Fine Arts

NSU Art Department Presents Second Round of Spring Senior Exhibitions Now Open Through May 8

Chad Hatzenbuhler — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:07:04 +0000

NSU Art Department Presents Second Round of Spring Senior Exhibitions Now Open Through May 8 Chad Hatzenbuhler Tue, 04/21/2026 - 08:07

ABERDEEN, S.D. — 91��Ƭ�� State University's Art Department and Art Galleries are currently presenting a second round of spring senior exhibitions, on view through Thursday, May 8, in the Johnson Fine Arts Center Gallery and Gallery X on the NSU campus in Aberdeen.

The exhibitions — April Olson's Multiplicity of Her, Diane Mamgue Tassa's Beneath Patterns and Rico Imus's Banyuhay — feature three graduating seniors whose work explores identity, transformation and cultural memory through a range of mediums and personal perspectives.

Banyuhay, a Filipino term for metamorphosis and change, centers on Rico Imus's exploration of transformation as a constant and necessary part of survival. Shaped by his early experiences growing up in an orphanage and finding stability in nature, particularly through observing insects, Imus translates personal growth into sculpture that resists a sense of completion. Working primarily with paper, he highlights its fragility and strength as a mirror for human resilience.

Multiplicity of Her explores the many forms of self that exist within each woman. April Olson works across photography, digital collage and projection, drawing influence from artists Frida Kahlo and Nadia Waheed. Her work reflects an internal struggle with identity and celebrates the beauty that comes from accepting and embracing every version of oneself.

Beneath Patterns investigates how visual patterns function as a language of identity, memory and cultural storytelling. Diane Mamgue Tassa draws inspiration from African textiles to explore how patterns move beyond decoration to become systems that shape how identity is seen, expressed and protected. Working through photography, digital layering and mixed media, her compositions merge the body with patterned environments and reflect the tension between visibility and concealment. Influenced by artists Bisa Butler and Thandiwe Muriu, Tassa's work emphasizes presence, dignity and visual harmony.

A public reception for all three exhibitions will take place Friday, May 8, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Johnson Fine Arts Center Galleries, located at 1200 S. Jay St., Aberdeen.

The galleries are free and open to the public. For more information, contact Art Department Coordinator Professor Epiphany Knedler at epiphany.knedler@91��Ƭ��.edu.

91��Ƭ�� State University to Present First 2026 Spring Senior Exhibitions

Chad Hatzenbuhler — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 14:37:34 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University to Present First 2026 Spring Senior Exhibitions Chad Hatzenbuhler Fri, 04/10/2026 - 09:37

ABERDEEN, S.D. — 91��Ƭ�� State University's Art Department and Art Galleries are currently presenting the first round of its Spring 2026 Senior Exhibitions, on view through April 17 in the Johnson Fine Arts Center Gallery and Gallery X.

The exhibitions feature This Space Has Potential by Aly Lang, Simple Living by Daria Poor and Marginalia by Ksenia Unser.

Lang's This Space Has Potential examines the meaning and visual impact of everyday printed materials that are often thrown away or ignored. Using items such as advertisements, packaging, postcards and receipts, the work highlights how these objects serve as records of changing design trends, consumer habits and cultural values.

In Simple Living, Poor reflects on family, gratitude and the rural Midwest through a series of painted portraits inspired by family photographs. Her work honors the people, memories and landscapes that have shaped her life and perspective.

Unser's Marginalia explores anxiety and the idea of pre-nostalgia, capturing the emotional pull of moments that feel meaningful even before they have passed. The exhibition includes photographs taken with an old point-and-shoot camera and digital collages created from pieces of her personal writing archives. Through cinematic and documentary-inspired approaches, the work conveys a sense of bittersweet reflection.

A public reception celebrating the exhibitions will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 17, in the Johnson Fine Arts Center Galleries at 91��Ƭ�� State University, 1200 S. Jay St., Aberdeen.

For more information, contact Art Department Coordinator Professor Epiphany Knedler at epiphany.knedler@91��Ƭ��.edu.

NSU Symphonic Band and Concert Band to Present "Band Extravaganza"

Chad Hatzenbuhler — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 14:10:30 +0000

NSU Symphonic Band and Concert Band to Present "Band Extravaganza"

Chad Hatzenbuhler Wed, 04/08/2026 - 09:10

ABERDEEN, S.D. — The 91��Ƭ�� State University Symphonic Band and Concert Band will present "Band Extravaganza" at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 19, in the Jewett Theater at the Johnson Fine Arts Center.

The concert will feature performances by the NSU Symphonic Band, directed by Terry Beckler, with works by John Philip Sousa, Frank Ticheli and Johan de Meij. The Concert Band, directed by Travis Netzer, will perform works by Robert Russell Bennett, David Holsinger and Leonard Bernstein.

The concert serves as the final performance of the academic year for both bands and is free and open to the public.

For more information, visit 91��Ƭ��.edu/artsnsu or contact the 91��Ƭ�� State University School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497.

Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony to Present "Cathedrals of Sound" Concert April 25

Chad Hatzenbuhler — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 21:50:50 +0000

Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony to Present "Cathedrals of Sound" Concert April 25 Chad Hatzenbuhler Tue, 04/07/2026 - 16:50

ABERDEEN, S.D. — The Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony invites the community to the season finale of its 2025-26 season at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 25, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1620 Milwaukee Ave. NE, Aberdeen.

Christopher Stanichar, director of the Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony and associate professor of music at 91��Ƭ�� State University, will lead the orchestra in "Cathedrals of Sound," a program designed to fill the church sanctuary with sweeping, large-scale works.

The concert will feature guest artist Marilyn Schempp performing Camille Saint-Saëns' Symphony No. 3, "Organ," showcasing the church's Holtkamp organ. The orchestra will also be joined by NSU choirs under the direction of Timothy Woods for a performance of Gabriel Fauré's Requiem in D Minor, Op. 48. The program will include a new composition by NSU music student Connor Knigge.

Celebrating its 106th season, the Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony is the oldest continuous orchestra in South Dakota, drawing musicians from Minnesota, North Dakota, Iowa and the surrounding region. Stanichar serves as the orchestra's 17th conductor.

The concert is free and open to the public. Donations to the Friends of the Arts/NSU are welcome. The performance will be livestreamed on the 91��Ƭ�� State University Music Department Facebook page.

For more information, contact the 91��Ƭ�� State University School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497 or visit 91��Ƭ��.edu/artsnsu.

91��Ƭ�� State University Opera & Theatre to Present “Lovestruck & Saddle Sore: Tall Tales in Song”

Chad Hatzenbuhler — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:49:55 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University Opera & Theatre to Present “Lovestruck & Saddle Sore: Tall Tales in Song”

Chad Hatzenbuhler Thu, 03/26/2026 - 11:49

ABERDEEN, S.D. — 91��Ƭ�� State University Opera & Theatre will present “Lovestruck & Saddle Sore: Tall Tales in Song” on Friday, April 17 and Saturday, April 18, 2026. Both performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Black Box Theater of the Johnson Fine Arts Center on the 91��Ƭ�� State University campus.

The production will take audiences on a musical journey through the American frontier, blending humor, heart and a little theatrical adventure along the way. The evening will feature selections from well-known musicals with western themes, including Annie Get Your Gun, Oklahoma! and The Most Happy Fella.

The second half of the program will spotlight Sweet Betsy from Pike, a comic chamber opera centered on a strong-willed pioneer woman whose journey through the Gold Rush is filled with determination, romance and larger-than-life challenges.

With a mix of familiar musical favorites and spirited storytelling, “Lovestruck & Saddle Sore” captures the romance, comedy and character of life in the Old West.

The production is directed by 91��Ƭ�� State University professors of music Darci Bultema, Marla Fogderud and Michael Skyles. Pianists for the performance are Kay Fischer and Peggy Vieth.

Student performers include Clara Kelm, Ember Geist, Isaac Johnson, Taye Cundiff, Miranda Myers, Stephen Rowenhorst, Alexis Schwagel, Cadance Tullis, Olivia Vogt and Gavin Wollman.

Tickets will be available for purchase before each performance. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for seniors, faculty and staff. Students of all ages may attend free of charge.

For more information, contact the School of Fine Arts Office at 605-626-2497

91��Ƭ�� State University Announces Awards for 2026 McQuillen Creative Group Annual Juried Student Art Exhibition

Desiree Kolb — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 21:15:30 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University Announces Awards for 2026 McQuillen Creative Group Annual Juried Student Art Exhibition

Desiree Kolb Thu, 03/19/2026 - 16:15

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University has announced the award recipients for the 2026 McQuillen Creative Group Annual Juried Student Art Exhibition, an annual showcase celebrating student creativity and achievement in the visual arts.

Presented by 91��Ƭ�� State University’s Art Department and Art Galleries, the exhibition is held each year in Gallery X in the Johnson Fine Arts Center and highlights the work of student artists from across campus. In addition to showcasing student artwork, the exhibition recognizes outstanding pieces through a juried awards process led by a professional from the regional art community.

This year’s exhibition was juried by Liz Heeren, director of Ipso Gallery in Sioux Falls and a lecturer at the University of South Dakota. Awards were announced during a reception held March 6, 2026.

This year’s award recipients include:

First Place: Taylor Speidel
Second Place: Daria Poor
Third Place: Alicia Gedge
Honorable Mention: Rico Imus, Aly Lang and Riley Vraniak
President’s Award: Riley Vraniak
Provost’s Award: Taylor Speidel and Stephen Jewett Jr.
McQuillen Creative Group Award: Leo Beckler
NSU Foundation Award: Katie Kruger
Gallery Purchase Award: Ksenia Unser
Midwest Nice Art Award: Lawson Hansen
Faculty Merit Award: Emily Jensen
Salon des Refusés Best of Show: Ella Tuschen

Students whose work is featured in the exhibition are Anna Bain, Leo Beckler, Jensen Eckart, Alicia Gedge, Madelyn Haak, Lawson Hansen, Abigail Himmerich, Rico Imus, Emily Jensen, Stephen Jewett Jr., Katie Kruger, Maggie Kruger, Aly Lang, Heqiang Lin, Elias Londahl, Diane Mamgue Tassa, April Olson, Karli Olson, Delaynie Parker, Daria Poor, Kadence Rausch-Frank, Taylor Speidel, Jessel Stengel, Ella Tuschen, Ksenia Unser and Riley Vraniak.

The McQuillen Creative Group Annual Juried Student Art Exhibition will remain on view in Gallery X in the Johnson Fine Arts Center through March 27, 2026.

For more information, contact the School of Fine Arts Office at 605-626-2497.

91��Ƭ�� State University Music Department, Bethlehem Lutheran Church to Present 16th Annual Bach’s Lunch

Desiree Kolb — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:24:01 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University Music Department, Bethlehem Lutheran Church to Present 16th Annual Bach’s Lunch

Desiree Kolb Thu, 03/19/2026 - 09:24

ABERDEEN, S.D. – Bethlehem Lutheran Church and the 91��Ƭ�� State University Music Department will present the 16th Annual Bach’s Lunch at 12 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in the sanctuary at Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

The annual concert honors the 341st birthday of Johann Sebastian Bach and will feature keyboard, instrumental and choral works by the renowned composer. Following the concert, attendees are invited to stay for a fellowship lunch. There is no cost to attend.

The program will feature the 91��Ƭ�� State University Chamber Singers, along with performances by Dr. Allan Jacobson, Dr. Travis Netzer, students Emma Arp, Dylan Blair and Angel Olivo Porcayo, recent graduate Hannah Gasperich, Dr. William Wieland, and friend of the department Stuart Davidson.

Selections on the program will include Bach’s Prelude and Fugue in D minor, BWV 851; Fantasia in G minor, BWV 542; Toccata in D minor, BWV 565; “Air on a G String,” BWV 1068; Prelude to Cello Suite No. 4, BWV 1010; Prelude to Cello Suite No. 2, BWV 1008; Bourrée II from English Suite No. 2, BWV 807; “Sicut locutus est” from Magnificat, BWV 243; and Ich lasse dich nicht, BWV Anh. 159.

Members of the 91��Ƭ�� State University Chamber Singers include:

Sopranos: Anna Bisbee, Columbia; Ember Geist, Roscoe; Carmen Huber, Aberdeen; Clara Kelm, Flandreau; Miranda Myers, Hartford; Everett Pitlick, Pierre; Cadance Tullis, Groton; and Cassie Webb, Aberdeen.

Altos: Emma Arp, Custer; Whitney Axtell, Mitchell; Abbigail Garrett, Webster; Anizye Grode, Streeter, N.D.; Kathryn Steger, Aberdeen; Devin Thielen, Volga; Olivia Vogt, Canby, Minn.; and Alanna Wiedrich, Roscoe.

Tenors: Brayden Cambier, Tea; Taye Cundiff, Aberdeen; Calcifera Fletcher, Aberdeen; Eli Houdyshell, Pierre; Angel Olivo Porcayo, Huron; Gerrit Peck, Sioux Falls; and Gavin Wollman, Mina.

Basses: Brody Hampl, Hastings, Minn.; Elijah Jackson, Spearfish; Isaac Johnson, Brandon; Ian Liebe, Milbank; Xavier Louis, Pierre; and Stephen Rowenhorst, Redfield.

For more information, contact the School of Fine Arts Office at 605-626-2497.

Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony to Present “Level Up” Pops Concert Feb. 28

Desiree Kolb — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:46:21 +0000

Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony to Present “Level Up” Pops Concert Feb. 28

Desiree Kolb Mon, 02/23/2026 - 16:46

ABERDEEN, S.D. – The Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony invites the community to the middle concert of its 2025-26 season at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 28 in the Johnson Fine Arts Center Jewett Theater at 91��Ƭ�� State University. A pre-concert conversation is also scheduled from 6:45 to 7:15 p.m. in the Johnson Fine Arts Center Berggren Recital Hall.

Christopher Stanichar, director of the Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony, will lead the orchestra. The concert, titled Level Up: An Epic Video Games Pops Concert, will transport the audience into the worlds of Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, World of Witchcraft and more.

Video game music has become a cultural phenomenon, captivating generations with epic themes and unforgettable melodies. By bringing this repertoire to the concert hall, the orchestra honors its artistry while inviting new audiences into the symphonic tradition.

The concert will also feature performances by student winners of this year’s 91��Ƭ�� State University Concerto/Aria Competition: Ember Geist, soprano, and Axton Johnson, trumpet.

Geist will sing Luigi Arditi’s “Il Bacio.” She is a junior at 91��Ƭ�� State University majoring in music education with a minor in musical theatre. She has been involved in musical theatre productions including The Sound of Music, where she played Sister Berthe. She is also involved in ensembles including Concert Choir, Chamber Singers and Early Music Ensemble. Geist studies with Dr. Darci Bultema, professor of voice at 91��Ƭ�� State University.

Johnson is a sophomore at 91��Ƭ�� State University majoring in music education. He performs in major instrumental ensembles, including the Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony, Symphonic Band and Jazz Ensemble. He also serves as a NAfME mentor, AUCS student representative and fine arts senator for 91��Ƭ�� State University’s Student Government Association. Johnson studies with Dr. Grant Manhart, professor of trumpet at 91��Ƭ�� State University.

The concert will also feature the winner of the orchestra’s inaugural Battle for the Baton fundraising competition, where either Dan Cleberg or Travis Schaunaman will step to the podium and conduct a selection during the concert.

Celebrating its 106th season, the Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony is the oldest continuous orchestra in South Dakota, attracting musicians from Minnesota, North Dakota, Iowa and the surrounding area. Stanichar, assistant professor of music at 91��Ƭ�� State University, is the orchestra’s 17th conductor.

Ticket Information

All Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony tickets are general admission and will be available at the door. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and 91��Ƭ�� State University faculty and staff. All students will be admitted free. The concert will be livestreamed on the 91��Ƭ�� State University Music Department Facebook page.

For more information, contact the 91��Ƭ�� State University School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497 or visit 91��Ƭ��.edu/artsnsu.

91��Ƭ�� State University, Aberdeen Central bands to present “Symphonic Colors”

Desiree Kolb — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 20:09:00 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University, Aberdeen Central bands to present “Symphonic Colors”

Desiree Kolb Wed, 01/28/2026 - 14:09

ABERDEEN, S.D. – The 91��Ƭ�� State University Symphonic Band will team up with the Aberdeen Central High School Symphonic Band to present “Symphonic Colors” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, in the Jewett Theater at the Johnson Fine Arts Center.

The concert will feature performances by the 91��Ƭ�� State University Symphonic Band, directed by Terry Beckler, with works by James Hosay, Percy Aldridge Grainger and Jocelyn Hagen. The program will also include performances by the Aberdeen Central High School Symphonic Band, directed by Jeremy Schutter, with works by LeAndre Benton, Ruth Brittin and Harry Carroll. The two bands will conclude the concert with a side-by-side performance of works by Karl King and Katahj Copley.

The concert is free and open to the public.

For more information, visit 91��Ƭ��.edu/artsnsu or contact the 91��Ƭ�� State University School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497.

Three 91��Ƭ�� State University alumni honored with state music education awards

Desiree Kolb — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 22:52:53 +0000

Three 91��Ƭ�� State University alumni honored with state music education awards

Desiree Kolb Wed, 01/07/2026 - 16:52

ABERDEEN, S.D. – Three 91��Ƭ�� State University alumni were recently recognized by the South Dakota Music Education Association, with major statewide awards honoring their impact on music education.

SDMEA presented the Distinguished Service to Music Education Award to Sheri Holt, the Distinguished Administrator Award to Kent Knudson and the Outstanding Young Music Educator Award to Taylor Schweitzer.

“These prestigious awards are indicative of the excellence and creativity demonstrated by our music education graduates throughout the state, spanning generations of dedication,” said Dr. Kenneth Boulton, dean of the School of Fine Arts at 91��Ƭ�� State University.

Holt has dedicated more than 30 years to education, serving as an elementary teacher, reading specialist, elementary music teacher, general music teacher and high school and middle school vocal music director. She began her career in the Twin Cities, later taught in a small mountain community in Colorado and, since 2009, has taught music in South Dakota, first at Sioux Valley and now as choir and general music teacher at Mickelson Middle School in Brookings.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a liberal music minor and school music concentration from Concordia University, St. Paul, Minnesota, and completed her master’s degree in music education from 91��Ƭ�� State University in 2019. Holt and her husband, Ty, enjoy canoeing, archery and time with their blended family of eight children and ten grandchildren.

Knudson, a 91��Ƭ�� State University graduate with a double major in K-12 instrumental and vocal music, began his career as 9-12 band and 7-12 vocal director at Northwestern High School in Mellette, South Dakota, before serving as 7-12 music and theater director at West Lyon Community School District in Inwood, Iowa. He later worked as dean of students in the Summit School District and as assistant principal and activities director in the Canton School District, where he now serves as 6-12 principal.

He holds a master’s degree from the University of Sioux Falls and an educational specialist degree in leadership and administration. His honors include West Lyon District Educator of the Year, Sioux Falls Area KTWB Teacher of the Month, the University of Sioux Falls Servant Leader Award and the South Dakota Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association Friend of Athletics Award. He has served on the South Dakota High School Activities Association Music Advisory Committee and remains active in professional organizations. Knudson and his wife, Kamile, have two daughters, Finley and Maisey.

Schweitzer is in her sixth year of teaching music in South Dakota and serves as the K-12 vocal music teacher in Garretson, where she teaches K-5 general music, middle school choir and high school choir. She also teaches private piano, guitar, ukulele and voice lessons and is stepping into the role of assistant play director for the school district.

Before joining the Garretson School District, she taught elementary music in Lennox and at Longfellow Elementary in Mitchell. Schweitzer earned her bachelor’s degree from 91��Ƭ�� State University and recently completed a degree in music therapy, with plans to provide individualized music therapy sessions for students. She serves as SDMEA Elementary Honor Choir chair-elect and sings with the Spirit of Peace UCC church choir. Schweitzer and her husband, Jacob, welcomed their son, Grayson Owen, in January, and she credits her family, colleagues and the supportive Garretson School District for helping make this recognition possible.

For more information, contact the 91��Ƭ�� State University School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497.