November 3, 2026
ROME, Ga. — Two faculty members from Shorter University's School of Fine and Performing Arts recently presented solo recitals.
Dr. Maryann Kyle, Director of Opera Theatre and Associate Professor of Voice, presented "Well-Seasoned" at the Tiscornia Theatre. She described her vocal recital as a "musical exploration of aging delightfully." Kyle featured music by Henry Mancini, Jason Robert Brown, Stephen Sondheim, and Stephen Schwartz. She often shared humorous stories and heartfelt introductions before each piece, helping the audience connect to each character she portrayed.
As one of Shorter's newer music faculty, this was Dr. Kyle's first solo recital on campus. She was assisted by a talented group of local musicians, including Heather Frost, piano, Sam Baltzer, electric bass, and Dan Knowles, drums. In addition, Shorter University Theatre Department faculty Sue Gaukel and Donny Elkins joined Kyle on stage, along with several students.
Suzanne King, a sophomore musical theatre major, sang an arrangement of "Children Will Listen" from Into the Woods with Dr. Kyle. She said, "Getting to share the stage with my voice teacher was such a special gift. There's something so beautiful about watching the people who teach us every day step into the spotlight and share their artistry with us. Singing with Dr. Kyle was a truly wholesome moment that I will hold close to my heart for a long time."
Dr. Jerico Vasquez presented "Between Longing and Passion" in Brookes Chapel. Vasquez is a longtime music faculty at Shorter and currently the Dean of the School of Fine and Performing Arts. Freshman piano major Church Crespo said, "It was so inspiring to hear my teacher perform, and it's amazing that I get to learn and study under him."
The first half of the recital included works by Ottorino Respighi and Frederic Chopin, concluding with music by Claude Debussy as a special tribute to a former teacher who died this year. The second half opened with a solo by Carmencita G. Arambulo, a Filipino composer, and concluded with the "Appassionata" Sonata by Ludwig van Beethoven.
Music Department Chair Amy Neal said, "We are so fortunate to have these world-class performers and teachers here at Shorter University. We are thrilled that the Rome community and our students can enjoy these free performances throughout the year."
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