College of the Arts News

Hear from Courtney Smith about her pivot to the arts program, her passion for the Black arts scene, interning at the Alan Avery Art Company and her dream career in the arts.

On October 2, the award-winning group Take 6 returns to the Rialto Center in Downtown Atlanta with their distinctive blend of gospel, jazz, R&B, and pop.

Demetri Burke (B.F.A. ’20) created the mural inside the University Club at Edgewood, showcasing scenes and symbols from across elements of the university’s collective identity.

The Georgia State University School of Music is expanding its community this fall with seven new part-time faculty members: jazz vocalist Lauren "LAVAHI" Highsmith, violist Dr. Kathryn Schmidt Steely, double bassist Adam Bernstein, percussionists Joe Petrasek and Caleb Herron, jazz guitarist Paul Fischer and collaborative pianist Hyun Hwa Jang. Together they bring world-class performance credentials, award-winning pedagogy and deep Atlanta roots to the GSU community.

The College of the Arts at Georgia State University is pleased to introduce its new cohort of arts faculty whose work identifies them as experts in their respective fields, from music and the visual arts to filmmaking and more.

T. Devin Reid has held both positions on an interim basis since June 2025, and the appointment makes his leadership permanent.

Award-winning conductor Dr. Nicholas Han joins the Georgia State University School of Music as Interim Director of Orchestras beginning August 2026. A first-place winner at the LA Conducting Workshop and Competition, Aspen Music Festival Conducting Fellow and newly minted Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of Georgia, Dr. Han brings a clear vision for purposeful ensemble music-making, balanced programming and concrete career preparation to GSU's orchestra program.

Collaborative pianists are the musical partners behind nearly every performance that isn't a solo. Georgia State's School of Music is launching a Master of Music, led by Taylor Flowers, built to train them.

Collaborative pianist, vocal coach and researcher Dr. Taylor Flowers joins Georgia State's collaborative piano faculty as Lecturer beginning August 2026. Coming from Hillsdale College and the University of Michigan, Dr. Flowers brings an international performance profile and a 2026 George Shirley Collaborative Pianist Award to Georgia State, where he will also help launch a new Master of Music in Collaborative Piano set to welcome its first students in fall 2027.

Acclaimed audio engineer and Atlanta Business Chronicle "40 Under 40" honoree Daniela Rivera joins the Georgia State University music industry faculty as Professor of Practice beginning August 2026. With over 40 billion streams, credits alongside Rihanna, Justin Bieber and Coldplay, and a 2025 Avidity Award for Best Mixing Engineer, Rivera brings unmatched real-world expertise to Georgia State's growing music industry program.

Georgia State’s Panther Band performed for fans from around the world at FIFA FanFest in Centennial Olympic Park, where Jasmine Muñoz (B.A. ’25, M.A. ’26) and fellow band members reflected on music, community and representing the university in the heart of Atlanta.

Peter Huesemann-Odom’s (M.F.A. '24) architectural model of downtown Atlanta, showcasing Georgia State’s footprint within the city, is now on display in the university’s main administrative building, Centennial Hall.

As voting members, they'll be among the creators who help select Grammy winners each year.

Dr. Isiah Maxey joins the Georgia State University choral faculty as Lecturer and Associate Director of Choirs beginning August 2026. A scholar-conductor who views the rehearsal space as a site of collective inquiry, Dr. Maxey brings award-winning teaching, socially engaged programming and nationally presented research to Georgia State's choral program.

Georgia State University's Welch School of Art & Design is a statewide training ground for art educators with an intensive for new and aspiring art teachers.

Veteran tenor, stage director and voice teacher Mark Lubas joins the Georgia State University opera faculty as Assistant Professor of Voice and Opera and Director of GSU Opera Theater beginning August 2026. With nearly three decades of professional experience spanning the Kennedy Center, Boston Lyric Opera and Opera Fort Collins, Lubas brings exceptional depth to Georgia State's growing opera program.

Internationally acclaimed cellist Dr. Gabriel Prynn joins the Georgia State University cello faculty as Lecturer of Music beginning August 2026. A founding member of Trio Fibonacci and recognized performer and educator, Dr. Prynn brings a distinguished career in solo and chamber music, scholarly research and a deeply student-centered teaching philosophy to Georgia State.

Eric D. Jones (B.F.A. '15) credits his Georgia State connections with helping to grow his business, which recently was selected to help design parts of the Atlanta airport's "Gates to Goals" campaign.

Do you know what happens when students from different majors put their heads together for a project? The answer is "Miseducated."

After being rejected from the School of Music four times, Georgia State graduate Cornell Stokes persevered to earn his music education degree and pursue his dream of becoming a band director.

The publication marks a significant contribution to the fields of early modern art history and Renaissance studies, offering fresh perspectives on one of the discipline's long-standing debates: How did the Catholic Reformation reshape the role of art?

From storyboarding commercials to designing immersive cinematic worlds, School of Film, Media & Theatre alumnus Christopher Glass (B.A. '96) shares insights on collaboration, creative challenges and the power of practical filmmaking.

Georgia State University's Panther Band has been selected to perform at the FIFA Fan Festival™ at Centennial Olympic Park this summer, joining a lineup of nationally recognized artists as Atlanta takes center stage for the FIFA World Cup.

The Georgia State University Student Film Festival (GSUSFF) returned to the Rialto Center for the Arts on Friday, May 8, celebrating the creative work of student filmmakers from Georgia State University’s School of Film, Media & Theatre.

In the landscape of modern television, few periods have been as transformative or as turbulent as the era of Peak TV. For Dr. Kate Fortmueller, co-author of “Boom to Bust: The Rise and Fall of Peak TV,” the explosion of content production over the past decade has not only reshaped the industry but also redefined what it means to teach, research and participate in media culture.

"Where Being Takes Root" centers the artistic vision, mentorship and lasting cultural influence of acclaimed artist Larry M. Walker, a former director of the Ernest G. Welch School of Art & Design.

After earning both a Master of Music and an Artist Certificate in Vocal Performance from Georgia State, Flynn Allen reflects on mentorship, artistic growth and finding community through opera.

Garrett Clay’s journey at Georgia State shaped his voice as both a conductor and educator. As he graduates, he looks ahead to inspiring the next generation through music.

Discover the journey of Atlanta filmmaker Raye Rivera (M.F.A. '26), whose passion shapes every frame.

From acting on stage to joining curtain calls, Kai Chisholm (B.I.S '26) has enjoyed every moment at Georgia State University. Meet Kai in this article and learn about the actor, writer and friend you will want on your trivia team.

Laila Atkins (B.M. '26) was drawn to the Georgia State School of Music both by its location and its opportunities.

Dr. Patrick Freer becomes the first School of Music faculty member at Georgia State to be named a Distinguished University Professor, recognizing his national leadership and lasting impact on music education.

The annual awards honor outstanding College of the Arts faculty and staff for their accomplishments and contributions to student success and elevating the arts at Georgia State University and beyond.

A student mural project expands beyond campus with an 80-foot installation in South Downtown, just steps from Mercedes-Benz Stadium. It's set to take center stage before a global audience as the World Cup arrives this summer.

“Chadwick,” released on April 24, is a music video produced and directed by Heath Franklin, Professor of Practice in the School of Film, Media & Theatre.

As a graduate student at Georgia State University, Madison Tiegreen (M.Mu. '26) found both a sense of independence and community in the School of Music.

Originally from Colombia, Camilo Ayala (M.Mu. '26) came to Georgia State to pursue a master’s degree in euphonium performance. Through solo performances, original compositions and collaborative experiences, he has built a foundation for a career in performance, teaching and artistic leadership.

Ben Longo (M.Mu. '26), a Georgia State voice performance graduate student, has built a strong foundation at the School of Music and is now taking the next step in his career. This summer he'll join Seagle Music Colony as an emerging artist, continuing his path into the professional opera world.

After more than 25 years at Georgia State, Prof. Tania Maxwell Clements closes a remarkable chapter of teaching, performance, and leadership—leaving a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the broader Atlanta music community.

Nearly 60 College of the Arts undergraduate students present artistry and research at the 2026 Georgia State Undergraduate Research Conference (GSURC).

Born in Honduras and raised in Georgia, Christofer Sanchez found his path through music early on. At Georgia State, he refined that passion through collaboration, performance and production — preparing to graduate with a degree in music production and audio recording and a clear vision for what comes next.

MFA candidate Eden Scroggins’ textile artwork from donated socks with holes to damaged scraps of clothing and upholstery resonates with the judges at the 4th Annual Graduate Conference for Research, Scholarship & Creative Activity and wins a Sustainability Award in the Artistic Display.

After first seeing the Panther Band perform at the Rose Bowl on television, Israel La Fleur knew Georgia State was where he belonged. Four years later, the music education major, tuba player and two-year drum major prepares to graduate having led on the field, in the classroom and within the band community. Now, he’s ready to spark that same passion for the next generation of musicians.

Arie’una Long, a Georgia State University senior, has been named the 2026 Presser Scholar, recognizing her leadership, academic excellence and impact on the School of Music community.

Led by music education major Emily Bridges, "re:Percussions" will unite university and community musicians for an innovative concert featuring found percussion and the world premiere of a new work by Georgia State alumnus Marcus Moore (B.M. '19).

Hera Trio, a new faculty ensemble at Georgia State University’s School of Music, commissions and performs works by women composers while expanding the chamber music repertoire.

From starring in every GSU opera production to winning the 2025 Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition, mezzo-soprano Madison Chambers has built an impressive record of performance and achievement during her time at Georgia State. As she prepares to continue her studies at the master’s level, she reflects on the mentors, roles and experiences that shaped her journey.

From composition lessons to the conductor’s podium, Ahmad Duncan shares how community, collaboration and creative confidence defined his experience at Georgia State as he prepares for graduation.

NY-based artist Dave McKenzie is the featured guest artist for the 2026 Ferrer Visiting Artist Program. The micro-residency will be highlighted by an artist talk on March 31 at the Kopleff Recital Hall.

The School of Film, Media & Theatre’s upcoming production, "Shakespeare Night Live," inspired by William Shakespeare, opens Thursday, Feb. 26.

Anastasia Wilson, Assistant Professor of Performance, in the School of Film, Media & Theatre, attended and presented at the 22nd NIPAI Performing Arts Conference at Laubegg Castle, Austria, hosted by New International Performing Arts Institute (NIPAI). This nationally recognized conference brings together theatre artists, directors, dancers, choreographers, circus artists, movement and drama teachers, researchers and producers from around the world who want to learn more about their crafts.

The Georgia State University Panther Band has been selected as a featured marching band in the 2026 Southern Division review of the College Band Directors National Association, marking the fourth time the ensemble has earned this regional distinction.

The Georgia State School of Music announces the winners of the 2025 Brumby Concerto and Aria Competition. Selected from a highly competitive field, the winners will be featured as soloists with the Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Wind Ensemble during Spring 2026 performances.

Researchers at Georgia State University are harnessing the power of music to help patients recover after stroke.

For Corey Couch (M.A. '18, Ph.D. '25), earning a Ph.D. is "about gathering people and resources to take with me into life as I continue to work towards various goals: personal, political and communal." Along the way, Corey has built a community to read with, watch movies with, and hang out with. Read more below.

Nearly 40 years after completing her first bachelor's degree, Gail McFarland (B.A. '17, M.A. '19, Ph.D. '25) returned to school through the GSU-62 program. Her work extends the conversation about race, representation and cinematic possibility.

Isaac Breiding (B.A. '25) has spent his life exploring what a camera can do. Now graduating from Georgia State’s School of Film, Media & Theatre, he’s channeling that curiosity into making theater more accessible.

From international competitions to major ensemble stages at Georgia State, trumpet graduate Rodrigo Borges González (M.Mu. '25) has built an impressive foundation for a professional career.

School of Film, Media & Theatre alumnus Timothy Richardson (M.A. ’21) is rapidly advancing his career, earning acclaim as both an actor and cinematographer—an artistic duality rarely seen in today’s film industry.

Dr. Stuart Gerber is a recipient of a GSU internal faculty grant to produce a new recording project, “Hazy Moonlight: New Works for Saxophone and Percussion.” The funding is made possible through the Office of Research Development, a unit of University Research Services & Administration.

Music student Morgan Lett, known as “Little Aretha,” is rapidly pursuing her dream of becoming an R&B/Pop star. Her vocals are described as soulful, raw, and emotionally charged. Read about Lett's curated singing journey on stage and in the studio.

The production of "Harmony of Freedom" brought together a diverse network of professionals, faculty, alumni and students from Georgia State University to produce this multimedia documentary.

Georgia State alumnus Jonathan Kocik (B.M. ’16, M.M. ’19) composed "With Courage Unyielding" to honor Professor Devin Reid’s 10 years of leadership within the GSU band area. Commissioned by Kappa Kappa Psi’s Nu Alpha Chapter, the fanfare reflects Reid’s spirit and musicianship through bold themes, personal details and even subtle nods to his favorite films and percussion sounds. The piece will receive its world premiere on Nov. 18, performed by the Georgia State Wind Orchestra during "A Celebration to Remember" at the Rialto Center for the Arts.

The Music Industry program has kicked off the fall with a packed September—bringing students together for seminars, workshops, and fireside chats with industry leaders like Maureen “Ma Dukes” Yancey, Sean Garrett, and Fiona Bloom. And the momentum is just getting started. With major performances, guest speakers, and showcases on the horizon in October and November, MTM continues to expand its impact on campus and throughout Atlanta’s music scene.

Professor Tania Maxwell Clements of Georgia State University’s School of Music has received the 2025 Atlanta Federation of Musicians Educator Award. The honor recognizes her exceptional contributions as a performer, educator and director of the Campus Orchestra.

Two Georgia State University School of Music faculty members have been named candidates for national leadership positions with the National Association for Music Education (NAfME). Dr. Patrick Freer, Professor of Music and Coordinator of Music Education, is a candidate for NAfME National President-Elect, while Dr. Matthew Koperniak, part-time instructor of music education, has been nominated for Southern Division President-Elect.

liquid blackness, founded by Georgia State Distinguished University Professor of Moving Image Studies Alessandra Raengo, has been awarded a three-year grant of $750,000 from the Mellon Foundation to support the study of aesthetic practices in the contemporary arts of the Black diaspora. 

Jazz alumnus Nathanael Smith is currently on tour as the pianist with the Glenn Miller Orchestra. Hear Smith talk about joining and the big band, on-the-road tour action, GSU mentors and more.

The Goat Farm’s mega-art event "Site 25" is back! Among the 40+ art activations, the one-night-only contemporary art festival will feature over a dozen GSU-affiliated artists throughout the Goat Farm’s 12-acre campus.

The College of the Arts welcomes its new cohort of outstanding faculty from the Ernest G. Welch School of Art & Design, School of Film, Media & Theatre and School of Music, whose work identifies them as expert scholars and practitioners in their respective fields.

Graphic design student Michelle Alltine recaps her experience at the highly competitive Home Depot summer internship program with insights about her project, lessons learned, and honing her UX (user experience) design skills with the retail giant’s internal digital interface.

Ensemble ATL’s 2025/2026 season brings two captivating programs to Kopleff Recital Hall: a celebration of British and French musical heritage in Entente Cordiale: A Cordial Agreement (Sept. 15) and a rare reconstruction of Brahms’ Serenade No. 1 for nonet, complete with historical insights from Dr. Marie Sumner Lott (Jan. 12). Both concerts are free and open to the public.

Dr. Charles “Chuck” Jackson has been named Associate Director of the Georgia State School of Music. A GSU alumnus and experienced music educator, Jackson will oversee undergraduate affairs, recruitment, curriculum and assessment.

The School of Film, Media & Theatre welcomes a new screenwriting lecturer! Meet Kevin Douglas Del Principe. Read on to learn more about Kevin's background, teaching interests and a few fun facts.

The School of Film, Media & Theatre connected with one of our newest faculty members, Allison Schifani.

Get set for an exciting line-up of the 2025-2026 Rialto Season featuring Rialto favorites and new genres including country and contemporary Christian artists and more.

The School of Film, Media & Theatre proudly hosted the 2025 Console-ing Passions conference in Atlanta.

Georgia State film and media graduate Christopher Hamilton (B.A. '23) helped bring DC Studios’ "Superman" to the big screen after launching his career at the Creative Media Industries Institute.

Conductor Henry Cheng joins Georgia State University as Interim Director of Orchestras this fall, leading the GSU Symphony and conducting studio while Dr. Tamara Dworetz is on leave. An internationally acclaimed conductor and GSU alum, Cheng brings a bold artistic vision shaped by global experience and community engagement.

Georgia State School of Music announces a key leadership transition in its athletic band program, welcoming Lawrence Williams as Assistant Director of Bands and expanding the role of longtime faculty member T. Devin Reid as Interim Director of Athletic Bands and Associate Director of Bands.

Each year, the faculty of the School of Film, Media & Theatre reviews the efforts of its students and faculty and selects winners of the FMT Awards.

Georgia State’s Harrower Summer Opera Workshop celebrates 40 years of training emerging operatic talent. Founded by Peter and Irene Harrower in 1980, the program has launched over 800 artists and welcomed guests like Sherrill Milnes, Frederica von Stade, and Jennifer Rowley. Now led by alum Andrew Ryker, the Workshop continues its legacy of excellence.

The annual awards honor outstanding College of the Arts faculty and staff for their accomplishments and contributions to student success and elevating the arts at Georgia State University and beyond.

Professor Craig Drennen of the Ernest G. Welch School of Art & Design is awarded a Distinguished University Professorship, Georgia State University’s highest institutional-level faculty rank, which recognizes faculty for their sustained and outstanding record in scholarship and instruction.

Georgia State’s Master of Music in Conducting (Low-Residency) is designed for working educators ready to grow artistically and professionally—without stepping away from their ensembles. With fully online coursework during the academic year and an immersive, in-person summer session, students gain hands-on experience, mentorship from nationally recognized faculty, and access to the acclaimed Atlanta Summer Conducting Institute.

Jennifer Barker will lead the School of Film, Media & Theatre as its new director, effective July 1. She assumes the leadership position from the current director, Ethan Tussey, who will transition to the College of the Arts as associate dean.

With the 2025 Spring Commencement week upon us, the School of Film, Media & Theatre connects with Deena Ramadan, an M.F.A. film candidate, about why she chose GSU's film program, her dream career, her thesis film, and her plans moving forward.

Since joining the master’s program two years ago, Blair Lipham’s soprano rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” has become a familiar voice at numerous university functions.

The School of Music is pleased to welcome Dr. Serena Scibelli as Assistant Professor of Violin starting in fall 2025. An internationally acclaimed violinist and educator, Dr. Scibelli brings extensive performance experience and a passion for music education. She will lead the violin studio, focusing on mentorship and preparing students for successful careers in the global music industry.

The School of Music is excited to welcome Jessica Petrasek as a full-time faculty member in the flute studio. With an extensive performance background and a commitment to fostering both musical and intellectual growth in her students, Jessica is eager to continue her work at GSU.

Dr. Deanna Joseph, Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities, has been appointed to the Chris and Aileen Valianos Endowed Professorship in Music.

As graduate candidate Jackson Allred completes his master’s degree in orchestral conducting, he has one final project to finish at Georgia State: an ambitious multimedia documentary titled “Harmony of Freedom” that commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act and pays tribute to the civil rights movement through the power of symphonic music.

Georgia State's MTM Standard will host its 3rd Annual Sync Meetup on April 12–13, 2025, in the School of Music’s Florence Kopleff Recital Hall. Featuring panels, workshops, and networking sessions with top music supervisors, the event highlights opportunities in sync licensing for film, TV, games, and more. Supported by the College of the Arts and leading industry partners, this event connects students, artists, and professionals working at the intersection of music and media.

The Georgia State University Singers made history with their first-ever live performance at the ACDA National Conference in Dallas, Texas, delivering two concerts at the Meyerson Symphony Hall and Winspear Opera House. Under the direction of Dr. Deanna Joseph, the ensemble earned standing ovations for their moving program, "Music of Longing & Hope," which featured a special appearance by composer Joel Thompson.

The College of the Arts has announced Ethan Tussey, director of the School of Film, Media & Theatre, has been named the college’s associate dean, effective July 1.

Multisensory artist Cheyenne Hendrickson (Photo and Extended Media focus) presents her M.F.A. thesis exhibition “Auscultation” -- an experiential exhibition anchored in research and exploration through an artist residency last fall.

The College of the Arts has announced that Julia Bullard will lead the School of Music as its new director, effective July 1. She brings a wealth of experience and passion for music education, and will shape the future of the program.

Susan Richmond will transition from her role as interim associate dean of the College of the Arts to lead the School of Art & Design, effective July 1.

Georgia State School of Music and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra continue to strengthen their relationship through "Panthers at the Symphony", masterclasses, and student performances. With GSU faculty, students, and alumni actively engaging with the ASO, this collaboration provides invaluable professional experiences and enhances artistic development.

GSU voice faculty member Talise Trevigne recently made her stunning debut with the New York Philharmonic, performing under the baton of Nathalie Stutzmann to critical acclaim. She then returned to Atlanta to headline the Nancy Frampton Young Artist Series benefit concert, sharing the stage with fellow GSU faculty Richard Clement and Jonathan Crutchfield, alongside opera stars Jamie Barton and Indra Thomas.