2025

Hannah Pearson, CMS Managing Director (2022–2025)

Hannah Pearson has served CMS since 2022, first as Director of Operations, then as Managing Director, guiding governance at both the chapter and national levels, supporting conference planning and execution, and serving as a collaborative partner to the CMS Executive Director while working closely with the CMS Executive Office staff and elected leadership to advance organizational initiatives.

In January, Hannah will begin a new chapter working with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra as Assistant General Manager, overseeing daily operations and supporting strategic oversight. In this Spotlight, she reflects on her experiences and contributions to CMS leading up to this transition.

You helped lead chapter governance and conference planning. What behind‑the‑scenes improvements or innovations should members know about that made the biggest difference?

I’ve greatly enjoyed playing a role in leading both chapter governance and conference planning during my time with CMS. At the chapter governance level, the work I’m most proud of centered around making governance more transparent, flexible, and efficient for the elected leaders and members who volunteer their time to serve. This work includes streamlining budget and financial communications so questions could be answered quickly and clearly, introducing automated forms to reduce the volume of individual email communication, and encouraging a culture of open communication (“yes, and”) and collaboration between Chapters and the Executive Office. I hope that these changes, while small, help ensure that CMS Chapters are supported by the CMS Executive Office in the planning of conferences and regional initiatives that engage with a wide cross-section of CMS members. 

On the conference side, I’ve been fortunate to work closely with Charlie Chadwell, CMS Director of Professional Activities; Jeff Loeffert, CMS Executive Director; and the Program Committee leadership over the last several years to develop initiatives aimed at making CMS conferences more accessible, inclusive, and engaging. Ongoing efforts include engaging keynote speakers and performers whose work speaks directly to the themes of each conference, collaborating with industry partners to create unique experiences and networking opportunities for conference attendees, and constantly evaluating how we can make conference registration rates financially accessible while maintaining the fiscal sustainability of CMS conferences, both at the national and international levels. 

A particularly memorable example of this type of innovative programming was collaborating with Tara Hoot and the District 5 wind quintet to stage a 7:00 am drag show performance during the 2024 National Conference in Washington, D.C., last fall. This event turned an early-morning presentation time into a celebration of creativity and inclusivity, and highlighted the organization’s commitment to amplifying diverse voices and experiences. This performance remains especially meaningful to me as a reminder of the ways in which thoughtful event planning can create moments of timely, genuine connection.

From an operations perspective, what is something you wish more members knew about what it takes to produce CMS events, webinars, and publications at a high standard?

How extremely collaborative (and intricate) all of these efforts are! With a small but dedicated staff team, we rely heavily on elected leadership (at both the Chapter and National levels) to imagine, propose, and vet new initiatives before they move forward. Every detail, from conference locations to webinar topics, is carefully reviewed and confirmed by elected leaders serving on behalf of CMS members.

On the staff side, the execution of member services is equally complex. Producing events and publications at a high standard requires constant coordination and volunteer support across all areas of CMS offerings, including communications, governance, marketing, and event planning. All services provided by CMS should ultimately align with the organization’s mission and aim to serve the needs and values of CMS members as a whole.

I also want to encourage the membership-wide recognition of the CMS staff team and their many contributions to supporting and executing the day-to-day activities and long-term goals of the organization. The CMS staff team is small, but outstanding: Shannon Devlin serves as the first point of contact for CMS members while also managing key membership initiatives and informational services; Dave Shafer safeguards CMS’s technology and data; Arisa Williams ensures fast web updates and communications; and Charlie Chadwell leads conference planning alongside his teaching and performing career. They are joined by interns Ani Berberian and Sheridan Mackey, who handle behind‑the‑scenes logistics, and Executive Director Jeff Loeffert, whose exceptional commitment to the CMS staff, elected leadership, membership, and organizational goals continues to move the organization forward.

What surprised you most about serving CMS, and how did that surprise change your approach to leadership or problem solving?

What surprised me most about serving CMS was how quickly my focus shifted from proving myself as an individual leader to recognizing the responsibility of serving the organization and the CMS membership as a whole. When I first stepped into my role, I was very concerned with my own effectiveness – leading a staff team, executing operations at a high level, and establishing credibility among my colleagues. I’ve since realized, however, that my success in this role depended much more heavily on actively listening to the needs of members, honoring and supporting the goals of CMS elected leadership, and working collaboratively across all organizational stakeholders to help move initiatives forward. 

My work with CMS has ultimately been a meaningful (and humbling!) experience in true “service leadership” that helped me move away from my focus on personal achievement and toward supporting and amplifying the goals of others. 

As you depart at the end of December, what hopes or advice would you offer to CMS leadership and members for the next phase of the organization’s growth?

One of my favorite strengths of CMS is the organization’s ability to create and foster genuine connections between members across all facets of the organization and disciplines across music in higher education. As I depart, I hope that CMS continues to expand this atmosphere of networking and support, while also finding new ways to meet the ever-evolving needs of the membership, particularly during this challenging time in academia. I encourage CMS to continue exploring ways in which we might best serve the full breadth of CMS members, especially students and contingent faculty, and to prioritize accessibility, inclusivity, and forward-looking initiatives. 

I am also excited to see the ways in which CMS continues to expand on relationships with colleague organizations, like NAMM and NASM, to create new and meaningful opportunities for CMS members. 

What is next for you, and how can CMS colleagues stay connected or support your next chapter?

I’m excited to join the operations team at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra as Assistant General Manager in early January. I also plan to stay engaged with and support CMS as a member of the organization, and look forward to all that lies ahead for the society over the next few years (especially the 2027 International Conference in Iceland!). I’d love to stay in touch, and welcome anyone to reach out via social media (LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram (@hannahbp15)). 

I am so genuinely grateful to have had the opportunity to serve CMS for the last three-and-a-half years, and I hope to stay in touch. The kindness, care, and community at CMS are unmatched, and this transition is truly bittersweet. Please say hello if you’re ever in Atlanta!

Rey Sanchez, Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation and a Professor of Music Business and Entertainment Industries at the FROST School of Music at the University of Miami

CMS is excited to share the launch of our new “Innovation Forum” programming. Beyond the Algorithm: Rethinking Music with AI is a yearlong Innovation Forum hosted by Rey Sanchez (Frost School of Music) that brings together scholars, artists, and educators to explore the creative, ethical, and pedagogical implications of artificial intelligence in music. Through a series of virtual sessions and collaborative dialogue, the forum invites participants to critically examine how AI is reshaping musical practice, identity, and education, and to imagine new possibilities for the field.

Learn more about Rey’s approach to this series, as well as what to expect during these sessions, in the spotlight below.

What inspired the theme “Beyond the Algorithm,” and how does it reflect the current moment in music and technology?

I was looking for a title that expressed the idea of “moving on”, getting past the novelty of AI and onto using the technology as a normal part of our everyday activities. While AI tools are still rapidly evolving, I feel we’re now at a moment where we can rely on them regularly to positively affect our work. 

In your view, what are the most pressing questions musicians and educators should be asking about AI right now?

They’re exactly what we’re exploring in these forums. I think we can put them in three general buckets:

1. CREATIVITY - What is the role of AI in the creative process? This question includes issues of musical identity and “humanness”.
2. EDUCATION - What is the role of AI in Music Education? This is a big topic because AI challenges some of our most fundamental presuppositions such as how music is made, and what defines a “musician”.
3. ETHICAL/LEGAL – Who owns what and why? This is a complicated question, in part because of the patchwork of laws and copyright regimes around the world, and also because ethical standards vary among different societies and cultures. 

How will the Innovation Forums create space for both excitement and skepticism around AI’s role in music?

I believe AI is the most important technological innovation impacting music since the advent of recording technology. I really hope we have many robust conversations during these forums. The general format will be a short introductory presentation on each topic and then open the floor to a hearty discussion.

Can you share a glimpse into the kinds of sessions or conversations attendees might experience?

I’ve pretty much laid it out here already. However, due to the nature of this field right now, I expect things to change very rapidly. (Just like the weather in the Midwest...) We’ll adjust accordingly along the way.

What do you hope participants will take away from this series, especially those navigating the intersection of creativity, ethics, and emerging technologies?

I hope the take away isn’t that we’ll somehow figure out all the answers, but rather that we’ll learn to ask better questions, particularly at the intersection of creativity and ethics.

---

Bio

An educator, scholar, producer, songwriter and guitarist, Rey is also the Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation and a Professor of Music Business and Entertainment Industries at the FROST School of Music at the University of Miami. This multi-faceted educator and musician is Director of the Bruce Hornsby Creative American Music (CAM) program, an innovative performing songwriting program with a curriculum developed with Frost School alumnus Bruce Hornsby that incorporates both American roots music and contemporary styles. The CAM program led to the development of what has become one of the school’s fastest growing areas of study, the BM in Modern Artist Development and Entrepreneurship (The MADE program). It also offers those with an interest in electronic music performance an opportunity to become full music majors, a first for a major music school in the U.S.

It’s that degree of commitment and initiative that Dean Sanchez has not only brought to the FROST School of Music, but also to the university as a whole. He was instrumental in establishing the first-of-a-kind joint JD/MM and MA degrees in Music Business & Entertainment Industries and Arts Presenting & Live Entertainment Management in cooperation with the University of Miami School of Law. He also spearheaded the development and launch of the online extension of the FROST School of Music - FROST Online - allowing students to take advantage of the aforementioned Master’s programs from the comfort of their computers.

Dean Rey not only brings that enthusiasm and exuberance to the classroom, but to every project he undertakes. An accomplished artist in his own right, Dean Sanchez has worked with numerous international artists, including Latin superstar Chayanne, for whom he’s served as his longtime musical director.  His lengthy career has found him associated with such distinguished organizations as EMI Music Publishing, Sony Music, Universal Music and Columbia Pictures Publications among others. In addition, his band Yerba Blue released its debut album Americaña in 2010, a fusion of Bluegrass, Americana and Latin music.

The author of numerous educational guitar books published by FJH Music Publishing, Dean Sanchez is a voting member of the Recording Academy, a former President of the Music and Entertainment Industry Educator’s Association (MEIEA) and a current and founding member of the Board of Directors of the Association for Popular Music Education (APME). A specialist in international music copyright, he wrote an article, “Unfair? The Unique Status of Sound Recordings under U.S. Copyright Law and its Impact on the Progress of Sample-Based Music,” which was published in the 2012 edition of the Journal of the Music & Entertainment Industry Educators Association.

Dean Sanchez holds degrees in Music Theory/Composition and Studio Writing/Production.

What excites you most about leading the planning of CMS conferences?

My favorite part about planning the CMS conferences is getting to be at the center of all of the wonderful musicians and educators who come together to make these events possible. It's truly a privilege to get to work with the CMS staff, the Program Committee members, the presenters, and the guest speakers.

Can you share more about any new formats, themes, or experiences attendees can expect in Spokane this fall? 

I’m especially excited about the new Table Talk sessions developed by the 2025 National Conference Program Committee. This presentation format brings together multiple presenters sharing research on related topics, followed by small-group discussions among attendees. It’s a fantastic opportunity for participants to make meaningful connections with others who share similar interests.

I’m also looking forward to the Post-Concert Reception and Pub Trivia on Friday evening. I hope everyone brings their Halloween costumes! 

What’s one lesson you’ve learned from past conferences that’s shaping your approach to 2025? 

The best parts about conferences like CMS are the opportunities for people to make new connections with others. The exchange of research and performance is great, of course, but perhaps just as important are the conversations that happen (planned or otherwise) among attendees. With this in mind, I've worked with the CMS staff and the Program Committee to create more communal events that encourage attendees to interact with each other. The dine-arounds, receptions, roundtable think-tanks, table talks, and the Defining Professional Futures Plenary Career Workshop are all events that I hope help to foster this kind of interaction.

What do you find most challenging about this role with CMS, and what is most rewarding? 

Most challenging: Fitting together all of the presentations, performances, meetings, and receptions in a way that minimizes conflicts and creates a balanced, engaging experience, without making the schedule feel overwhelming.

Most rewarding: The conference itself! Getting to see people that I've been interacting with (primarily via email) for the last two years of the planning process is extremely gratifying. After reading the titles of the performances and presentations hundreds of times since the beginning of the proposal review process back in January, it's fun to finally see them come to fruition. 

What advice would you give to someone attending their first CMS conference?

Attend as many sessions as you can—but also make time for the receptions, dine-arounds, and other informal gatherings. The casual settings are often where the most memorable conversations and lasting professional connections happen.

---

Bio

Charlie Chadwell is an active saxophonist, chamber musician, and educator. He serves as Assistant Professor of Saxophone at Western Illinois University and as Director of Professional Activities for the College Music Society.

An advocate for new music, Chadwell regularly commissions and premieres works for the saxophone. Recent performances include solo and chamber appearances at the International Double Reed Society, SEAMUS Conference, Electronic Music Midwest, and NASA. In 2023, he premiered Code of Conduct by James Stephenson with the WIU Wind Ensemble.

Chadwell is also a founding member of Camerata Nova, a contemporary woodwind quintet that reimagines the traditional ensemble by incorporating the saxophone. Dedicated to expanding the repertoire for this distinctive instrumentation, Camerata Nova has commissioned new works by Katherine Pukinskis, John Mindeman, and James Caldwell, and has received multiple grants, including the International Double Reed Society “50 in 50” Commissioning Grant.

He holds a DMA in Saxophone Performance and MM in Music Theory from Michigan State University, an MM in Saxophone Performance from Oklahoma State University, and a BM in Music Education with a Performance Certificate from The University of Texas at Austin.

This month, we’re pleased to highlight Ani Berberian and Sheridan Mackey, our CMS Administrative Interns, whose thoughtful work has quietly supported many aspects of our day-to-day operations since they joined the team in June. From coordinating conference logistics to maintaining clear communication across departments, Ani and Sheridan bring focus, reliability, and a collaborative spirit to everything they do. We’re glad to introduce them more fully in this month’s Spotlight.

Left: Ani Berberian, CMS Administrative Intern (Publications & Member Services); right: Sheridan Mackey, CMS Administrative Intern (Social Media & Marketing).

1. What drew you to apply for the CMS internship?

Ani Berberian (AB): I have been a member of the College Music Society for over two decades and have long admired the organization’s commitment to supporting college music faculty, as well as undergraduate and graduate students, through opportunities for professional growth, personal development, and career advancement. Having witnessed its continued success, I am eager to contribute to and learn from CMS in a new capacity. After more than twenty years as a performing artist, my career is now shifting toward music leadership and administration. This internship offers an invaluable opportunity to gain deeper insight into the CMS’s leadership, structure, and operations—knowledge that will help me grow as I take on new professional directions while continuing to serve the music community.

Sheridan Mackey (SM):

I chose to apply for the CMS internship because of my interest in learning more about, and engaging with, non-profit music organizations. I was also drawn to apply for this position because of the opportunity to expand my skills in an arts administration role. 

2. As you begin your internship, what are you most excited to learn or contribute to during your time with The College Music Society?

AB: I am excited to expand my understanding of strategic planning and how technological applications can support organizational leadership and streamline daily operations. While I gained valuable experience in operations during my time in the Air Force, I look forward to deepening that knowledge in the context of a music organization that I care deeply about. I am also looking forward to engaging with attendees and presenters at the national conference. Contributing to a smooth, positive conference experience for both presenters and attendees is something I feel strongly about, as it is an invaluable experience of learning and the exchanging of ideas. I am committed to assisting the CMS leadership staff in ensuring the organization runs smoothly, in order to continue to provide its members meaningful opportunities.

SM: I’m most excited to continue expanding CMS’s social media presence, while also learning more about marketing and event planning strategies. 

3. Looking ahead, how do you see this internship supporting your future goals, whether academic, professional, or creative?

AB: After a rewarding performance career, I am excited to pursue the next chapter of my journey by leading a musical arts organization, whether within academia or the broader music industry. This internship provides an invaluable opportunity to observe firsthand how a successful organization like CMS is structured and managed. I admire the CMS executive staff’s model of servant leadership—a philosophy I also embrace, where true leadership means serving and equipping others with the tools they need to thrive. In addition, I aspire to host the International Clarinet Association’s Clarinet Conference in the future, and the chance to learn from CMS’s successful planning and execution of major events will be directly applicable to that goal.

SM: I believe that this internship will allow me to gain the experiences, skills, and connections that are vital to pursuing other arts administration positions in addition to maintaining an active performing and teaching career. 

4. What aspects of music in higher education are you most passionate about exploring, and how do you hope to grow in those areas through this internship?

AB: As I prepare for a future leadership role, I would like to explore the pressing challenges facing music in higher education and to consider innovative solutions for addressing them. Furthermore, I am passionate about exploring how music in higher education can continue to evolve in ways that prepare students for sustainable careers in an ever-changing musical landscape. I look forward to engaging with CMS members to better understand the diverse perspectives and experiences of faculty, and to learn how these issues impact their daily work. 

Through this internship, I hope to gain insight into how the College Music Society supports these areas by fostering collaboration, innovation, and professional development opportunities for faculty and students alike. I am especially interested in learning how organizational leadership and conference programming can highlight emerging trends and address the needs of today’s music students. I hope to grow not only as an administrator and leader, but also as an advocate for forward-thinking approaches to music education that empower the next generation of musicians, educators, and scholars.

SM: I am interested in exploring ways to interact with other music disciplines in higher education. Through this internship, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of how to facilitate meaningful interdisciplinary connections, while also learning how to expand these relationships through technology and social media. 

---

Ani Berberian A native of Brookings, South Dakota, Ani Berberian is a distinguished clarinetist, educator, and military musician whose career spans more than two decades of performance, service, and teaching. She served 21 years in the United States Air Force, performing with The U.S. Air Force Band in Washington, D.C., and The U.S. Air Force Academy Band in Colorado Springs. She is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Music Leadership at the Eastman School of Music, University of Rochester.

Before her military service, Dr. Berberian held academic appointments as Professor of Clarinet and Music Theory at Missouri State University, Artist Faculty at the Missouri Fine Arts Academy, and faculty positions at the University of Colorado–Boulder, Bemidji State University, and Concordia College.

An accomplished soloist, Ani has been featured at multiple International Clarinet Association ClarinetFests, national clarinet symposia, and in performances throughout Europe and Japan. She is also featured on the Cirrus label recording Black Swirls. Passionate about championing new music, she has commissioned works by Joseph Spaniola, Dana Wilson, and Jim Stephenson, and has collaborated with leading composers including Frank Ticheli, Joan Tower, Libby Larsen, and Michael Murray.

Ani earned her Doctor of Musical Arts in Clarinet Performance from Michigan State University, a Master of Music from Arizona State University—where she served as a graduate teaching assistant—and a Bachelor of Arts in Music and German from South Dakota State University. She is a Buffet Crampon USA Performing Artist and Clinician.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Ani enjoys hiking, biking, cooking, camping, collecting lighthouses, playing pickleball, and spending time with her husband and their two dogs.

---

Sheridan Mackey Sheridan Mackey is currently a master’s student at the University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign pursuing a degree in Saxophone Performance and Literature, where she serves as a graduate assistant for the Illinois Athletic Bands. She is involved with a number of ensembles at the University of Illinois, including the Illinois Wind Symphony, Saxophone Ensemble, and Graduate Saxophone Quartet. Additionally, Sheridan is an Administrative Intern with the College Music Society for the 2025-2026 academic year. 

An active soloist and chamber musician, Sheridan has given performances at the North American Saxophone Alliance (NASA) Regional and National Conferences, the International Navy Band Saxophone Symposium, Wisconsin Music Educators Association Conference, and Illinois Music Educators Association Conference. Sheridan was a member of the award-winning Roadmap Saxophone Quartet, who received first prize in the Jonathan McCall College Division of the New Orleans Chamber Fest in 2022. As a soloist, in 2024 Sheridan was named Runner-Up in the Illinois Division of the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) Young Artist Competition. 

Sheridan is also an active music educator. While at UW-Milwaukee, she served as the Music Theory teaching assistant. In this role, she helped organize the Music Theory Tutoring Center, was a guest lecturer in Fundamentals of Music Theory I-III courses, and provided one-on-one tutoring sessions to fellow graduate students. Throughout her education, Sheridan has also maintained a private saxophone studio. Her students have gone on to make the All-State Bands in Oklahoma. 

A native of Oklahoma, Sheridan holds a BM in Saxophone Performance from Oklahoma State University, as well as a Performance Certificate in Music Performance from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Sheridan is an active member of NASA and an alumni member of Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Band Sorority. She has studied saxophone with Dr. Nicki Roman and Dr. Johnny Salinas.

The CMS Fund is proud to announce the first three award recipients from our newly-inaugurated Eileen M. Hayes Fund for Equity and Opportunity. First, in June 2025, the Hayes Fund provided program support for Theorizing African American Music's second annual conference. Additionally, two individual scholars will receive research support – Jiayue Cecilia Wu for her presentation "Sound of Nangqên: A Spiritual Audiovisual Landscape," and Shekinah Ball for her research regarding African American spirituals and solo repertoire for lower brass. On behalf of the entire Society, we congratulate TAAM and our two scholar recipients, and we send thanks especially to those CMS members who have ensured the Hayes Fund's success. For information about how to support the Hayes Fund for Equity and Opportunity, or how to apply for future grants, please see our website.

CMS Fund President Bill Pelto took a moment to answer a few questions about the scope and goals of the Equity Fund and wider initiatives within The CMS Fund, below: 

Can you describe the scope and goals of the Eileen M. Hayes Equity Fund? 

The Eileen M. Hayes Fund for Equity and Opportunity was established in 2024 to recognize and honor the leadership and professional commitments of ethnomusicologist and past CMS President Dr. Eileen M. Hayes, the first African American and second woman of color to hold that office. The Hayes Fund aims to recognize exceptional commitments to equity and inclusion in music in higher education, guided by a preference to support proposals from contingent faculty and from groups underrepresented in academia. 

What specific initiatives or programming does the Fund support to advance equity, access, and inclusion within the music teaching profession and academic communities?

The first awards from the Hayes Fund were just announced, following a vetting process that began earlier in the spring. Awards recognized the accomplishments of one organization, Theorizing African American Music, and two individual scholars, Jiayue Cecilia Wu and Shekinah Ball. The CMS Fund anticipates making similar awards each year, with our next call for proposals scheduled for the 2026 spring semester. 

How do you hope to see the Equity Fund evolve over the next 5-10 years? 

Activities of the Hayes Fund will depend largely on funding support from CMS members and others. We hope to see the Fund grow tenfold, mirroring our goal of growth for The CMS Fund as a whole. Such growth could obviously provide opportunities for larger numbers of scholars with diverse interests and contributions. With a larger balance to work with, the CMS Fund could also begin to make ongoing contributions to scholars' work throughout the year. 

What advice would you give to future Equity Fund applicants?

Even for a first year of awards, the process was highly competitive, with over twenty proposals under consideration. Given that, applicants will be well-advised to make sure their proposals are well-written, aligning well with goals stated in the Hayes Fund documents, and demonstrating likelihood of development beyond a single one-time project.

CMS Chapter Presidents play a vital role in furthering the mission of The College Music Society through their planning and execution of CMS Chapter Conferences, support of student scholars, direct engagement with faculty in their respective chapters, and leadership of their Chapter Boards. 

Looking to get involved with your chapter’s leadership? Nominate yourself or a colleague using this link by September 1st. 

What inspired you to take on this leadership role within CMS?

Yi-Yang Chen (YC): I was inspired to take on a leadership role within CMS because of the organization’s clear vision and its commitment to artistic freedom. CMS creates a space where we can build meaningful connections, explore new ideas, and expand beyond our comfort zones. It encourages creativity and innovation, which aligns perfectly with my own values as an artist and educator.

Ryan Keebaugh (RK): My inspiration came from a deep desire to contribute meaningfully to the music community and to help shape the future of music education and scholarship. CMS has always stood out to me as a space where diverse voices in music—educators, performers, composers, and scholars—come together. I saw this leadership role as an opportunity to amplify those voices, foster collaboration, and support initiatives that reflect the evolving landscape of music in higher education.

Aileen Razey (AR): CMS has provided numerous professional opportunities and resources since I first became a member during my doctoral studies. Upon receiving a recommendation from a CMS board member and colleague, I gladly stepped into my first leadership role as Performance Chair so that I could give back to an organization that I believed in. I was warmly welcomed into the Northeast Chapter and was inspired by the knowledge, skill, experience, and community that was shared at chapter conferences.  Now as President of this chapter, I certainly hope to help provide experiences that continue to bring together students and professionals of all musical disciplines and give back to an organization that has already provided so much support in my professional development. 

Sophia Tegart (ST): I wouldn’t say I was inspired to take on a leadership role as much as made friends with the people in my region and ended up volunteering to help out. I went to a regional conference in 2015 and enjoyed my time there. I met the chapter leadership and found myself hosting the 2016 regional conference. It felt good to be involved in the organization in my own region. Each position I have held has felt like a natural progression.

What do you most look forward to in your role as President this coming year? 

YC: I’m especially excited about continuing to embrace a multidisciplinary lens to expand the boundaries of music and dialogue within our community. For the 2025 conference, I curated a program that bridges conversations between East and West, creating a vibrant environment for research sharing, idea generation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. I look forward to deepening this momentum in the year ahead.

RK: I’m most excited about creating opportunities for meaningful engagement, whether through innovative programming, interdisciplinary collaborations, or mentorship initiatives. I look forward to supporting our members in their professional growth and ensuring our chapter remains a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking community. I’m also eager to explore how we can better integrate technology and global perspectives into our work.

AR: Our 2025 chapter conference left me with a strong sense of being part of a supportive and vibrant musical community, and I look forward to continuing to foster that sense of belonging at our 2026 conference. Over the past few years, our Northeast board has implemented initiatives to strengthen community and increase student involvement with the goal of providing an enriching professional experience for all of our membership. We will continue to support innovative and interdisciplinary submission calls, encourage student involvement and student-based sessions, and intentionally design our conference schedule to include time for connection and conversation.

ST: I look forward to attending the national CMS conference because it is finally in my own region! The northwest region doesn’t see a lot of national conferences for some reason, but it should! I love this region and am very excited for the CMS membership to see my hometown. Spokane is a hip town that hides in the eastern part of Washington and keeps to itself; while here you should check out Auntie’s Bookstore, The Onion Bar and Grille, the garbage-eating goat in Riverfront Park, and take the gondola ride over Spokane Falls!

How does your chapter hope to foster student engagement within CMS?

YC: We’ve taken a proactive approach by establishing a student chapter and launching initiatives that promote composer-performer collaborations at our conferences. These efforts have sparked meaningful interactions and brought fresh energy and creativity into our community. Fostering student engagement is essential to ensuring the future vitality of CMS.

RK: Student engagement is a top priority. We’re planning to:

• Host student-led panels and workshops that highlight emerging research and creative work.
• Launch mentorship pairings between students and professionals in various music fields.
• Create networking events that are both formal and informal to build community. 
• Offer micro-grants or travel support for students to attend conferences or present their work. 

We want students to feel that CMS is a place where their voices are heard and their contributions are valued. 

AR: We are fortunate to have had dedicated Student Representatives who have played a key role in launching student-focused initiatives within our chapter. Our current representative has hosted online sessions prior to our chapter conference to help students connect, ask questions, and become familiar with CMS, and they have also planned student sessions during the conference. Additionally, we recognize student excellence through two annual awards at our conference: The Elliot S. Schwartz Student Composition Award and the Diane W. Follet Outstanding Student Scholarship Award. Student engagement is a standing item on our meeting agendas, and we remain committed to shaping our chapter as a supportive and welcoming space for our student members.  

ST: The Northwest Chapter has developed monetary student awards for composition, performance, and papers at our regional conferences. We offer a lower student rate for our conferences and have even developed student-focused calls. We want the students of the Northwest Chapter to have opportunities to develop their presentation skills and present their research.

What advice would you give to CMS members who are interested in stepping into Chapter leadership? Are there particular qualities or experiences that helped you succeed in this role?

YC: To be honest, this role involves a great deal of behind-the-scenes work; but the support from CMS headquarters makes the process smooth and rewarding. If you have a passion for the arts and a vision for making a difference, this is your playground. Don’t be afraid to step in. The relationships you build and the experiences you gain will be incredibly fulfilling. Surrounding yourself with supportive colleagues and embracing a spirit of collaboration have been key to my success in this role.

RK: My advice is to start by getting involved—attend events, volunteer for committees, and connect with current leaders. Leadership in CMS is about service, vision, and collaboration. The qualities that have helped me most are strong communication skills, a collaborative mindset, a genuine passion for music and education, and the ability to listen and adapt. Having experience in organizing events, mentoring students, or participating in interdisciplinary projects can also be incredibly valuable.

AR: Holding leadership roles with the Northeast chapter has been incredibly meaningful, not only in terms of my professional development but also in building lasting relationships and friendships. There are many ways to get involved with our chapter, from holding a board member position to joining a committee that evaluates conference proposals, to taking on the role of student representative. I truly believe there is a leadership opportunity that can align with the interests of anyone committed to the values of CMS. 

Our current chapter leadership is made up of respectful, caring, and dedicated individuals. If you are interested in stepping into a leadership position, I invite you to contact myself or other board members to share your interest. We would be happy to talk with you about the various opportunities and the responsibilities they entail. The qualities that have helped me feel in my roles are staying organized, being proactive, and maintaining clear and open communication. It is a privilege and deeply fulfilling to be part of a team that is committed to our musical community.   

ST: Getting involved in CMS leadership is relatively easy! I recommend starting by submitting proposals for your regional conference or simply attending the regional conference. Getting to know the people in your region by listening to presentations often opens up potential collaborations and new friendships. Developing a rapport and relationship between yourself and the people in your region will help you understand the needs of the region and what leadership roles are needed. I recommend starting with conference leadership opportunities: serve on the selection committees, volunteer to help with the conference, act as Program Chair or Conference Host. Then run for an office! I recommend getting to know your region and its people, as well as the organization, and then give back to your profession through your service. In the end, always feel free to contact your region’s leadership and ask how to get involved.

Yi-Yang Chen

President, CMS Central Chapter

Dr. Yi-Yang Chen shot onto the international stage with back-to-back victories in the 2018 Sussex International Piano Competition, 2017 Washington International Competition, and the Warning International Piano Competition. The Worthing Herald music critic Richard Amey praised his recent performance “flair for the unusual and his technical and artistic capacity to deliver,” as well as his “musical and emotional intelligence, dexterity and virtuosity,” listening to Chen as soloist in Saint-Saëns’ Piano Concerto No.5 “Egyptian” with the Worthing Symphony Orchestra. His vibrant playing at the Pacific International Piano Competition (Canada) was recognized by the judges, who selected him for the first prize (“…Yi-Yang showed an impressive breadth of emotional investment and natural affinity for the music he played. The informed individuality and command of his performance was immediately compelling to the judges. We feel this young man has a fine future as an artist. He seems to ‘own’ the piano as he plays, and this makes his performance extremely powerful” – Dr. Robin McCabe). 

Yi-Yang Chen is an assistant professor of piano at the University of Kansas and the Artist Director of the Orbifold Music Festival in California. Born in Taipei, Taiwan, Chen has been playing the piano since the age of 8. Yi-Yang completed his Doctor of Musical Arts And Bachelor’s of Music at the Eastman School of Music with Douglas Humpherys, and his Master’s degree at The Juilliard School with Robert McDonald and Jerome Lowenthal. He also has solo/chamber masterclasses with Itzhak Perlman, Emanuel Ax, Daniel Pollack, Joseph Kalichstein, Glenn Dicterow, Thomas Sauer, and with members from the Cleveland, Shanghai, Borromeo, Brentano, Ying, and Guarneri String Quartets. 

Yi-Yang has captivated audiences worldwide with his flamboyant playing. He has performed on five continents in acclaimed venues, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center in New York, Melbourne Recital Centre, National Concert Hall in Taipei, Banff Music Centre in Canada, ZK Matthews Great Hall in South Africa, and the Assembly Hall in Worthing, UK, with such orchestras as the Worthing Symphony Orchestra, Brevard Music Center Orchestra, Avanti Orchestra, Eastman Philharmonic Orchestra, National Chinese Orchestra, and the Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra. He has appeared at the Perlman Music Festival, Taos School of Music Summer Chamber Music Festival, Banff Music Centre, Music Academy of the West, Four Seasons Winter Workshop, and Brevard Music Center. 

Yi-Yang Chen is a member of the Music Teachers National Association, College Music Society, and Mu Phi Epsilon. He enjoys swimming, biking, traveling, and composing. Yi-Yang is currently working on a recording project with Champs Hill label (UK); the release is scheduled for 2025. Before joining KU (University of Kansas), Yi-Yang served on the faculty at East Tennessee State University as a tenure-track professor.

Ryan Keebaugh

President, CMS Mid-Atlantic Chapter

Ryan Keebaugh, Director of Choral Music and Assistant Professor of Music at Bridgewater College, has been hailed by the Washington Post as an “energetic, expressive, concise, insightful, and sensitive” conductor. Ryan’s versatile and vibrant musicianship is well known for his expertise embracing singers of all ages, from young children and emerging choirs to university, community and professional choruses and has distinguished him as a leading music educator, guest conductor, and clinician to choral and ensembles throughout the United States.  As an inspiring teacher, popular workshop clinician, conference presenter and adjudicator at choral festivals and educational workshops, he has presented workshops and master classes both nationally and internationally. Ryan’s collaboration work with American contemporary composers has distinguished him as an advocate for interdisciplinary collaboration in the arts, alternative venues, and new commissions. His choral ensembles have been invited to perform at international and national festivals, conventions, conferences, and historic locations including Radio City Music Hall, The Washington National Cathedral, St. John the Divine, New York University Steinhardt, The Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, Canterbury, and Edinburgh Cathedrals.  Aside from his duties as a conductor and pedagogue, Ryan is an active member of the VMEA Creativity Council and was recently selected to serve The College Music Society's Mid-Atlantic Chapter as President Elect for 2022-2023.

Ryan has also maintained an active career within the marching arts. He has arranged and composed original music for several championship high school band programs in BOA, TOB, and USSBA circuits. He was a performing member of Carolina Crown and the Cadets and is an active consultant for several DCI World Class drum and bugle corps.

As a composer, Ryan’s “innovative and hauntingly beautiful" music has established him as a prominent composer and collaborator of his generation. Praised for its “gorgeous canvases of sacred minimalism" his music has been performed in venues throughout the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Europe, Japan, Brazil, and Russia. 

​Originally from Martinsburg, Pennsylvania, Ryan holds degrees from The Catholic University of America (DMA), Shenandoah Conservatory (MM), and Bridgewater College (BA).

Aileen Razey

President, CMS Northeast Chapter

Aileen Razey, described by The Clarinet as having “a truly beautiful sound which she displayed with an emotionally colorful performance,” bridges various musical and artistic genres and atmospheres. Her artistry is deeply intertwined with her commitment to education, aiming to help audiences and students better connect with themselves and the world around them through music.

Currently Assistant Professor at St. Olaf College in Minnesota, Dr. Razey’s pedagogical approach is deeply informed by her performance experience. She finds immense joy in guiding students to achieve and exceed their goals. Her previous academic positions include Lecturer at Ithaca College and Assistant Professor at Kutztown University. Her former students are now music educators and professional performers. Bringing together her passion for performance and academic teaching, Razey served as Performance Chair for the College Music Society Northeast Chapter, hosted their 2024 conference, and currently serves as Chapter President.

The collaborative spirit of music drives Aileen’s performance career and allows her to connect with musicians and audiences around the world. She often performs with the Paragon Ragtime Orchestra and has previously performed with the Aspen Music Festival and School, Syracuse Orchestra (NY) Allentown Symphony (PA), Cayuga Chamber Orchestra (PA), Szavaria Symphony Orchestra (Hungary). Razey can be heard as principal and e-flat clarinetist on five GIA records with the North Texas Wind Symphony. She was first prize winner of the inaugural Henri Selmer Summer Clarinet Academy Solo Competition, semi-finalist in the Lisbon International Clarinet Competition, and finalist recognitions at both the International Clarinet Association Young Artist Competition and Orchestra Audition Competition.

A passionate advocate for contemporary music, Razey collaborates with emerging composers around the world. As clarinetist and movement artist with The International Collective, she is dedicated to being a member of an ensemble that merges responsibilities on stage, removing boundaries between music, dance, and staging. She previously performed with the Lucerne Festival Academy, Klangspuren Schwaz International Ensemble Modern Academy, and the Institute and Festival of Contemporary Performance at Mannes.

Razey holds dearly onto the legacy of clarinet playing passed on to her from her own clarinet teachers, all of whom have influenced her performance and pedagogy tremendously. She earned a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Clarinet Performance from the University of North Texas with a related field in music education, where she also served as Teaching Fellow in Clarinet. She earned a Master of Music in Clarinet Performance from University of Denver, where she served as Graduate Teaching Assistant in Clarinet and Musicology, and she earned a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Ithaca College. Her studies include mentorship from notable teachers such as Kimberly Cole Luevano, Jeremy Reynolds, Michael Galvan, Pavel Vinnitsky, and Michael Rusinek.

Dr. Razey believes in maintaining physical and mental health to sustain her career as a musician and educator. She practices yoga, runs, dances, and hikes. Dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyle practices within the clarinet community, she is a member of the International Clarinet Association’s Health and Wellness Committee. Aileen resides in Minnesota with her husband, where they nurture a growing plant collection and enjoy traveling often.

Sophia Tegart

President, CMS Northwest Chapter

Dr. Sophia Tegart has led a varied and award-winning career as a flutist, musicologist, and clinician. A popular performer, she has been soloist with the Spokane Symphony, the Washington-Idaho Symphony, Chehalem Symphony Orchestra, and the Kansas City Civic Orchestra. As a Yamaha Performing Artist, Tegart has performed throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia. Tegart has also competed internationally, having been a finalist in the Mu Phi Epsilon International Competition and winning second place in the Music Teachers National Association Woodwind Young Artist Competition.

As an avid chamber musician, Tegart has performed at the National Flute Association Conventions, the Florida Flute Association Convention, College Music Society conferences, China ASEAN Music Week, International Conference on Women’s Work in Music in Bangor, Wales, and the Thailand International Composition Festival. Currently, Tegart is flutist in the Pan Pacific Ensemble, a wind quintet dedicated to the advancement of music by Asian and Asian-American composers. The Pan Pacific Ensemble has released two albums through Albany Records, one of which, “Feng,” was labeled one of 2019’s “Top Ten Albums of the Year” by the Daffodil Perspective. Tegart’s flute and piano duo with pianist Michael Seregow was a finalist for the 2019 American Prize in Chamber Music, and their album of works by women composers, “Palouse Songbook,” was released through Centaur Records in September 2020. Tegart also plays in the Washington State University faculty ensemble, the Solstice Wind Quintet. Together they have performed across the region with a memorable performance at the National College Music Society Conference in Vancouver, BC. Tegart also co-founded the Cherry Street Duo and has collaborated with the Portland Percussion Group. Her love of chamber music has led Tegart to arrange works for small chamber ensembles, which are currently published by Audible Intelligence Music.

Performing in the orchestral world, Tegart won positions with the Oregon Mozart Players and the Des Moines Metro Opera. Additionally, she was guest principal flutist in the Kansas City Chamber Orchestra, and performed regularly with the Kansas City Symphony, the Portland Festival Symphony, and was recently piccoloist with the Colorado Mahlerfest Orchestra. She currently performs with the Washington-Idaho Symphony and the Walla Walla Symphony on a regular basis.

A highly sought after pedagogue, Dr. Tegart regularly presents invited master classes, clinics, and lectures throughout the United States. She currently teaches at Young Musicians and Artists (YMA), and has served on the faculty of the Music For All Summer Symposium and Music in May. Additionally, she has taught at the Interharmony International Music Festival in Acqui Terme, Italy. Prior to her appointment at Washington State University, Tegart served on the faculties of Pacific University, George Fox University, Concordia University-Portland, and the University of Idaho. Since coming to WSU, she has taught numerous courses including applied flute, flute choir, chamber ensembles, History of Jazz, Women in Music, Music History: Antiquity to 1650, and a graduate seminar in Baroque music. In 2020, she was awarded the College of Arts and Sciences Early Career Achievement Award.

Tegart’s research interests include gender and music studies, nineteenth-century operatic mad scenes, and representations of art and literature in music. For her master’s thesis, “An Instrumental Voice: Use of the Flute in Lucia’s Mad Scene,” which focused on representations of madness, gender, and societal norms, she won the Mu Phi Epsilon Musicology Award. She has also presented lecture-recitals on Jessica Rudman’s Transformations, flute and bassoon duos based on the retelling of fairy tales by feminist poet Anne Sexton. Tegart has dedicated her performances and research to correcting the oversight of women composers and performers in the music world.

Dr. Tegart received her Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Flute Performance from the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music and Dance where she held the flute fellowship in the Graduate Woodwind Quintet and studied with Dr. Mary Posses. She graduated from the University of Oregon with a Master of Arts degree in Music History and a Master of Music degree in Flute Performance and from Washington State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance. Dr. Tegart is thrilled to be back on the Palouse, and especially to be in Cougar Country!

From left to right: CMS Chapter Presidents Junghwa Lee (CMS Great Lakes Chapter; Southern Illinois University Carbondale), Douglas Mark (CMS Southern Chapter; Mississippi University for Women), Kyle Gullings (CMS South Central Chapter; The University of Texas at Tyler), Jenny Gee (CMS Southwest Chapter; San Diego State University)

From left to right: CMS Nominating Committee Members Soo Goh (Chair), Appalachian State University; Michelle Kiec, Commonwealth University; Ruth Morrow, Midwestern State University; Jennifer Snodgrass, Lipscomb University

CMS is thrilled to welcome our newly elected board members to the CMS Board of Directors! See the Spotlight below to learn more about what most excites them about their leadership roles within The College Music Society.

Brian Pertl, President-Elect

“I am looking forward to being a part of the most forward-looking, change-making organization for Music in Higher Education. It is an honor to serve as President-Elect and work with CMS to keep moving our discipline forward.”

Bonnie Sneed, Treasurer

“I am looking forward to spending more time with our wonderful CMS staff and Board. Plus, I hope to continue to help improve our financial systems so that CMS can use our resources for the betterment of our musical community.”

Elisabeth Hoegberg, Board Member-at-Large

“It is such a privilege to be elected to the CMS board as Member-at-Large. I am most looking forward to many exciting conversations with colleagues across the membership to discover how best to advocate for their needs and those of the organization.”

Drew Coles, Board Member for Jazz & Commercial Music

“I'm most looking forward to collaborating with colleagues to elevate the equitable institutional appreciation and affirmation of music and lived musical experiences.”

Suzanne Hall, Board Member for Music Education

“I am honored to begin my second term on the board and ready to work on behalf of my colleagues to celebrate the remarkable achievements in our profession and to provide support and tools to address the challenges we face.”

Jessica Muñiz-Collado, Board Member for Music Industry

“I am honored to have been elected and remain steadfast in my commitment to supporting music industry education for both faculty and students. My unwavering passion for this cause is stronger than ever, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to make a meaningful and positive impact with my fellow board members.”

Mihoko Watanabe, Board Member for Music Performance

“As I start my role as Chair of the CMS Performance Council in January 2025, I am eager to engage with colleagues in thoughtful exploration of the challenges and opportunities shaping the art of performance today. With a commitment to fostering growth, embracing the dynamic process of inquiry and discovery, and nurturing innovation and creativity, the Council will navigate the evolving landscapes of our field while honoring its rich heritage and envisioning a vibrant future.”

Adam Rizzo, CMS Student Representative

“I am looking forward to working with the Executive Board in this student representative position. I am excited to learn more about CMS and its larger mission!”