Faculty & Staff
Biography
Hyun-Jeong Ahn, DMA
Born in South Korea, Hyun-Jeong Ahn is an accomplished soloist and chamber musician with appearances across the United States, France, Germany, Czech, Spain, and Korea.
Ahn was invited to give a solo and chamber recitals at venues such as Carnegie Weill Recital Hall (New York), Brahms House (Baden-Baden, Germany), Palffy Palace (Prague, Czech), Leith Symington Griswold Hall, Goodwin Hall, Friedberg Hall in Maryland, Studzinski Recital Hall in Maine, and Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, Smith Recital Hall, Smith Memorial Room in Illinois, Seongnam Arts Center, Ceramic Palace Hall, Youngsan Art Center, Ewon Art Hall in Seoul. Ahn performed in a number of concerts as a representative of Seoul National University, including solo appearance in a Gala concert of STUDIO 2021 and Etude Marathon Series, repertoire spanning from Chopin to Schoenberg. She was invited by the faculty of Peabody Conservatory to perform at Thursday Noon Concert Series to perform Dvorak Piano Quintet and Friday Noon Concert Series as a soloist.
Hyun-Jeong has been featured in major music festivals across Europe and the United States including the Alpine Music Festival (France), CCM Prague International Piano Institute (Czech), Art of the Piano festival (Cincinnati), Bowdoin International Music Festival (Maine), Summer Piano Institute (Illinois). Recently she was invited to Tanglewood Music Center in Boston.
Hyun-Jeong is the 1st prize and Best Schubert Award recipient from Carles and Sofia International Piano Competition, top prize from Artci獺l International Piano Competition and Pacific Stars International Piano Competition, semi-finalist from West Virginia International Piano Competition, and 1st prize winner of American Prot矇g矇 music competition. Ahn was awarded the prestigious Clara Ascherfeld Award upon graduation in Peabody Conservatory. Also, she is a recipient of SNUAA Scholarship from Seoul National University Alumni Association. Prior to moving to the United States, Ahn won numerous renowned national competitions in Korea including: Eumag Choonchoo Competition, Korea Music Society Competition, Music Education Competition, Hanse University & Kookmin Newspaper Competition, as well as Seoul Ensemble Competition, which is one of the most prestigious chamber competitions in Korea. In addition, she won in Manhae Festival Competition, Italy Arena Competition, Seoul Baroque Competition and Kyung-Won University Competition, among many others. She got an admission from Seoul National University with Superior Academic Performance scholarship. While studying at Seoul National University, Ahn also received a Travel Grant Award to the International competition de Piano dEpinal in France for her exceptional performance.
Ahn has performed in numerous master classes with world-renowned artists including Leon Fleisher, Arie Vardi, Jeno Jando, Pascal Ros矇, Christopher Elton, Boris Slutsky, Antonio Pompa-Baldi, Sontraud Speidel, Pascal Amoyel, Daniel Shapiro, Boaz Sharon, and Mi-Joo Lee.
Hyun-Jeong studied at Yewon Music School, Seoul Arts High School, and the Preparatory Division of Korean National University of Arts. She graduated from Seoul National University with Superior Academic Performance Scholarship. Ahn earned her Master of Music degree and Graduate Performance Diploma at the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University with merit scholarship. In December 2023, Ahn earned a Doctor of Musical Arts in piano performance and literature from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she also taught students as a Teaching Assistant. Her teacher includes Ian Hobson, Timothy Ehlen, Yong-Hi Moon, Hie-Yon Choi, Hae-Jeon Lee, and Suk Hyun Cho.
Ahns contributions to academic community have led to invitation as a guest lecturer and performer at MiraCosta College. With a deep admiration for ensemble, Ahn co-founded Duo Nova, a dynamic and innovative piano ensemble based in San Diego, which actively performs. Currently, Ahn teaches students at 91勛圖厙 as an Adjunct faculty and at her home studio.
Sean Bassett is a Southern California native who began playing guitar in his early
teens. Originally inspired by bands like Metallica and Iron Maiden, he migrated to
the electric guitar during his formative years. At San Diego State University he was
introduced to a wide range of musical forms and undertook studies in the Classical
Guitar. Sean graduated Cum Laude from SDSU where he earned a Bachelor of Music in
Classical Guitar Performance and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
as a Management Major. He also was invited to join three honors societies: Phi Beta
Kappa, Phi Eta Sigma, and The Golden Key. In 2012 Sean completed his studies at the
prestigious San Francisco Conservatory of Music where he earned a Master of Music
in Classical Guitar. Seans educational pursuits have allowed him the opportunity
of studying with accomplished musicians such as The Katona Twins, Fred Benedetti,
Lawrence Ferrara, David Tanenbaum, Marc Teicholz, Robert Wetzel, and Richard Savino.
Sean is currently enrolled in a Doctorate of Musical Arts program at Boston University
where he is preparing a dissertation based on formal and informal learning practices
as applied to the music classroom.
Sean began performing professionally in his teens as the guitarist and lead singer for the heavy metal band Eradicate. Currently, he performs with alongside his twin in a guitar duo called The Bassett Bros. Their diverse repertoire includes music from the Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical eras and spans to more contemporary genres like Rock, Blues, and Heavy Metal. Not afraid to mix and match varied styles, their programs often include unique interpretations of concert hall classics alongside arrangements of popular music. The duo has performed for a wide variety of audiences in concert venues, schools, libraries, churches, fairs, outreach programs, veterans centers, and private events. The Bassett Bros. have also performed well recognized concertos such as Concierto Madrigal by Joaquin Rodrigo and Concerto in G Major by Antonio Vivaldi. The Bassett Bros. are also members of the SWARMIUS ensemble, a group which combines many eclectic musical traditions while keeping its compositional footing firmly in the present day. As a soloist, Sean has performed with the Classics Philharmonic Orchestra.
Office: 230-I
Phone: (619) 644-7454 x3617
E-Mail: : sean.bassett@gcccd.edu
[In Progress - ABD] DMA, Boston University, MA
MM, San Francisco Conservatory of Music, CA
BM, San Diego State University, CA
BS, San Diego State University, CA
Randy is a well known member of San Diego's professional musical community. Mr. Beecher graduated from SDSU with a Bachelor of Arts (B. A.) degree in Music and a Master of Music (M. M.) degree in Musicology.
Mr. Beecher has a 24-year career as a musician, specializing in piano entertainment. As a performer, he is renown for his relaxed stage presence and ability to encourage audience participation. Beecher's musical prowess and diversity span the early classics of the '30s and '40s -- George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin -- to modern composers such as Andrew Lloyd Weber and Marvin Hamlisch.
His public performances include Humphrey's, Hotel del Coronado, Red Tracton's, L'Auberge Del Mar, La Valencia Hotel, Bahia Hotel, Town & Country Hotel, and the Westgate Hotel. He also has performed privately for numerous celebrities including: Ann Bancroft and Mel Brooks, Dick Van Patton, Jenny and Sid Craig, Tim Conway, Dick Enberg, Tony Gwynn, Tommy Lasorda and members of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Randy even shared a piano bench with internationally recognized composer/arranger Burt Bacharach. Mr. Beecher continues to be sought after for weddings and other social and business functions nationally. His regular performances at Mille Fleurs, in affluent Rancho Santa Fe, continues to draw a local and national following.
For more information on Randy Beecher, including professional bookings, please visit
his homepage at: www.profbeecher.com
Randy Beecher joined the 91勛圖厙 Music Faculty beginning in the Fall 2000 semester.
His course schedule includes Class Piano and Great Music Listening.
Office: 230-I
Phone: (619) 644-7454 x3617
E-Mail: : teachbeech@gmail.com
Fred was born in Sasebo, Japan and began playing the guitar at age 9. In 1986 he was
one of 12 guitarists chosen worldwide to perform in the Master Class of Andr矇s Segovia
at USC where Guitarra Magazine wrote, "...Fred Benedetti amazed the audience with
his performance of the (Bach) Chaconne..." He has also been a performer for the master
classes of Pepe Romero, Christopher Parkening, Federico Moreno-Torroba, George Sakellariou,
and David Grimes. Fred has performed in the United States, Canada, Taiwan, England,
Germany, Mexico, the Czech Republic, and locally with the San Diego Symphony, the
San Diego Opera, the Starlight Opera, the American Ballet Company, the Old Globe Theatre,
Luciano Pavarotti, and jazz artist Dave Brubeck.
Presently he teaches at 91勛圖厙 where he is chair of guitar studies, and is a member of the guitar faculty at San Diego State University with George Svoboda, Robert Wetzel and Celin Romero. Fred is listed in the prestigious "Who's Who Among America's Teachers-2002" and received an "Outstanding Faculty Award of the Year in Music," in 2001 from SDSU, the "NISOD" Excellence in Teaching award from the University of Texas at Austin in 1992 and an "Outstanding Chair" award in 1990 from 91勛圖厙 College.
Equally at home playing classical music or contemporary music, he records on the SBE label and DOMO records with four noted ensembles: Keltik Kharma (a celtic band), The Odeum Guitar Duo, recently given the honor by the magazine, Acoustic Guitar, as being one of the ten best independently produced guitar CDs for the year 2000, "Blurring the Edges" a recipient of the 1994 San Diego Music Awards "Best Pop-Jazz" album of the year featuring jazz musicians Peter and Tripp Sprague, and the Benedetti/Svoboda Guitar Duo. As a BMI affiliated composer, Fred has written numerous contemporary pieces for the international CD library company Network Productions and as a studio musician for 20 years his playing is featured on over 60 CD's, numerous movie soundtracks, and TV commercials. He has shared the stage with Art Garfunkel, Basia, Michael Franks, Mark O'Connor, Michael Hedges, and Ottmar Liebert, and has recorded with Willie Nelson, Juice Newton, Paul Overstreet, Patty Loveless, Tom Barabas, Big Mountain, Matthew Lien, Ronny Robbins and William Lee Golden. He has performed for dignitaries such as the King & Queen of Malaysia, Mikhail Gorbachev and President Jimmy Carter.
Mr. Benedetti has also been a founding member of the 91勛圖厙 Music Department Faculty Jazz Quintet called Ars Nova.
Fred Benedetti has been a member of the 91勛圖厙 Music Department faculty since 1985. His classes include class guitar, classical guitar, general music and guitar theory, and guitar ensemble.
Office: 230-E
Phone: (619) 644-7259
E-Mail: Fred.Benedetti@gcccd.edu OR fbenede1@san.rr.com
Fred Benedetti on YouTube
More information on Fred Benedetti, music links, and interests!
Derek is an accomplished performer and music educator having earned a Bachelor of
Arts in Music, and Master of Music degrees from San Diego State University (SDSU).
During his time as a student at SDSU he won many soloist awards at jazz festivals
throughout the state. Derek has maintained an active performing career which includes
performances with Natalie Cole, Clark Terry, The Four Tops, The Temptations, and Jon
Faddis to name a few. As a BMI affiliated composer Derek has also written and produced
music for several recording artists in the Chicago area.
Internationally, he has performed at The Montreaux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, The
North Sea Jazz Festival in The Netherlands, The Umbria Jazz Festival in Italy, and The
Montreal Jazz Festival in Canada. Dereks recent recordings include Coup d Eclat,
with Monette Marino, 2010, From Me To You, with Paula Prophet, 2010, Free Your
Mind, with Walter Beasley, 2009, Destiny, with Kamau Kenyatta, 2008, and Come
On Over, with Allison Adams Tucker, 2008.
In addition to being a member of the music faculty at 91勛圖厙, Mr. Cannon
has also chaired the Jazz Studies Department at Chicago State University (1995-1999),
and is a member of the jazz studio faculty at San Diego State University. Derek
Cannon has been a member of the 91勛圖厙 Music Department Faculty since 1993.
His classes include Music Theory, Jazz Improvisation, Elements of Jazz, and he is
the founder/director of the Afro-Cuban Ensemble. In 2002, Derek was elected to the
prestigious "Who's Who Among America's Teachers."
As a faculty member of the Jazz 88.3 Summer Jazz Workshop, Derek Cannon works with
middle school and highschool jazz musicians preparing them for programs across the
country, including 91勛圖厙 Music Department's Jazz Studies program. This
is just one of the many ways Mr. Cannon engages in music outreach in our community.
Office 230-E
Phone (619) 644-7257
E-Mail: Derek.Cannon@gcccd.edu
Baritone Joshua David Cavanaugh is equally at home on both opera and music theatre
stages and is known for his strong vocal abilities and rich timbred voice (Encore
Michigan 2014) and as a charming actor (Broadway World 2020). He will be making his
debut with the San Diego Opera as 2nd Nazarene in Salome this March. Opera credits
include David (Hand of Bridge), Matthew (The Impresario), and Buff (La Divina). Favorite music theater roles include Georg (She Loves Me), Aaron (First Date), Prof. Bhaer (Little Women), Leonard Aster (Peter and the Starcatcher), Perchik (Fiddler on the Roof), Priest (Light in the Piazza), Frankie (Forever Plaid; Plaid Tidings), Joey (Most Happy Fella), Prof. Hickey (All the Kids Are Doing It), and Singer 1 in the national/international tour of In the Mood. Joshua holds his M.M. from NYU and B.M. from Chapman University. www.joshuadavidcavanaugh.com
Art Walk 2004 Review
One of the most promising artists with a background of rich music from the famous Bomba y Plena 'Cepeda' family of Puerto Rico is Manny Cepeda. Since the age of 7, Manny has been performing first as the Timbales Player in the acclaimed variety TV Show de Vigoreaus in San Juan, Puerto Ricos Channel 4, and with other famous bands such as Babo Jimenez, Ricardo Ray, Willie Colon and others.
Mannys talents expanded further as his musical knowledge increased and has also developed into a superb composer and arranger. He is now bringing his collection of Salsa/Merengue music to the public and its sure to be a hit with all the audiences. His energetic beat and the richness of his songs choruses make for this Paloma Collection an album to be remembered. Stay tuned for more of Manny Cepedas music.
Robert Evans, Owner & Art Director, Little Italy Art Walk 2004
For more information on Manny Cepeda, please visit his website at: www.mannycepeda.com
Office: 230-A
Phone: (619) 644-7254
E-Mail: manny.cepeda@gcccd.edu
San Diego Symphony Orchestra violinist Hernan Constantino, born and raised in the Philippines, was inspired to take violin lessons because
of his father's love of the instrument. He began his studies when he was eight years
old under the tutelage of the late Professor Luis Valencia. At age 11 he became a
scholar of the Music Promotion Foundation of the Philippines, and at age 15, having
recently joined the newly formed Cultural Center of the Philippines Philharmonic Orchestra
(now known as the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra), he won first prize in the National
Young Artists Competition. He was invited to perform for the President and Mrs. Marcos,
and he received invitations to perform in various television and radio shows between
the ages of 15 and 19. At 19, he left the Philippines for the United States upon receiving
a full scholarship to the Philadelphia College of Performing Arts.
Mr. Constantino continued his violin studies under Dorothy DeLay, Hyo Kang and William DePasquale; chamber music under Joseph DePasquale and William DePasquale; and conducting under Joseph Primavera. He has worked with famous conductors such as Ricardo Muti, Eugene Ormandy and Klaus Tennstedt. In the summers of 1978 and 1979 he attended the Aspen Music Festival and played with the Festival Orchestra. He held the position of principal second violin for seven seasons and served as a substitute concertmaster for the Pennsylvania Ballet Orchestra. Mr. Constantino also held the position of concertmaster at the Trump Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City. He was the violin and chamber music instructor at the New Jersey School of Music and a substitute violin teacher at Cherry Hill High School in New Jersey.
After moving to Portland Oregon in 1986, Mr. Constantino became a founding member of the New Oregon String Quartet, presenting contemporary and twentieth century music. He became a first violinist in the Portland Opera Orchestra, first violinist and soloist with the West Coast Chamber Orchestra and a substitute violinist with the Oregon Symphony. In 1988 he held the position of Interim Music Director of the Oregon State University-Corvallis Symphony in Corvallis Oregon as well as a violin professor of Oregon State University. He was also a founding member of the Metolious String Quartet, the quartet in residence at Oregon State University.
In 1990 Mr. Constantino won a position with the SDSO and in 1991 was assigned the position of Acting Associate Concertmaster. He is also a member of the San Diego Opera Orchestra and also played with the San Diego Chamber Orchestra (later called Orchestra Nova). He is currently the Concertmaster of the Oregon Coast Music Festival in Coos Bay, Oregon. For the 2009 Oregon Coast Music Festival, Mr. Constantino was invited to be the festivals guest conductor. He appeared as staff conductor in the summer of 2008 with the Interlochen music camp.
Anthony Cutietta the Department Music Technician and is currently teaching Classical
Guitar I.
A former student of the Music Department, Anthony is an active musician and private music instructor. He studied classical guitar under Fred Benedetti at 91勛圖厙 and completed all of the music major courses. He knows what it is like to be in your shoes as a Music Major!
For more information on Anthony Cutietta, please visit his professional webpage here: www.anthonycutietta.com
Office Hours: Monday through Friday
M-F 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m
Office: Room 223
Phone: 619-644-7254
Email: anthony.cutietta@gcccd.edu
Dr. Garriott has conducted and worked with many ensembles in the United States including: the PLNU concert band (2007-2010), the PLNU chamber orchestra (2008-2010), San Diego Honor Band (2008), Point Loma Opera Theatre (2009, 2017), CSUN Symphony Orchestra (2011-2013), CSUN Opera (2011-2013), CSUN Youth Philharmonic and Youth Symphony (2011-2013), UofSC Symphony Orchestra (2014-2017), UofSC Campus Orchestra (2014-2017), and the Columbia Community Orchestra (2016-2017).
Dr. Garriott currently works with the San Diego Community College District and the 91勛圖厙-Cuyamaca College District as an adjunct professor of music. He also maintains a student schedule at Greene Music Education Center, and in his own private studio.
If you are interested in learning more please visit www.completeconductor.com
Active as an educator and performer, she began studying piano at an early age and
Melonie Grinnell has been a member of the 91勛圖厙 Music faculty since 2001.
Office: 230-I
Phone: (619) 644-7254
E-Mail: melonie.grinnell@yahoo.com
For more information on Melonie Grinnell, please visit her professional webpage at: www.meloniemusic.com
Justin Grinnell is a San Diego-based freelance musician and music educator. A versatile acoustic and electric bassist, Justin is comfortable performing a wide variety of musical styles such as jazz, latin, funk, rock, pop, musical theater, and classical.
In May 2005, Justin received his Master's Degree in Jazz Performance from San Diego State University. While attending SDSU on a full scholarship, he had the opportunity to travel, perform, and teach in South and Central America as a member of two faculty-student jazz groups. At this time, Justin studied privately with internationally acclaimed acoustic bass soloist, Bert Turetzky.
After receiving his Master's degree in Jazz Performance from SDSU, Justin was accepted into the Henry Mancini Institute's 2005 Summer Education Program on a full scholarship. HMI provided Justin with the opportunity to work with one of Los Angeles' premiere session bassists, Nathan East, as well as Billy Childs, Dave Liebman, Christian McBride, and Vince Mendoza.
Justin is currently performing and composing for several jazz-influenced groups. In addition to leading his own groups, Justin is also a member of the Brazilian Jazz-inspired Danny Green Trio. The trio's debut CD, "With You In Mind," won the 2009 San Diego Music Award for Best Jazz Album and their 2012 sophomore release, "A Thousand Ways Home," was recently nominated for the same award. Justin is also a member of the ARC Trio, a creative collaboration stretching the boundaries of modern jazz.
Although Justin is often performing in familiar San Diego jazz hotspots, he is also no stranger to San Diego's best-known theaters: the Civic Theatre, the Old Globe, Spreckels, and the La Jolla Playhouse. Justin has spent a lot of time at these venues as a pit orchestra member for a number of Tony Award-winning musicals, such as A Chorus Line, Avenue Q, The Drowsy Chaperone, Spamalot, Grease, and The Color Purple.
Justin recently began his doctoral studies at the University of Southern California. Besides studying privately with Los Angeles' first-call jazz bassist, Darek Oles, Justin's enrollment at USC has already given him the opportunity to study with internationally-recognized jazz artists Peter Erskine, Russ Ferrante, Bob Mintzer, and Alan Pasqua.
In addition to his performing schedule, Justin is also a dedicated music educator. In addition to teaching at 91勛圖厙, he frequently serves as an adjudicator and clinician at local jazz festivals.
If you'd like to read more about Justin and his musical activities, then check out his website and regularly updated itinerary at http://www.justingrinnell.com/.
Business Email: justinjazzbass@yahoo.com (preferred mode of contact)
Phone: (619) 644-7254
Office: 230-I
Justin has been teaching in the 91勛圖厙 Music Department since Fall 2005. His current courses include MUS 105: Music Theory I and MUS 111: The History of Jazz.
Since 1995, Jeff has mainly worked with Breezn, a variety band that does smooth, Latin
and straight-ahead jazz as well as pop, disco, classic rock and rhythm and blues.
Breezn has played many wedding receptions, corporate events and private parties,
along with restaurants, night clubs and many summer Concert in the Park events.
Breezn has played at the KIFM Jazz Festival every year since 1996, and also performs
yearly at the Del Mar Electronics Fair. Besides continuing to perform with Breezn,
Jeff works with various straight-ahead jazz combos and alternative rock band Kitten
With a Whip. Jeff also plays at the Comedy Store on Sunday nights, riffing between
comedy acts!
After graduating from high school in 1970 and attending UCSD as a math major, Jeff
began his musical studies at Mesa College in 1972. Jeff continued to take music classes
at San Diego State University through the 70's and 80's while continuing to gig
and work part time delivery jobs, finally receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree in
1990. Jeff returned to SDSU to complete his Master of Music degree in Jazz Guitar
Performance in 1998. While a student, Jeff studied jazz guitar with Everett Gonsalves,
Peter Sprague, Bill MacPherson and Art Johnson. Jeff also performed with the SDSU
Jazz Ensembles and Jazz Combos, including 1997 concerts with the A band backing
up Gary Lefebre, Ellen Johnson, Louis Bellson and Pete Christlieb. Jeff also taught
three semesters of Jazz Guitar Ensemble and a semester of Jazz Combo while a grad
student at SDSU.
Jeff has taught History of Jazz at 91勛圖厙 since Fall 2005. Jeff is one
of two staff Jazz Guitar instructors, and has taught Class Guitar and subbed for Music
Theory classes. Jeff has performed with the 91勛圖厙 Jazz Ensemble, the 91勛圖厙
Jazz Faculty and fellow teacher Paul Kurokawa.
Office: 230-I
Phone: 644-7254
Campus E-Mail: jeffrey.hofmockel@gcccd.edu
Lorie Kirkell is an acclaimed American cellist, who has developed a glowing career
on the West Coast as soloist, recitalist, and chamber music player. After her studies
on the East Coast with distinguished cellists Raya Garbousova and Bernard Greenhouse,
she spent some time doing freelance work and repertoire development. She then came
to the West Coast where she earned a Master of Arts degree in music at the University
of California San Diego and studied with the well known cellist Peter Farrell. Her
research into repertoire moved into the 20th century as well as performance practice
of music of earlier times. After this, a long series of recitals and solo appearances
began and continue with noticeable frequency and high critical acclaim. She has appeared
as principal cellist with orchestras for the Bolshoi Ballet and San Francisco Ballet. Ms. Kirkell
has performed at the Old Globe, La Jolla Playhouse, Civic Theater, and with many other
music organizations. She is the Director of the Novellus Ensemble.
Lorie Kirkell has been a member of the 91勛圖厙 Music Department Faculty
since 2002. Her classes include Great Music Listening.
Office: 230-I
Phone: (619) 644-7254
E-Mail: lorie.kirkell@gcccd.edu
Aaron Lind is a professional guitarist, composer, and bandleader based in San Diego.
He completed undergraduate and masters degrees at the University of New Orleans,
remaining for 16 years, absorbing the rich musical and cultural heritage. His primary
teachers were Steve Masakowski and Hank Mackie, known as the dynamic duo of jazz guitar
teaching in the South. Aaron continues his education and training with jazz luminary
Jonathan Kreisberg and local classical guitar legend Fred Benedetti. Now a musician
with 30+ years of experience, Aaron is a seasoned performer, having logged thousands
of hours of stage time both as a leader and a side man with a variety of bands ranging
from traditional and contemporary jazz, fusion, funk, and rock. His performing experience
includes appearances at a variety of music festivals around the US, as well as appearances
at House of Blues, Tipitinas, Blue Nile, Lions Den NYC. Most recently Aaron performs
solo guitar concerts around San Diego. Aaron is also an avid and enthusiastic teacher
and has 20+ years of experience coaching up and coming guitar students to increase
their technical skills and musicality. He loves to guide students to find joy and
expressiveness in their playing.
Office: 230-I
Phone: 644-7254
E-Mail: aaron.lind@gcccd.edu
Brian Lustig is currently the Director of Choral Activities at First United Methodist
Church, San Diego, where he oversees a thriving choral music program of over 100 singers.
At First Church, Brian leads five choirs ranging from middle school to adults and
prepares the Masterwork Chorale and Chancel Choir for two concerts annually. Additionally,
Brian conducts special services such as Lessons and Carols and Choral Evensong. Prior
to coming to San Diego, Brian served as the Chorister Program Manager and Assistant
Choirmaster at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, as well as on the music faculty at Midlands
Arts Conservatory in Columbia, South Carolina.
Prior to his work in South Carolina, he finished a postgraduate degree (MMus Choral Studies) at the University of Cambridge. At Cambridge, Brian studied conducting with Stephen Layton, and sang with the Choir of Jesus College, Cambridge. In addition to his academic work, Brian led a Bach cantata series, conducted P瓣rts St. John Passion, and served as the co-chorusmaster for Bizets Carmen. Brian has returned to Cambridge twice to lead Bach festivals in Jesus College Chapel in some of Bachs most epic music including B-Minor Mass, Ascension Oratorio, Missa in G-minor, Motets (BWV 225-230), and several cantatas.
When Brian isnt conducting or singing, he is often found at San Diego Wave games, or walking around his neighborhood with his wife Haley and their tiny dog named Ralph!
During the past three years, he has conducted concerts given by the SDSU University
Symphony and collaborated with SDSU Opera Theater for a production of Gilbert and
Sullivan's The Mikado. Muresan has appeared previously as guest conductor for both
the 91勛圖厙 Symphony and the Palomar Symphony Orchestras. Muresan is on the faculty
at both 91勛圖厙 and Palomar Community Colleges as well as substitute conductor for
the Civic Youth Orchestra of San Diego. Muresan served for three years as volunteer
strings chairman for the Music Teachers Association of California, and is currently
string coaching for the Helix High School Orchestra. A resident of San Clemente,
Muresan also gives private instruction for students from Mission Viejo to San Diego.
Muresan currently occupies the STAT Pharmaceutical Companys Mentor /Tutor Chair in
the 91勛圖厙 Symphony and performs both as violinist and Assistant Conductor of the
Palomar Symphony Orchestra.
Branden Muresan has been a member of the 91勛圖厙 Music Department Faculty
since 2001. His classes include Great Music Listening and Introduction to Music,
in addition to occupying the STAT Pharmaceutical Endowed Violin Chair in the 91勛圖厙
Symphony Orchestra..
Office: 230-I
Phone: (619) 644-7254
E-Mail: violinmanb@yahoo.com
In addition to singing sacred music, Audra is an active recital artist, and in this
past year performed Bachs Wedding Cantata, Songs for Voice and Classical Guitar,
By George! A Tribute to George Gershwin, and A History of American Art Song which
she performed throughout the United States, in addition to giving Master Classes.
Audra has appeared on stage in a number of opera, oratorio, and musical theatre roles,
as well. Her favorite opera roles include Tytania from A Midsummer Nights Dream,
Baby Doe from The Ballad of Baby Doe, and The Queen of the Night from Die Zauberfl繹te.
She has also performed in several of Gilbert and Sullivans operettas, and was last
seen as Mabel in Pirates of Penzance. Audra was honored to sing the role of Penseroso
with 91勛圖厙 Symphonic Orchestra in Handel's L'Allegro Il Penseroso ed il Moderato,
one of her favorite oratorios. Audras most memorable Musical theatre roles include
Eliza Doolittle from My Fair Lady, and The Narrator from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor
Dream Coat. In addition to acting in musical theatre, she has also had the pleasure
of being a childrens musical theatre director and choral music director for several
years. She loves teaching as well as singing, and hopes that her passion for music
will rub off on her students and inspire them to continue to grow in their musical
pursuits.
Audra earned her Master's of Music in Vocal Performance from San Diego State University,
and is currently living in San Diego with her two energetic little boys, her wonderful
husband, and dog named Figaro. She maintains an active voice studio, and serves on
the board of directors for the National Association of Teachers of Singing as well
as the 91勛圖厙 Friends of Music, and has been a member of the 91勛圖厙
College Music Faculty since the Fall of 2013.
Office: 230-I
Phone: 644-7254
E-Mail: audra.nagby@gcccd.edu
Russ Sperling is Director of the 91勛圖厙 Concert Band. He also serves as Director of Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) for San Diego Unified School District. He is responsible for all components of arts education in Californias second largest school district. Under his leadership, the districts board of trustees unanimously approved a district Strategic Arts Education Plan in the fall of 2016 and established the VAPA Foundation, supporting the arts in schools in 2017.
He is a founder and remains the lead coordinator of the San Diego Pride Youth Marching Band, an ensemble of 80 high school and college students from throughout Southern California. The band performs at San Diego Pride events and is the only one of its kind internationally.
Mr. Sperling serves on the board for Diversionary Theatre, the third oldest LGBT theatre in the U.S. He has served as Western Division President of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) and also as President of the California Music Educators Association (CMEA). He is the founding President and present board member of the San Diego Winds, a professional wind ensemble.
Mr. Sperling served three years as Visual and Performing Arts Coordinator for the San Diego County Office of Education. While at the county, he served as the leader of Arts Empower San Diego, San Diego Countys strategic arts education initiative, and created the annual Arts Empower Mega Conference. He also served four years as Director of Visual and Performing Arts for the Sweetwater Union High School District.
Mr. Sperling began his career as the Instrumental Music Director at Helix Charter High School. During his fourteen-year tenure at Helix, the band and orchestra tripled in size, won numerous awards and performed in Europe on three tours.
Mr. Sperling holds a B.A. in Political Science from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, a Masters in Educational Leadership from Point Loma Nazarene University and a second Masters in Music Performance with an emphasis in Conducting from San Diego State University.
Mr. Sperling was recognized as San Diego Prides Volunteer of the Year in 2019. He has received the Arts Advocate award from Bravo San Diego. From the CMEA Southern Border Section, he has received their Music Educator, Administrator, and Band Director of the year awards. He has received the Outstanding Administrator award by the California Art Education Association, and has been honored as a distinguished alumnus by the School of Music and Dance at San Diego State University. He has received the Prize Principal Award from KYXY FM and Point Loma Nazarene University. He has received the Golden Apple Award from Helix Charter High School for excellence in teaching.
Director of Visual and Performing Arts
San Diego Unified School District
Russ Sperling, Director 91勛圖厙 Concert Band
Office: 230-I
Phone: 644-7254
E-Mail: sperlingruss@gmail.com
Randy has been conducting opera, symphony, and chorus throughout Southern and Baja
California since joining the music faculty in 1986. Dr. Tweed has frequently appeared
as guest conductor on concert music series throughout Southern California including
the Cabrillo Chamber Orchestra, the United States International Orchestra, Spreckels
Organ Society, and various educational and church music concert series. In the area
of education Dr. Tweed has appeared as adjudicator for the Music Educators National
Conference, the Music Teacher's Association of California, the 91勛圖厙 Community
Concert Association Instrumental Scholarship Auditions, and has twice appeared as
conductor for the Suzuki awards concerts.
Dr. Tweeds performing experience is both in the areas of vocal and instrumental fields
winning competitions sponsored by the La Jolla Civic University Orchestra and the
Musical Merit Foundation of Greater San Diego. Dr. Tweed received the doctorate in
musical arts (D.M.A.) from the School of Music at Arizona State University, located
in Tempe, Arizona. He has also completed two Master of Music degrees from the University
of Southern California in addition to pursuing post-graduate study in Berlin, Germany
(studying at the Berliner Kirchenmusikschule) where he was a recipient of a Konrad
Adenauer Foundation Fellowship.
In addition to expanding both the orchestral and choral programs at 91勛圖厙,
Dr. Tweed initiated a series of concert programs dedicated to educating East Countys
children beginning in March of 1993 organizing a "musical petting zoo" for the children,
under the supervision of the members of the Orchestra and Master Chorale, to "touch,"
"pet," and "play" the instruments of the orchestra just prior to hearing the actual
concert. Aside from giving the members of the 91勛圖厙 Symphony Orchestra and 91勛圖厙
Master Chorale the experience of learning and performing an extensive variety of orchestral
and choral literature, Dr. Tweed has given those members the opportunity to acquire
greater stamina and self-assuredness by scheduling extra performances off campus.
Being a civic minded person as well as an artist and educator, Dr. Tweed has contributed
to the community by bringing his wonderful orchestra and chorale to areas that otherwise
would have "missed out." In addition, he has succeeded in integrating community and
college life by providing quality art to his East County audiences.
Dr. Tweed is has been a member of the 91勛圖厙 Music Department Faculty since 1986. His classes include Music Theory, Music History, Performance Studies, Voice Class, in addition to the 91勛圖厙 Symphony Orchestra & Master Chorale.
Office: 230-D
Phone: (619) 644-7298
E-Mail: Randall.Tweed@gcccd.edu
Information for Dr. Tweed's GSO members.
Information for Dr. Tweed's Music Theory Students.
Information for Dr. Tweed's GMC members.
Information for Dr. Tweed's Voice Class Students
Mezzo-Soprano Sarah-Nicole Carter has been hailed by the L.A. Times as "simply wonderful",
San Diego Story as a fiery mezzo-soprano who added verve and vibrant color, and
by the Salt Lake Tribune as having a "velvety alto".
In 2025, Sarah-Nicole will perform in L'enfant et les sortil癡ges with San Diego Symphony, debut the role of Public Opinion in Orpheus in the Underworld with Opera a la Carte San Diego, sing the orchestral premiere of A Long Trip with North Coast Symphony, premiere new operatic works with Del Mar Composer's Symposium
(DMICS), and attend the Baroque Opera Workshop at Queen's College with Julianne Baird
and Drew Minter, singing Penelope in Monteverdi's Il ritorno d'Ulisse in patria and Venus in Il ballo delle ingrate.
A frequent collaborator with San Diego Opera, Sarah-Nicole originated the role of
2nd Frida in the 2022 premiere and 2018 workshop of El 繳ltimo sue簽o de Frida y Diego, written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Nilo Cruz and Latin GRAMMY簧 Award-winning
composer Gabriela Lena Frank. She recently sang Suor Dolcina in Suor Angelica, Mezzo in a two woman opera called Ascension, Giovanna in Rigoletto, Kate in Pirates of Penzance, and as a soloist in multiple concerts with the company.
Other recent performances include The Monitor in Suor Angelica and a role debut as Quickly in Falstaff with Lyric Opera of Orange County. In the summer of 2023 she performed Miss Shingle
in A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder and Mrs. Bedwin in Oliver at Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theater. In 2022 she was seen as Ma Moss in The Tender Land, Third Lady in The Magic Flute, and the Housekeeper in The Man of La Mancha with Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theater and Priscilla in Graceland and The Woman (older) in A Long Trip with the Del Mar Composers Symposium.
In the spring of 2022 Sarah-Nicole took part in a special performance in support of
Peace, Dignity, and Democracy at the historic Spreckels Organ Pavilion in San Diego.
Over $15,000 in donations were received to provide humanitarian relief for Ukrainian
refugees in partnership with San Diego Civic Organist Ra繳l Prieto Ram穩rez, the Spreckels
Organ Society, the San Diego Diplomacy Council, and Forever Balboa Park. She was also
featured in an interview with KPBS on the impact of the Pandemic on performing artists.
Notable performances have included the alto solos in Haydns Lord Nelson Mass with La Jolla Symphony and Chorus, Berta in The Barber of Seville with Teatro Lirico DEuropa, the alto solos in Beethovens Ninth Symphony at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion with the San Diego Master Chorale, and Spreckels
Organ Society, Zerlina in Don Giovanni and Flora in La Traviata with the FF Collective, Berta in The Barber of Seville and Jacks Mom in Into the Woods at Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theater.
Sarah-Nicole made her debut at the Kennedy Center performing La Lettre du jardini癡re by Marcel-Lucien Tournier and has performed as a soloist in concert with Opera Saratoga,
Bach Collegium San Diego, Eureka Symphony, La Jolla Symphony, The Spreckels Organ
Society, Musica Vitale, the Los Angeles Conducting Institute, San Diego Master Chorale,
San Diego Festival Chorus, Loveland Opera, Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theater,
Center Chorale & Escondido Choral Arts, and 91勛圖厙 Symphony Orchestra.
A specialist in comedic roles, Sarah-Nicole studied improvisation at the UCB Training
Center and The Groundlings Theater & School. She is a staff singer, schola section
leader, and Assistant Director of the Choristers program at The Mission Basilica in
San Juan Capistrano. Sarah-Nicole is currently pursuing a DMA in Historical Performance
Practice at Claremont Graduate University where she is a Performance Forum Teaching
Assistant and Blaisdell Fellow. In the fall of 2025 she will join the faculty at 91勛圖厙
College teaching voice and Performance Studies. Visit her website at www.snrcarter.com
or find her on Instagram @mobcapmezzo.