Performing Arts Alumni

Studying opera performance at University of Cincinnati, College Conservatory of Music
"As a music student and recent alumna of Ohio Wesleyan University, I attribute every educational and professional success in my career thus far to the faculty of the music department therein. OWU's phenomenal music faculty provides one-on-one instruction, individualized attention, and practical experiences that one would not receive elsewhere. I can say with absolute certainty that OWU's music department prepared me academically, musically, artistically, and personally for the next step in my career."

Graduate student at Bowling Green State University
"The friendly environment and supportive professors in the department of music motivated me and prepared me to continue my musical journey as a graduate student at Bowling Green State University. Ensembles including the Chamber Choir, Choral Art Society, Chamber Orchestra, Symphonic Wind Ensemble, and musical productions offered incredible, rich resources that have enabled me to become a mature musician. My professors were always accessible when I requested assistance with schoolwork. Students at OWU are passionate musicians and love to collaborate and learn. As an international student, I embraced the unity and friendship in the Department of Music. Ohio Wesleyan University was an excellent choice for me, and the school embraced me as a valued student. I enjoyed a positive and challenging educational experience at OWU."

Orchestra Director at School of the Chathams, Westfield, NJ
The Department of Music at Ohio Wesleyan has fundamentally shaped who I am as an educator and as a musician. Thanks to professors such as Dr. Griffin, Dr. Wasserman, Dr. Roden, and many others, I was able to perform with every group on campus and even lead the Wind Ensemble and Chamber Orchestra during my time as a student. I am now in my dream job as the Director of Orchestras in a top-five district in New Jersey and am performing regularly with acts all over the tri-state area.

Enrolled in Ohio State University College of Dentistry
"When selecting which undergraduate university to attend, I looked for a school that would allow me to pursue not only the discipline which would define my career path, but also permit the continuation and expansion of my passion for music. Ohio Wesleyan provided me this opportunity. While at OWU I majored in Music, Chemistry, and Pre-Dentistry, and was able to not only complete these degrees but also thrive within them. The experiences I received during my time in the music program shaped me as a musician, a student, and a professional, and the music department faculty were an integral part of making this happen. Thanks to the skills and connections I cultivated during my time at OWU I am now completing my dental degree at the Ohio State University and continue to perform in various ensembles and venues during the majority of my available time."

Actor and Playwright, New York
Ryan Haddad's acclaimed solo play "Hi, Are You Single?," developed in Ohio Wesleyan's creative writing workshops, earned Ohio Wesleyan's 2015 Excellence in Performance Award and has since been performed in New York and across the country to sold-out audiences, with Huffington Post calling his performance "a stirring work of theater...that should and needs to be seen." He has a recurring role on the Netflix series "The Politician" with additional television appearances in "Bull," "Madam Secretary," and "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt." He has many stage credits in New York.

Choral Director, Dublin City Schools (Ohio)
"The small class sizes, personable and talented professors, amazing resources, and fantastic learning opportunities were just a few of the many reasons why making OWU my second home an easy decision. One of the highlights was traveling to Salzburg, Austria, with our choral director, Dr. Jason Hiester; I received private piano instruction from a world renowned pianist, and attended concerts by famous musicians each evening. It was a trip I'll never forget!"

Trumpet Instrumentalist in the U.S. Navy Fleet Bands
Master of Music, Temple University
"I am still reaping the benefits of the thinking and performing skills I developed as a Battling Bishop. The music department boasts wonderful faculty and excellent facilities. While students may not get many performing opportunities at other schools, I was playing in many groups at Ohio Wesleyan from the beginning of my studies. Even as a freshman trumpet player I was able to participate in the chamber orchestra, wind ensemble, jazz ensemble, large brass choir, and trumpet ensemble. Additionally, I had exposure to Central Ohio’s rich network of performing arts institutions, such as the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, Columbus Jazz Orchestra, ProMusica Chamber Orchestra, Central Ohio Symphony Orchestra, Newark-Granville Symphony Orchestra, etc. The faculty in all departments are extremely devoted to excellence in education as well as curating a challenging but supportive atmosphere. My work in the music department prepared me for my life after OWU, which included graduate studies, third prize in the 2015 National Trumpet Competition, and my work as trumpet instrumentalist in the U.S. Navy Fleet Bands."

Opera Performer, South Shore Opera Company and soloist and recitalist, Chicago
Master of Music, Vocal Performance, Roosevelt University
"While at OWU, I not only learned music and all of its fundamentals, but inherited the positive characteristics and integrity of being a successful operatic singer. I valued my professors and their wealth of knowledge they imparted to me. Having support and encouragement goes a long way, and I know I would have never received that had I not gone to OWU. During my educational experience at OWU, I was involved in the operas, set design, choir, The Park Avenue Jazz Band, Mu Phi Epsilon, and was a soloist with the OWU Chamber Orchestra. The opportunities I received at OWU have further propelled me into my music career."

Bass-Baritone with Metropolitan Opera, New York
"I chose OWU instead of a traditional conservatory because of many reasons. I wanted to experience college life but at the same time be able to refine my craft at the highest level. And OWU was one of the few places where I saw both of those options available. As a liberal arts school OWU was able to offer me a wonderful college experience and began preparing me for a career as a singer. I had no idea how far it would take me. I am currently singing full time at the Metropolitan Opera in NYC. The attention to detail that OWU provided has not only helped me on the stage, but in life as well. The support that was found in the music department made me more confident after I left to be creative and to push myself higher and faster. I am so lucky to have made it this far already, and am hoping to continue this success. I owe most of my gratitude to OWU."