ATLANTA — Madison Tiegreen (M.Mu. ’26) arrived at the Georgia State School of Music with a clear sense of purpose, even if the path itself was still unfolding. A native Atlantan, she describes herself as someone drawn to people, connection and the arts — an artist grounded as much in relationships as in sound.
“I’ve always felt called to make a difference in the world through music and creative work,” she said. “I’m always seeking alignment within myself, my work and the places I exist.”
That sense of alignment is what ultimately led her to the Georgia State University School of Music. The balance of a large, vibrant urban environment with a close-knit and relational community mirrored exactly what she was looking for: A place where she could grow, belong and be fully herself.
“There was a warmth here,” she said. “A sense of independence, but also a community that felt open and supportive.”
Music, for Tiegreen, has never been a question of if, but how. She sang in her first choir at age 3 and never stepped away. Even as other interests emerged, music remained the constant.
She began her undergraduate studies in choral music education, pairing it with a minor in religious studies that explored psychology and philosophy. That combination of practice and inquiry continues to shape her approach today as a graduate student in choral conducting. Her work is as much about human experience as it is about musical precision.
Throughout her time at Georgia State, one mentor has remained central: Professor and Director of Choral Activities Deanna Joseph.
“She has been integral to my growth as an individual and as a professional,” Tiegreen said. “I would not be who I am today without her.”
Still, Tiegreen is quick to expand that gratitude outward. “There are so many people here who have shown up for me. GSU is like a family to me.”
That sense of shared investment came to life in one of her most meaningful recent projects: a collaborative performance of Mendelssohn’s “Elijah.” Built entirely by volunteers — students across levels alongside professional musicians — the project became something larger than a performance.
“Everyone chose to be there,” she said. “There was a shared investment, and I found myself really valuing how to support that — how to cultivate environments where people truly feel connected to what we are creating.”
Her time at GSU has extended well beyond the podium. Tiegreen has served as a student ambassador, worked in recruitment and marketing, held leadership roles across the School of Music and the College of the Arts, and taught as an aural skills instructor. Each role, she said, has deepened her understanding of community.
As she prepares to graduate, Tiegreen is less focused on a single destination and more drawn to the possibilities ahead.
“I’m excited to keep growing and to see where I’m able to contribute in real spaces with real people,” she said. “That relational part of music is what energizes me. It’s where I feel most myself.”
For those just beginning their journey, her advice is simple but resonant: “Be brave enough to be yourself early on, even while you’re still figuring out what that means. Stay open, stay curious and don’t be afraid to step into things you didn’t expect.”