USC Thornton
Vocal Arts & Opera
2023 Graduates
As we finish the year and prepare for commencement, we're asking our graduating Vocal Arts students about their favorite memories of their time at Thornton. Check back as we add statements celebrating their incredible achievements, inspiring personal growth, and bright futures.
Haeun Baek
(Graduate Certificate '23) “During my involvement with opera, I had the pleasure of engaging in collaborative rehearsals with fellow colleagues, sharing a profound sense of camaraderie and mutual reliance. This experience proved to be invaluable, offering a unique and unparalleled opportunity for growth and development.”
Lydia Brown
(Bachelor of Music '23) “My favorite memory at Thornton had to have been, predictably, singing the Stewardess in Flight by Jonathan Dove this last fall. I have never felt more closely bonded to a show or cast as I did this one and I’m so grateful to everyone who helped me learn and grow as a performer and a person. I felt it was a great showcase of all I have learned here at Thornton.”
Matthew Cook
(Master of Music '23) “My favorite memory from my time at Thornton was performing as the Steward in Flight last fall. It was such an amazing experience working with my fellow cast members and the opera faculty who made the production a success, and it was an incredible opportunity to grow as a singer and performer.”
Zineb Fikri
(Graduate Certificate '23) “During our production of Flight, I had the privilege of not only performing wonderful music, but also bringing laughter to peoples lives. Being able to give an audience that was incredibly meaningful to me, and will always be one of my favorite memories at USC.“
Stephen Pitters
(Master of Music '23) “My favorite memory from my time at Thornton has to be singing The Refugee in Flight. It was such a dream come true to sing the most iconic countertenor role in contemporary operatic repertoire; with such superb musicians, dear friends, and dynamic faculty, this countertenor couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”
Krishna Raman
(Master of Music '23) “My favorite memory would have to be traveling to Finland to work on the opera All the Truths We Cannot See: A Chernobyl Story. It was so amazing to experience a new city and culture, and meet such wonderful people, all while premiering a piece internationally in collaboration with the Sibelius Academy!”
Liam Shannon
(Master of Music '23) “My favorite moment from my time at Thornton would have to be when I performed my grad recital. The minute I stepped on stage and saw my friends, family, colleagues, and faculty members in the audience; I felt so much love and support, and I’m so grateful for all my experiences and memories here at Thornton and will miss everyone.”
Melody Sparks
(Master of Music '23) “My favorite memory at Thornton School of Music is from my graduate oral exit exam when I was asked to share about my career plans for the future. The faculty was extremely encouraging, and it was also a great opportunity to thank them for their wonderful instruction during my time at USC.”