Fine Arts

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.

91��Ƭ�� State University announces Concerto-Aria Competition winners

Desiree Kolb — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 22:32:22 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University announces Concerto-Aria Competition winners

Desiree Kolb Thu, 12/04/2025 - 16:32

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University has announced soprano Ember Geist and clarinetist Alexander Trujillo as winners of the 2025-26 Concerto-Aria Competition, following an evening of outstanding performances by student musicians.

Geist, a member of the class of 2027 from Roscoe, South Dakota, is a student of Dr. Darci Bultema. She earned top honors with her performance of “Il bacio” by Luigi Adritti.

Trujillo, a member of the class of 2028 from Rapid City, South Dakota, studies clarinet with Dr. Audrey Miller. He was recognized for his performance of “Pink Ribbon for Susan” by composer Christopher Stanichar.

Trumpeter Axton Johnson received honorable mention in this year’s competition.

Event organizers noted that the outside panel of judges was highly impressed with the quality of 91��Ƭ�� State University student performances and faced a difficult decision in selecting winners from a particularly strong pool of candidates. As expressed by the judges and organizers, all participating students should feel proud of their performances, and many kudos were extended to both students and faculty for the high level of preparation and artistry displayed at the contest performance.

This year’s judges were Dr. Efraín Amaya of Minot State University and Dr. Anne Nash of Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota.

As winners of the Concerto-Aria Competition, Geist and Trujillo will appear as soloists with the Aberdeen University/Civic Symphony on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in Jewett Auditorium on the 91��Ƭ�� State University campus.

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

NSU Art Gallery presents ‘birdhaus’ exhibition in Gallery X

Desiree Kolb — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 16:24:18 +0000

NSU Art Gallery presents ‘birdhaus’ exhibition in Gallery X

Desiree Kolb Wed, 12/03/2025 - 10:24

ABERDEEN, S.D. – The 91��Ƭ�� State University Art Gallery is pleased to present “birdhaus,” a collaborative student exhibition now on view in Gallery X in the Johnson Fine Arts Center.

“birdhaus” focuses on bird species native to northeastern South Dakota. As a collaboration between sculpture and graphic design students, participants were paired together and challenged to create a birdhouse, an informational poster and a tangible item representative of a single bird species. The project was conceptualized by Assistant Professor of 3D Media and Art Galleries Director Tim Rickett and Assistant Professor of Graphic Design and Art History and Department Coordinator Epiphany Knedler.

The inspiration for “birdhaus” came from a unique project at the School of Visual Arts in New York City called Barkitecture. That temporary installation on Madison Avenue features photos of dogs alongside doghouses inspired by their names and breeds. With that model in mind—but focusing instead on the diverse bird species native to northeastern South Dakota—Rickett and Knedler developed “birdhaus.”

The exhibition’s title is a play on the traditional birdhouse as well as a nod to the Bauhaus, an influential art and design movement and school in early twentieth-century Germany. The project also highlights collaboration across disciplines, which is often overlooked, particularly between these two distinct mediums.

“Part of what I really enjoyed about the ‘birdhaus’ project was the amount of research we had to do for whichever bird we were working with,” said studio art junior Leo Beckler. “I think it allowed us to create more conceptual and overall fun sculptures instead of the basic things people usually think of when they think of a birdhouse.”

Students included in the exhibition are Leo Beckler, Hayden Erdmann, Alicia Gedge, Maddy Haak, Lawson Hansen, Emily Jensen, Aly Lang, Heqing Lin, Karli Olson, Delaynie Parker, Daria Poor, Taylor Speidel, Lexus Tjeerdsma, Taylor Tool and Ksenia Unser.

“birdhaus” will be on view through Feb. 20, 2026, in Gallery X in the Johnson Fine Arts Center.

For more information or questions, contact Epiphany Knedler at Epiphany.Knedler@91��Ƭ��.edu

91��Ƭ�� State University Winter Choral Concert set for Dec. 4

Desiree Kolb — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 21:13:11 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University Winter Choral Concert set for Dec. 4

Desiree Kolb Wed, 11/26/2025 - 15:13

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University will present its annual Winter Choral Concert at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at First Presbyterian Church, 318 S. Kline St.

The performance will feature the 91��Ƭ�� State University Concert Choir, Chamber Singers and Early Musick Ensemble under the direction of Dr. Timothy Woods.

The concert will open with the Concert Choir performing a South African piece that incorporates light choreography. The choir’s set will conclude with works from Mongolia and Scandinavia.

The Chamber Singers will follow with two of the “North Country Folk Songs” and a major work by composer Eric Whitacre.

The Early Musick Ensemble will present four pieces from the late 16th century, leading into the seasonal portion of the program. That portion will begin with two works the Chamber Singers will also perform at this year’s Christmas on the Prairie concert: Christ the Appletree by Scriven and O Magnum Mysterium by Hawley.

The Concert Choir will close the evening with a John Rutter piece celebrating food, the other setting of In the Bleak Midwinter, and Jeff Haskell’s arrangement of O Holy Night, featuring the seniors in the choir as soloists.

The event is free and open to the public, though donations will be accepted for the music scholarship fund.

The concert will also be livestreamed at facebook.com/MusicNSU/.

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

91��Ƭ�� State University Hosts Statewide Art Conference

Desiree Kolb — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 19:46:26 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University Hosts Statewide Art Conference

Desiree Kolb Fri, 11/14/2025 - 13:46

ABERDEEN, S.D. – The 91��Ƭ�� State University Art Department hosted the 2025 South Dakota Art Education Association + South Dakota College Art Association State Conference Oct. 9–11 on campus.

The event welcomed around 100 art professionals and educators from across the state. More than 30 lectures and workshops focused on art techniques, concepts and pedagogy.

The keynote presentation was given by Mural On The Wall (OTW), a community-based mural team from Vermillion, South Dakota. The group’s core members, Amber Hansen and Reyna Hernandez, have collaborated since 2019 and have facilitated several mural projects in rural communities. Mural OTW works with community members to create murals that capture the essence of the communities where they are installed. Meetings are open to the public, and participation is encouraged.

Learn more about OTW’s work here.

Visiting Artists

The conference also hosted visiting artists Eli Kessler, Byron Banasiak, and John Banasiak through lectures and exhibitions.

Looking More or Less Like Some Thing is a solo exhibition by Eli Kessler in JFAC Gallery on view through December 15, 2025. The show features new sculptures exploring materials, processes and forms that connect past and contemporary art. Kessler, an associate professor of sculpture and expanded media at Kent State University, earned a BFA from Tyler School of Art at Temple University and an MFA from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Below the Sun and Moon: Days and Nights in South Dakota is a collaborative exhibition by Byron Banasiak and John Banasiak in Gallery X in the Johnson Fine Art Center. Byron Banasiak is a travel photographer and documentary filmmaker who serves as chief photographer and videographer for the South Dakota Department of Tourism. His work has been featured in the Governor’s Biennial Art Exhibition and in a solo exhibition at the Washington Pavilion.
John Banasiak studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and teaches photography at the University of South Dakota. His work is held in the collections of the Walker Art Center, the South Dakota Art Museum and others.

Thank you to the NSU Foundation, the SOFA Friends of the Arts, South Dakota Art Education Association, and Dacotah Bank for their support. For more information about this and other art events, contact 91��Ƭ�� State University School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497, or visit 91��Ƭ��.edu/artsnsu.

Photo courtesy of Maggie Kruger

91��Ƭ�� State University Bands to Present ‘Discovery’ Concert

Desiree Kolb — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 22:03:32 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University Bands to Present ‘Discovery’ Concert

Desiree Kolb Fri, 11/07/2025 - 16:03

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University bands will present “Discovery” at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, in the Johnson Fine Arts Center’s Jewett Theater.

The concert will feature performances by the Symphonic Band, directed by Dr. Audrey Miller, and the Concert Band, directed by Dr. Travis Netzer. The Symphonic Band will perform works by David Maslanka, Eric Whitacre, Erika Svanoe and John Mackey. The Concert Band will perform works by Richard Strauss, Julius Fucik, Claude Debussy, Steve Danyew and Randall Standridge.

All 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. 91��Ƭ�� students will be admitted free.

The concert will also be livestreamed on the NSU Music Department Facebook page.

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

Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony to Perform ‘Autumn Romance’ Concert Nov. 22

Desiree Kolb — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 21:35:01 +0000

Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony to Perform ‘Autumn Romance’ Concert Nov. 22

Desiree Kolb Tue, 11/04/2025 - 15:35

ABERDEEN, S.D. – The Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony invites the public to a concert steeped in sweeping Romantic beauty at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 22 at 91��Ƭ�� State University’s Johnson Fine Arts Center Jewett Theater.

Christopher Stanichar, director of the AUCS and NSU associate professor of music, will lead the orchestra. The concert, titled “Autumn Romance,” features the dreamy elegance of Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake,” along with one of the most beloved piano concertos ever written: Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 18. The performance will feature Aberdeen pianist Anne-Marie Giffin as soloist, whose artistry and deep connection to the community will make this concert a highlight of the season.

Celebrating its 106th season, the AUCS is the oldest continuous orchestra in South Dakota, attracting musicians from Minnesota, North Dakota, Iowa and the surrounding region. Stanichar is the 17th conductor of the orchestra.

Tickets for the Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony are general admission and available at the door. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and NSU faculty and staff; students are admitted free. Payment is by cash or check only—no debit or credit cards will be accepted, and there are no advance or online sales.

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

NSU Jazz Concert set for Oct. 23

Desiree Kolb — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 15:57:35 +0000

NSU Jazz Concert set for Oct. 23

Desiree Kolb Tue, 10/21/2025 - 10:57

ABERDEEN, S.D. — On Thursday, Oct. 23, at 7:30 p.m., the 91��Ƭ�� State University Music Department will present a jazz concert featuring 91��Ƭ��’s 2 p.m. Jazz Ensemble, directed by Dr. Grant Manhart. The concert will take place in the Jewett Theater at the Johnson Fine Arts Center.

There will be an engaging mix of classic and contemporary jazz charts by James Curnow, Stan Kenton, Herbie Hancock, and others.

Admission is free and open to the public.

The concert will be livestreamed on the NSU Music Department Facebook page at facebook.com/MusicNSU.