ETSU music major finds her voice

When Gabrielle Stoll steps in front of an audience, there’s music in the air – as well as purpose.  

A junior vocal music education major at East Tennessee State University, Stoll is preparing for a future when she hopes to shape young minds and the next generation of musicians. 

“My dream right now is to teach high school chorus,” said Stoll, who is also minoring in fine and performing arts studies and secondary education teacher prep. “Once I gain some experience, I plan to return to school to pursue a master’s in music education or conducting.” 

At ETSU, music is more than a major. It’s a community.

“For me, ETSU’s enthusiastic support of the arts both in the department and in the local community has provided growth opportunities and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that have amplified my passion for music greatly,” she said. “Just recently, the ETSU Department of Music collaborated with the Johnson City Symphony Orchestra to perform ‘Carmina Burana.’ Not many undergraduate students have the chance to perform major works, and it was an experience I’ll never forget.” 

Stoll credits ETSU’s supportive faculty and rigorous training for helping her succeed. 

“Music is a deceptively difficult major,” she said. “Without the guidance of my mentors, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I hope to be that same kind of mentor for my own students one day.” 

Stoll’s story is just one example of the talent and dedication within ETSU’s Department of Music, which offers dozens of opportunities throughout the year for students to share their gifts with the community. And the Mary B. Martin School of the Arts stands as an incredible hub for performances and exhibitions.  

April brings a packed schedule of events, from major guest artists to intimate student recitals. Here’s a look at some of the music-related events this month:   

• A flute studio recital is set for April 2, followed by guest pianist Dmitry Rachmanov on April 3. 
• Jackopierce also performs April 3, and The Adam Larson Trio takes the stage April 4 as part of ETSU’s inaugural Jazz Festival. 
• April 5 features the ETSU Gospel Choir and Perfect Harmony, a showcase of ETSU’s a cappella ensembles. 
• The Percussion Ensemble performs April 6. 
• Scythian headlines the “You Are Not Alone” concert April 7. 
• Performances by Asleep at the Wheel and Ben Folds follow on April 10 and 11. 
• April 12 brings “Pickin’ in the School-Yard,” featuring ETSU Bluegrass and more. 
• April 13 offers a series of brass studio recitals, culminating in a combined brass ensemble concert April 14. 
• The ETSU BLUE Singer-Songwriter Showcase and Closing Bands Concert are both scheduled for April 22. 
• The SGA Spring Concert featuring NLE Choppa is April 24. 
• ETSU Choirs present their spring concert, “And There Was Music,” on April 25. 
• April closes with a performance of Sondheim’s music on April 27 and a concert by Michael W. Smith on April 30. 

“We are incredibly proud of our students and the rich variety of performances they help bring to life,” said Dr. Alan Stevens, chair of the department. “Whether it’s jazz, classical, commercial, musical theatre, or contemporary, April is full of opportunities to come out and enjoy music. We invite the entire community to join us.” 

Purchase tickets through the ETSU Martin Center for the Arts website.