Audition Request | Scholarship Information | Why Witt?

Wittenberg students come from about 40 different states and 30 foreign countries. And Wittenberg has more Ohio Professors of the Year than any university in the state.

A Wittenberg music major can lead to many paths. You might want to read about these careers in music. Students choose Wittenberg for many different reasons. Here are some thoughts from some of our music majors:

Elaina Vimmerstedt, class of 2016

I am from Grandview Heights, Ohio, a suburb of Columbus. I went to Grandview Heights High School, where I was able to participate in many wonderful musical groups both through my school and community. Through my school, I participated in concert band and marching band for four years. I participated in jazz band and Grandview Singers, our high school’s varsity choral ensemble, for three years. I also played in the pit orchestra for our annual musicals for three years. Through the incredible music community in Columbus, I was able to take voice lessons for four years, play in the Columbus Youth Symphonic Band for one season, and play with my band Sweet Basil at various venues around the city.

Why Witt?  There were many factors that helped me decide that Witt was the right school for me. For one, my audition here was the best audition experience that I had ever had. For students who are going through the audition process, it is well known how nerve-racking this experience can be. The professors who heard my audition were warm and welcoming, and I even got to do a trial lesson with one of the music faculty members after my audition. I also sat in on a choir rehearsal near the end of my senior year, and I was pleasantly surprised at how easily I could picture myself singing in that group as a student at Witt. Last, but certainly not least, I fell in love with the beautiful campus and the rich heritage Wittenberg has to offer.

What next?  As far as plans after graduation go, it is still a bit early to tell…but I have a few ideas. After I have graduated, I may go to graduate school to acquire a masters in music education, or begin to use my undergraduate degree in music education right away and start teaching. In the distant future, I would love to earn a doctorate. Most of my childhood idols had doctorates, and it has always been a goal of mine to become “Dr. Vimmerstedt.”

Emily Rayens, class of 2016

I am from Lexington, Kentucky and I attended Lafayette Senior High School and the SCAPA (School for the Creative And Performing Arts) program. I was involved in the Lafayette “Pride of the Bluegrass” Marching Band as well as concert band. I also played in the school orchestra and the Central Kentucky Youth Orchestra. Finally, I played both flute and piano in the school musicals.

Why Witt?  I chose Wittenberg because when, the day before decisions were due and I was still deciding between Wittenberg and Wooster, I realized that I had liked the flute teacher and the music program much better at Witt. Also, the fact that I could be a dual-major and know that many others at Wittenberg had picked the same two! It made me feel very much at home on campus and comfortable in my academic decisions.

What next?  After I graduate, I will either go to graduate school or medical school, depending on how the next three-and-a-half years work out. I want to either be a doctor or play in an orchestra.

Jackie Burdwood, class of 2016

I am from Titusville, New Jersey, a moderately rural area next to the Delaware River. I attended Hopewell Valley Central High School and, during my time there, I was part of the symphonic band, orchestra, marching band, and percussion ensemble, and I played in the pit orchestra for the musicals Les Misérables, Bye Bye Birdie, and Crazy for You.

Why Witt?  I chose Wittenberg for several reasons, the first of which is that it is VERY far from my home. The school itself is a lot like my high school, but with friendlier people. And, of course, no one can argue with the fact that the campus is gorgeous. I had heard that the music program was very good and it has yet to disappoint! Every time I walk out of the music building after a lesson with Dr. Smarelli, I feel like my skills as a musician have improved from when I walked in and that I have a slightly better chance competing out in the musical world when my time at Wittenberg comes to an end.

What next?  My ultimate goal is to one day play the scores for movies, video games, television shows, and other types of media.

Isabell Fig, class of 2016

I’m from Laura, Ohio. It’s not an hour away from here. I went to Franklin Monroe High School. In high school I participated in concert band, jazz band, pep band, Solo and Ensemble competitions, District XI Honors Band, and attended the All-Ohio State Fair Band in Columbus.

Why Witt?  I chose Wittenberg because it’s a close community and resembled how my school/community back home was. Where I’m from there are usually less than sixty kids in a grade, so the closeness of this college was much more comfortable than a large one like Ohio State, etc.

What next?  After I graduate with my B.A. in music I am going to go to graduate school and get my masters in library science so that I can fulfill my dream of working in a library.

Madeline Kraft, class of 2016

I am from Cape Elizabeth, Maine and attended the local public high school. My high school didn’t having any string opportunities. There were, however, many opportunities within the local community. I was in the Southern Maine Youth Orchestra for all four years and participated in the Maine All State Festival for two out of the four years. I also played in a string quartet for two years during high school.

Why Witt?  I chose Wittenberg because I was looking for a school where I could comfortably double major in music and business, as well as swim competitively. This was my biggest challenge while searching for a school. My decision was really easy once I stepped onto Witt’s campus—I knew that it was the right place for me, it had the right feel and it made my decision for me!

What next?  I would love to enter the music business industry after Witt. That is what I plan to use my double major in music and business management for. I find that industry incredibly intriguing and would love to be a part of it at some point in the future! As for music I don’t think I will ever stop playing. It has been in my life for so many years that it is part of my lifestyle and I can’t even imagine my life without music. As for now, though, I am enjoying my time at Wittenberg!

Hannah Hatch, class of 2016

I am from Lancaster, Ohio, a town that is about 30 minutes south of Columbus. I attended Bloom-Carroll High School, where I was involved in music activities at school, and in the community. At my school, I was involved in Chamber Singers, marching band (field commander), concert band and the jazz band for all four years of my high school career. I was also involved in the musicals we did every other year such as: Seussical the Musical and Once Upon a Mattress. Through the community I was involved in the Lancaster Community Band and I also took flute, saxophone and voice lessons.

Why Witt?  I chose Wittenberg because it had exactly what I was looking for in a school, especially the size! Coming from a small high school, I wanted to stay in the same atmosphere, with a small campus and small class sizes. I knew a big school wouldn’t be the right place for me. I also chose Wittenberg because when I came for a visit and for my audition, I felt at home and I wasn’t nervous like I was at other schools. That was a key factor in my decision. I had to feel at home!

What next?  After I graduate, I would like to either continue my education and get my Masters or Doctorates degree in music. If I don't do this right out of college I would like to start using my Music Education degree and start teaching in the schools. No matter what I do though, someday I want to teach others about music and pass my Wittenberg light on to others.

Greg Brice, class of 2016

I’m from Germantown, Maryland. I graduated from Northwest High School, and while at Northwest I participated in Marching Band, Brass Ensemble, Concert & Symphonic Band, Chamber Choir, Men’s Ensemble, Pit Orchestra, and Combined Orchestra (Winds, Strings, & Percussion).

Why Witt?  I chose Wittenberg for many reasons. I wanted an opportunity to experience new things, in a new environment. I also chose Wittenberg because of the beauty and warmth I felt when I first toured the campus, which gave me a feeling of safety, as if Witt was my second home. Lastly, I chose Wittenberg because I felt welcomed, I felt that I could interact and connect on a deeper level than any other university I could have attended.

What next?  After graduation, I have no clue what I want to do. Each day at Witt’s music department I learn about new things I can do after graduation, so I just cannot decide what to do. Maybe I will do them all! With time as the limiting factor, however, whatever I do after graduation it will be the music professors at Wittenberg who helped me with my first steps toward reaching that future.

Niki Lambert, class of 2015

I am from Lancaster, Ohio, where I attended Bloom-Carroll High School. I was involved in symphonic band, chamber choir, jazz band, marching band, and Winterguard (color guard competition).

Why Witt?  I originally heard about Wittenberg from a band teacher. I chose Wittenberg for the family feel it provided. Everyone always seemed ready to help everyone else when I was on my visit. I also loved the faculty I met during my audition at the music department.

What next?  After graduation, I haven’t fully decided what to do, but I want to go to graduate school for either music therapy or continued music education. After that, I plan to join the Peace Corps.

Bethany MacMillan, class of 2015

I am from Brunswick, Ohio. I attended Brunswick High School and graduated in 2011. In high school, I was a part of the Mixed Symphonic Choir where I was the Senior Conductor. I was also in the concert choir, Bravo!, sang in Show Choir, participated in musicals, and was a member of the school’s Color Guard.

Why Witt?  My audition for the music scholarship was my first visit to campus. After I auditioned, my grandmother and I toured campus. Everyone we passed either smiled, waved, or asked me how my day was--before they even knew me! Before we got in the car to go home, I stopped my grandmother and asked her, “Do you hear that?” Looking bewildered and confused she looked at me. “Wittenberg is calling my name.” Before I was accepted, or even received any scholarships, I knew Wittenberg University was the community and family for me. Wittenberg University was also one of the few places were I could be involved with more than just music as a music major. It allows me to be part of a sorority, join groups, and take classes outside of the music building, which could be extremely difficult at other universities. To me, it is important to keep my eyes open to areas outside of music, which is why Wittenberg’s liberal arts education was a perfect choice for my interests.

What next?  After graduation I plan to teach choir for middle school. I love their fluctuating hormones and attitudes which make class all the more fun. Music is my passion, and education is my love. Following the University’s motto, I hope to pass my light on to others.

Alicen Tisch, class of 2015

I am from Fairfield, Ohio, a suburban city near Cincinnati, and I attended Fairfield High School. My school district has an excellent music program and I was lucky enough to be able to participate in myriad musical activities: I auditioned and was accepted into my high school’s top orchestra, participated in yearly district and regional honors orchestras, played in pit orchestra, joined Tri-M (a music honor society), played in a local youth orchestra, competed in state orchestra contest, participated in solo and ensemble competitions, and played in a local quartet. At the end of my senior year, I was able to perform with members of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra when they came to my high school to give a community concert.

Why Witt?  I chose to attend Wittenberg University for several reasons. When I was looking at schools, I knew I wanted to find a college that was smaller and more personal, and Wittenberg meets those criteria. Moreover, I found that Wittenberg has a very strong liberal arts program, which is evident in everything the university strives for. At Wittenberg, students are required to take courses from a variety of departments, and this liberal arts appreciation turns students into open-minded, conscientious adults. I came to Wittenberg because I wanted a holistic education that would prepare me for life after school, and I’m certainly getting that.

What next?  My plans for after graduation are, at best, still rather nebulous. In addition to music, I’m also pursuing a major in English. I’m interested in beginning a writing career, whether it is freelance, creative, analytical, or otherwise. I am still unsure where that will take me, but there are lots of opportunities for literary careers involving music and I plan to spend some time thoroughly investigating options I may be interested in.

Alexa Konowal, class of 2015

I’m from Canton, Ohio, and I have been homeschooled since first grade. As a homeschooler, I didn’t often have opportunities for affordable extracurricular activities thrown at me, and most of the music ensembles in my area were run by public schools and open to their students only. In my sophomore year of high school, however, I joined the Stark County Homeschool Band on trumpet, and jumped from the beginner class to the advanced class just a year later. Eventually, I began learning trombone as well. As a senior, I participated in a local competition as a trumpeter for a brass quintet. I also sang with my church’s choir as an alto.

Why Witt?  I came to Wittenberg because I was impressed by what I heard about faculty-student interactions. As someone used to being very close with her teachers (one of them was my mom, after all), I wanted a school where my instructors were accessible and invested in my education—where I felt like I mattered, like the teacher genuinely wanted to know what I was thinking. I definitely found that here! One of the things about Wittenberg that still impresses me is how many open offices I pass on my way to class, with teachers and students conversing inside.

What next?  I plan to attend graduate school for music therapy. Later, I would love to work in a hospital with children, or in a hospice facility with the terminally ill, or maybe even in a nursing home with seniors—I haven’t decided yet, and there are so many possibilities!

Sara Zinn, class of 2015

I am from Springfield, Ohio. I attended Shawnee High School and participated in Women’s Choir, Symphonic Choir, Madrigals, and Orchestra.

Why Witt?  I chose Wittenberg because I was drawn to the liberal arts education this institution offers. I also chose Wittenberg because of their music program! I had heard so much about it and how wonderful all the music professors were and how successful the choir had been, and I knew I had to check it out.

What next?  After graduation I would love to attend graduate school, and then obtain my doctorate and become a college professor!

Tyler Bly, class of 2015

I come from Fort Wayne, Indiana. I went to Homestead High School, which is well known for its music department. During high school I was involved with everything music that I could be: I marched with band, playing both trumpet and mellophone all four years. I was also in both concert band and symphonic band. On top of that, I was in jazz ensemble. Occasionally, I took part in orchestra when the parts called for it. I also participated in pep band and even back-up band for show choir! I was very involved with music during high school!!

Why Witt?  Now why Wittenberg? Well, I had a couple friends that went here that I marched with in high school, so I decided to check it out. Plus, one of my marching instructors graduated from here in 2005. When I first visited I just loved the atmosphere. Small classes are great! Also, the music department is very good. Not too often do you find a well pronounced music department at a small school. That's when I knew I was going to choose Witt!

What next?  After graduation, I have two possible directions. Since I am dual majoring in music and computer science, my goal is to get into the field of music technology and/or music production. I’m hoping to get a job with Sweetwater Sound, which is a studio that’s internationally known and is based out of my hometown, Fort Wayne. My goal, if I cannot get into Sweetwater right away, is to begin working for my cousin who is a computer specialist/tech and at the same time head to grad school for Music Technology, most likely at Ball State University!

Joy Carter, class of 2015

I am from Beavercreek, Ohio, a suburb of Dayton. I went to Beavercreek High School, where I participated in many musical activities such as the varsity choir, Beavercreek A Capella Choir, and show choir. In the instrumental world I was a color guard member of the Beavercreek High School Marching Band and Color Guard for three years and a baritone player for one year. I also participated in the Symphonic band on euphonium, Winter Guard, and school musicals. I was also blessed with the opportunity to perform at various OMEA solo competitions and participate in voice and piano lessons through my school.

Why Witt?  There were many contributing factors as to why I chose Wittenberg over other universities. The main reason, I believe, had to do with the faculty I was able to meet on my first tour. To them, I was not just “potential student #6253”; I was Joy Carter, an individual with unique educational dreams and aspirations. The people here took the time to know me, and even remembered my name when I returned for another visit. The music faculty, in particular, were very interested in me as a person, not just a head to fill in a class. It was that personal touch that convinced me that Wittenberg was the right choice for me.

What next?  After graduating, I hope to either teach general music at the elementary school level or continue on to grad school and either obtain a masters in music education or voice performance, depending on how these next two and a half years go.

Katie Lyle, class of 2015

I am from Mount Gilead, Ohio, a small, rural town about an hour north of Columbus, and I attended Mount Gilead High School. During high school, I was a member of the concert band, marching band, pep band, and jazz band, where I played the flute, piccolo, and saxophone. During my senior year, I was also awarded the opportunity to lead the marching band onto the field as a drum major. I was active in the District X Honor Band, received many excellent and superior ratings in District X Solo and Ensemble Contests, and was able to compete in the Bands of America Grand National Championships both my junior and senior year.

Why Witt?  I chose Wittenberg because as soon as I stepped foot on campus, I knew I would fit in here. Because I come from such a small town, I knew that I wouldn’t be able to find my place at a large school. Here at Witt, I have been able to discover who I am as a person, find my passion for music, and become a member of a life-long family.

What next?  Upon graduation, I plan on attending graduate school in order to obtain a degree in music therapy. I hope one day to be able to work in the terminal illness wing of Children’s Hospital, providing support and positive outlets to the children and their families through the uplifting power of music.

Sean McCullough, class of 2015

I am from Lawrenceville, Georgia. I attended Hebron Christian Academy, and I was involved in a praise band with guitar, keyboard, and vocals. I also performed in a symphonic band, played guitar and piano for my church services, took voice lessons, and wrote and recorded a lot of music with a band.

Why Witt?  I chose Wittenberg because, believe it or not, I missed Ohio. I used to live in Dayton, and I decided it would be great to come back up.

What next?  I am thinking about still continuing to play music at churches, and I also want to keep writing and recording. But for my “job,” I want to go into the publication industry and become an editor, while at the same time taking courses to earn a masters and doctorate in English composition and rhetoric so that I can teach at a college.

Ben Holbrook, class of 2014

I am from Alliance, Ohio, where I went to Alliance High School. During my high school years, I was involved in the annual spring musical, the orchestra, jazz band, and the Choralaires mixed choir. I participated in Solo and Ensemble competitions every year for both voice and ’cello performance. Musicals I participated in include Krazy for You, Cats, and Jekyll & Hyde.

Why Witt?  I chose Wittenberg because I knew I needed a small liberal arts college to fully meet my needs in the classroom. I also knew that, because it is a smaller program, the music classrooms could be more inclusive and give me the personal attention I needed to grow as a musician. The campus’s beauty only solidified my decision to attend.

What next?  After graduating from Wittenberg, I plan to attend graduate school and pursue a Ph.D. in musicology or sociomusicology.

Danielle O’Neill, class of 2014

I am from Canal Winchester, a suburb of Columbus. I attended Groveport Madison High School, where I participated in Select Ensemble Choir, Gospel Choir, and Chamber Choir. In Select Ensemble, we performed at Solo and Ensemble (we went AA and received a I). Our Select Ensemble had the honor of being chosen to perform in the Ohio Capital Conference Honors Choir, under the direction of Dr. Lynda Hasseler. I was also in several musicals and plays including The Wiz and The Butler Did It, Singing!

Why Witt?  I chose to attend Wittenberg for many reasons! The first is the fact that it offers a liberal arts education. Through Wittenberg, you have the ability to find your passion in many different fields and it helps you to become a well-rounded person. I also felt that the Music Department could really help me grow as a musician and further develop my musical skills. We have an amazing faculty and many people who are willing to go the extra mile to help you! Also, how can someone not like our scenic view?

What next?  I would love to have a career in both music and theatre professionally. I am planning on going to graduate school for vocal performance. Ideally, I would like to further explore my favorite genres of music further in graduate school, which is musical theatre and opera.

Kailey Coulter, class of 2014

I am from Grove City, Ohio, and I attended Grove City High School. I was involved with choir all four years and was also a member of “Class Act,” one of our show choirs. I received multiple superior ratings at the OMEA Solo & Ensemble Contest and participated in the OMEA All-State Choir my junior and senior year along with the Ohio Capital Conference Honors Choir. I was also involved in the theatre department and participated in shows such as Little Shop of Horrors, Thoroughly Modern Millie, and Into the Woods.

Why Witt?  I chose Wittenberg because I was interested in pursuing music at a smaller school where I could also study political science, and Wittenberg has given me the opportunity to do just that. I was also drawn to Wittenberg because of its beautiful campus and the excellent professors I met on visit days who still remember my name.

What next?  I’m not quite sure what direction my life will take me in after graduation, but I am considering a Ph.D. in political science and possibly attending law school.

Tyler Wyche, class of 2014

I am from Columbus, Ohio where I attended Groveport Madison High School. In high school, I was involved in our Concert Choir for all four years, a part of the Chamber Choir for 3 years, and a member of the Select Ensemble for 2 years. I also was very involved with the musicals at our school beginning my junior year. I played the Tin Man in my first musical, The Wiz, and played Father White in the musical The Butler Did It, Singing.

Why Witt?  All throughout high school, I had it set in my mind that I wanted to go to a relatively small school. I had nothing against schools like Ohio State or the University of Cincinnati, however, I just knew that I would really enjoy being a part of a much more intimate classroom experience as opposed to sitting in 100+ person lecture halls. I heard about Wittenberg during my junior year and saw that it was a liberal arts school. I researched it a little more and saw that it was also Lutheran-affiliated which assisted my decision. When I came to Wittenberg for a visit, I immediately fell in love with the campus. Everything about the campus was beautiful, the faculty and staff that I met were super friendly, and my fellow prospective students were all really cool to get to know. It also helped that Wittenberg had given me as much financial aid as they did. After my visits to the campus, the decision was pretty easy to make, though.

What next?  After graduation I would love to go straight into teaching. I have learned a ton of great information, teaching tools, and techniques in relation to music education. Although it hasn’t been a goal of mine forever, I've been determined to go out and spread the knowledge of how and why music is so powerful in a school somewhere. I also hope at some point to be able to perform. Whether it be on a big stage like the Chicago Lyric Opera or Broadway, or if it’s just a small gig here and there, I want to have the chance to share my performance talents with others.

Andrew Bowen, class of 2013

My home is in northeast Georgia, in Gainesville, where I graduated from Chestatee High School in 2010. My high school choral program afforded me many opportunities including I Cantori, Fellowship of Christian Athletes Praise Team, and the competition men’s quartet, as well as statewide ensembles including All-State Mixed Choir, Men’s Choir, Sight Reading Choir, and District Honor Choir.

Why Witt?  I chose Wittenberg for its beautiful campus aesthetic and the unique experience of attending a liberal arts college, with a rigorous and eclectic course curriculum. Wittenberg also allows for an incredible amount of one-on-one instruction, which has been and is immensely important for me to have as a student.

What next?  After graduating, I hope to pursue a career in music via radio broadcasting or secondary-level education, or enroll in a graduate-level program in music.

Kristina Sharpe, class of 2013

I am from Indianapolis, Indiana, which is about two hours away from Springfield. I attended Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School. In high school I played the flute in the wind ensemble for four years, and played piano and flute in symphony orchestra for two years. I also participated in the Indiana State School Music Association contest all four years, entering in solo and ensemble events on piano and flute. I have been playing the piano and the flute in church since my freshman year of high school. I spent at least an hour a week volunteering at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis, where I played the piano for patients and their families.

Why Witt? When applying for college, the first thing I looked for was if the school had a good music program because I was interested in majoring in music performance. I visited Wittenberg towards the end of my junior year during a music workshop, and found the instructors to be very personable and professional. I also enjoyed the campus scenery on my shadow date, and decided Wittenberg had the gentle atmosphere where I could improve my musical abilities and grow into a skillful musician.

What next? As a freshman, it’s hard to narrow down my course of action after graduation; however, I know that I want to become a musician and perform worldwide. I’m also considering writing my own songs to perform. My realistic course of action is to go to graduate school and get an advanced music degree after receiving an undergraduate degree in music at Wittenberg.

Heepke Wendroth, class of 2013

I grew up in a small town in Germany, but I have lived in Lexington, Kentucky, for the past five years. I attended Lafayette High School, where I was a member of the School for the Creative and Performing Arts as a piano major, sang in the choir, performed in school musicals, played in chamber music ensembles, and accompanied my siblings and friends. In the summer of 2008, I participated in the Kentucky Governor’s School of Arts, a three-week long arts program. I really enjoyed teaching piano to two children for a year and a half.

Why Witt? My decision to come to Wittenberg University was based on its outstanding music and science programs. The education provided here will help me succeed in my field of study and prepare me with the essentials to become a well-rounded individual—in my career and in society. The faculty, staff, and administration fully support all of their students and help them achieve their dreams in a close-knit community and beautiful campus setting.

What next? After graduation, I would like to go to medical school to study ophthalmology or optometry. I am hoping to continue making music, perhaps by teaching music lessons on the side or playing in a chamber group.

Caitlan Valley, class of 2013

I am from Springfield, Ohio. I attended Shawnee High School, where I participated in Symphonic Choir (we went AA to state and received a II), Madrigals (a select ensemble), Orchestra (violin, upright bass, cello), Marching Band (bass drum), several musicals (Guys and Dolls, Pajama Game, The Wizard of Oz), Solo & Ensemble for voice (received a I), and performed at Carnegie Hall with Kirby Shaw conducting.

Why Witt? I wanted to be able to broaden my studies while still focusing on music. Wittenberg offered me that and more, what with its beautiful campus, friendly students, amazing faculty, and infinite opportunities.

What next? I plan on pursuing graduate school, most likely for something music related.

 
 
Click here to see students previously featured in “Why Wittenberg?”