Music Students and Faculty Highlight
Toccoa Falls, Ga. (November 21, 2024) – Toccoa Falls College proudly showcases the exceptional talent of the faculty and students in our Music Department, where faith, collaborative learning, and the celebration of God-given gifts come together in powerful ways. Through diverse opportunities and experiences, students are equipped with the skills needed to excel in their future careers. Recently, the incredible talent at TFC has gained recognition both statewide and on the international stage, reflecting the department’s commitment to excellence.
Four TFC vocal music students participated in the Georgia National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) vocal competition in early November, including Aeryn Barrentine, Sarah Lushen, Emma Lee Miller, and Elias Rodriquez. In the category of Junior TTB Classical, Elias Rodriquez placed first and was given a monetary prize and the opportunity to sing in the final winner’s concert at the conclusion of the competition. In the category of Senior Treble Classical, Aeryn Barrentine placed third and was selected as an alternate for the masterclass presented by Roderick Dixson. TFC is proud to report that all four of these gifted students averaged within the 90% percentile in their scoring!
Accomplishments like these, grounded in God-given talents, are made possible through the dedication and hard work of TFC students, guided by the leadership and inspiration of our exceptional faculty. Most recently, Dr. You Ju Lee, Professor of Music, brought honor to Toccoa Falls College by representing us on the international stage in Vienna, Austria, this past October.
Dr. Lee reflects on the privilege of performing at the Franz Liszt Grand Hall, made possible by her successful debut concert at Ehrbar Saal in July. She shares that the experience was especially meaningful as a former TFC student traveled from Germany to join her for this unforgettable moment.
She goes on to express that playing at the prestigious Liszt Academy was, “a breathtaking experience in a full house…performing at such an esteemed venue was a long-term goal of mine. I am incredibly grateful to God for it… Sharing this story with my students will, I hope, inspire them as they prepare for their own future careers in music. I was honored to represent Toccoa Falls College as a faculty member from the U.S. on an international stage.”
Toccoa Falls College celebrates these talented performers and thanks them for sharing their remarkable gifts with our community and beyond. To discover more about the Music Department at TFC, visit tfc.edu/music.
