Review Committee for the VA DOE Vocal Instructional Guide.
Resides in Norfolk with her three children and husband.
An active and accomplished music educator and has taught in Virginia Beach City Public Schools for 22 years.
Currently the Director of the Vocal strand of the Visual and Performing Arts Academy at Salem HS in VA Beach.
Artistic Director and Concert Choir director for the Virginia Children's Chorus.
Has served as a leader on many educational committees including curriculum writing for VBCPS, vice-president for VA Choral Directors Association, and Review Committee for the VA DOE Vocal Instructional Guide.
Resides in Norfolk with her three children and husband.
EMILY RUSSELL
ALTO
Taught music in private and public schools in Hampton Roads; now has a private voice and piano studio.
In addition to singing with the Chorale, has performed with Virginia Opera and served as their Children's Chorus Master.
She is a frequent soloist for Symphonicity and the Orchestra of Eastern Shore.
In addition to singing with the Chorale, has performed with Virginia Opera and served as their Children's Chorus Master.
She is a frequent soloist for Symphonicity and the Orchestra of Eastern Shore.
SARAH SCHWEIT
SOPRANO
BM in Vocal Music Education from James Madison University.
Owner of Embellish Music Studios.
Soprano and Music Director of The Doorway Singers.
Has an active private voice studio.
Former Director of Choirs at Col. Fred Cherry Middle School (2018 - 2023).
Performs with various local theaters and churches.
Owner of Embellish Music Studios.
Soprano and Music Director of The Doorway Singers.
Has an active private voice studio.
Former Director of Choirs at Col. Fred Cherry Middle School (2018 - 2023).
Performs with various local theaters and churches.
MARSHALL SEVERIN
BASS
BM in Vocal Performance from Christopher Newport University.
Performed with Virginia Chorale, Virginia Musical Theater, and Virginia Opera.
Upper and Middle School Chorus Teacher at Hampton Roads Academy.
Has performed as a soloist for various churches and arts organizations in the Hampton Roads area.
Performed with Virginia Chorale, Virginia Musical Theater, and Virginia Opera.
Upper and Middle School Chorus Teacher at Hampton Roads Academy.
Has performed as a soloist for various churches and arts organizations in the Hampton Roads area.
JORDAN SWETT
ALTO
MM in Opera Performance from the University of Maryland, College Park; BM in Voice Performance from the University of Connecticut.
This is her first engagement with both Opera in Williamsburg and Virginia Chorale.
Currently in her second season as a member of the Opera Chorus with Virginia Opera, and has also been a featured soloist on VAO’s Wednesday Wind Down concert series.
Has performed as a featured artist in productions in Italy, Germany, and around the United States.
Teaches private voice lessons.
Has been the Alto Section Leader and featured soloists at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, and St Paul’s Parish, both in Washington, D.C.
This is her first engagement with both Opera in Williamsburg and Virginia Chorale.
Currently in her second season as a member of the Opera Chorus with Virginia Opera, and has also been a featured soloist on VAO’s Wednesday Wind Down concert series.
Has performed as a featured artist in productions in Italy, Germany, and around the United States.
Teaches private voice lessons.
Has been the Alto Section Leader and featured soloists at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, and St Paul’s Parish, both in Washington, D.C.
SARAH TAYLOR
SOPRANO
BM in Vocal Performance and BA in Art History from Indiana University; Masters in Public Administration and Policy from the University of Georgia. Current graduate student in Couples, Marriage, and Family Counseling at William and Mary. Soprano soloist at Bruton Parish Episcopal (Williamsburg). Has sung with the Seattle Opera Chorus and Boston University Tanglewood Institute.
NERISSA THOMPSON
ALTO
Attended Westminster Choir College as a candidate for a Bachelor's in Music Education.
Has performed with the Virginia Opera for four seasons; past productions include Samson and Delilah, Turandot, and Carmen.
Previously sang with Tidewater Opera Initiative as a mainstage performer in Dido and Aeneas and The Medium.
Served as Music Director for several local theater productions including the Williamsburg Player's 2016 Jekyll and Hyde and LTN's 2018 local premiere of First Date.
Holds a position as the alto Section Leader and soloist at First Lutheran Church of Norfolk.
Has performed with the Virginia Opera for four seasons; past productions include Samson and Delilah, Turandot, and Carmen.
Previously sang with Tidewater Opera Initiative as a mainstage performer in Dido and Aeneas and The Medium.
Served as Music Director for several local theater productions including the Williamsburg Player's 2016 Jekyll and Hyde and LTN's 2018 local premiere of First Date.
Holds a position as the alto Section Leader and soloist at First Lutheran Church of Norfolk.
AARON TODD
TENOR
BM in Choral Music Education from James Madison University. Tenor Section Leader, Richmond Symphony Chorus & Chamber ChoirAaron has served as a choral and orchestral director at the middle- and high-school levels in Henrico County Public Schools and Richmond Public Schools. He also sings, plays piano, and conducts in church music ministries in the Short Pump area.
As a spirited music educator and choral singer, he has sung in workshops and performances under such conductors as Axel Theimer, Scott Tucker, Bruce Chamberlain, Joe Miller, Charles Bruffy, Nigel Short, and Rodney Eichenberger.
Pursuing his passions for learning and development as well as cultivating cultures of diversity, equity, and belonging, Aaron currently works as an HR professional with the West Cary Group in downtown Richmond and Camp Kids Place LLC in Arlington, VA.
As a spirited music educator and choral singer, he has sung in workshops and performances under such conductors as Axel Theimer, Scott Tucker, Bruce Chamberlain, Joe Miller, Charles Bruffy, Nigel Short, and Rodney Eichenberger.
Pursuing his passions for learning and development as well as cultivating cultures of diversity, equity, and belonging, Aaron currently works as an HR professional with the West Cary Group in downtown Richmond and Camp Kids Place LLC in Arlington, VA.
JOHN TYNDALL
BASS
BA in Vocal Performance from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Made his professional operatic debut as Barone Douphol in Verdi's La Traviata with the Bronx Opera Company.
Performed at Carnegie Hall with Musica Sacra under the direction of Kent Tritle and as soloist with the Atlantic Chamber Ensemble for Beck's Song Reader album, of which two recordings were featured on National Public Radio.
John is a highly sought-after ensemble singer and soloist in the Greater Richmond Area. He serves as the staff bass section leader and soloist at Richmond's St. James Episcopal Church. He also sings regularly as a bass section leader at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart (Richmond).
Made his professional operatic debut as Barone Douphol in Verdi's La Traviata with the Bronx Opera Company.
Performed at Carnegie Hall with Musica Sacra under the direction of Kent Tritle and as soloist with the Atlantic Chamber Ensemble for Beck's Song Reader album, of which two recordings were featured on National Public Radio.
John is a highly sought-after ensemble singer and soloist in the Greater Richmond Area. He serves as the staff bass section leader and soloist at Richmond's St. James Episcopal Church. He also sings regularly as a bass section leader at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart (Richmond).
MELINDA VAN NIEL
SOPRANO
Sings with the choir of Christ and St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Norfolk, VA.
Has sung with many ensembles in her career as a section leader and soloist, including the Choir at The Chapel of the Cross Chapel Hill, Duke University Evensong Choir, the Choir of the Church of the Holy Trinity Philadelphia, and the Choral Fellows of the Harvard University Choir.
Has also performed with the Philadelphia Opera Company Chorus has sung a variety of opera roles including Zerlina in Don Giovanni, Dorabella in Cosi Fan Tutte, Cherubino in Le Nozze di Figaro, and Laurie in The Tender Land.
Has sung with many ensembles in her career as a section leader and soloist, including the Choir at The Chapel of the Cross Chapel Hill, Duke University Evensong Choir, the Choir of the Church of the Holy Trinity Philadelphia, and the Choral Fellows of the Harvard University Choir.
Has also performed with the Philadelphia Opera Company Chorus has sung a variety of opera roles including Zerlina in Don Giovanni, Dorabella in Cosi Fan Tutte, Cherubino in Le Nozze di Figaro, and Laurie in The Tender Land.
