Saxophone Studio (2022-2023)
Freshmen
Sophomores
Annika Marchi
Braidwood, IL
Music Education
Annika is a sophomore majoring in Music Education with a minor in Leadership Studies at the University of Illinois, studying saxophone under Debra Richtmeyer and Jack Thorpe. She is a member of the Marching Illini, Hindsley Symphonic Band, and Saxophone Ensemble. Annika is from Braidwood, Illinois, where she graduated in 2021 from Reed-Custer High School. She was a member of the concert band, jazz band, pit orchestra, and honors jazz combo. She also served as band president, drum major, and section leader. In high school, Annika was also involved with the solo and ensemble contest where she received many Division I ratings for saxophone solos and quartets, along with three “Best Of Day” awards for saxophone solos. Her senior year, Annika was a part of the virtual District 1 ILMEA Concert Band and virtual All-State Future Music Educator’s Seminar. She’s also an active member of the Joliet American Legion Band. Annika previously studied with Mike Fiske and Amy Jergens.
Braidwood, IL
Music Education
Annika is a sophomore majoring in Music Education with a minor in Leadership Studies at the University of Illinois, studying saxophone under Debra Richtmeyer and Jack Thorpe. She is a member of the Marching Illini, Hindsley Symphonic Band, and Saxophone Ensemble. Annika is from Braidwood, Illinois, where she graduated in 2021 from Reed-Custer High School. She was a member of the concert band, jazz band, pit orchestra, and honors jazz combo. She also served as band president, drum major, and section leader. In high school, Annika was also involved with the solo and ensemble contest where she received many Division I ratings for saxophone solos and quartets, along with three “Best Of Day” awards for saxophone solos. Her senior year, Annika was a part of the virtual District 1 ILMEA Concert Band and virtual All-State Future Music Educator’s Seminar. She’s also an active member of the Joliet American Legion Band. Annika previously studied with Mike Fiske and Amy Jergens.
Emily McGovern
Music Education
Wauconda, IL
Emily McGovern is a sophomore majoring in music education at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and gets the wonderful opportunity to study with Debra Richtmyer and Jack Thorpe. In the past, Emily has studied saxophone with Matthew Storie and Matt Beck.
While at Wauconda High School, she served as a drum major and section leader; she was also very involved in the various ensembles and musical extracurricular activities. She has earned multiple Division 1's and perfect scores at her district's Solo and Ensemble Festival and was able to go to All-State in 2020 for the Future Music Educators Seminar. Emily is also fortunate to have received the John Philip Sousa Award and two music scholarships- one from the University of Illinois and the other from her high school band program.
Emily serves on the executive board for the National Band Association as the secretary, participates in the Marching Illini, participates in the Saxophone Ensemble, has played in the Illinois Wind Orchestra, and has played in the Hindsley Symphonic Band. As someone who loves exploring newer composers, Emily has commissioned one piece for band and is currently commissioning a piece for saxophone and piano.
Music Education
Wauconda, IL
Emily McGovern is a sophomore majoring in music education at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and gets the wonderful opportunity to study with Debra Richtmyer and Jack Thorpe. In the past, Emily has studied saxophone with Matthew Storie and Matt Beck.
While at Wauconda High School, she served as a drum major and section leader; she was also very involved in the various ensembles and musical extracurricular activities. She has earned multiple Division 1's and perfect scores at her district's Solo and Ensemble Festival and was able to go to All-State in 2020 for the Future Music Educators Seminar. Emily is also fortunate to have received the John Philip Sousa Award and two music scholarships- one from the University of Illinois and the other from her high school band program.
Emily serves on the executive board for the National Band Association as the secretary, participates in the Marching Illini, participates in the Saxophone Ensemble, has played in the Illinois Wind Orchestra, and has played in the Hindsley Symphonic Band. As someone who loves exploring newer composers, Emily has commissioned one piece for band and is currently commissioning a piece for saxophone and piano.
Juniors
Jack Govern
Music Performance
Jackson Govern is a freshman majoring in instrumental performance at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign studying with Debra Richtmeyer and Jack Thorpe. Jack Graduated from Libertyville High school where he participated in the Jazz Ensemble, Marching Band, pit orchestra and Wind ensemble where he held principle chair for 3 years. Jack was also a member of the North Suburban Wind Ensemble for their 2019-2020 season. Govern has previously studied saxophone for 5 years with Tim Barclay and an additional 4 years with UIUC alum Dave Tribley as well as studying piano with Olga Bornovalova. He also studied at ISYM for two summers with Debra Richtemeyer.
Jack played alto saxophone in the 2018 and 2019 District 7 Honor Band. Govern also performed on piano in the 2016 and 2017 NSMTA Sonata-Sonatina festival and received a silver and gold medal respectively. Additionally, Jack was the Soprano chair of the Libertyville High School Saxophone quartet which was invited to perform at the 2020 Music for All National Chamber Ensemble Festival. Jack was selected as a winner for his high school's senior concerto competition to perform with orchestra and was also a recipient of the John Philip Sousa Band award for the 2020 school year.
At the University of Illinois Jack is a member of the Wind Orchestra and alto chair in the undergraduate saxophone quartet along with the Illinois Saxophone Ensemble for the 2020-2021 school year.
Music Performance
Jackson Govern is a freshman majoring in instrumental performance at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign studying with Debra Richtmeyer and Jack Thorpe. Jack Graduated from Libertyville High school where he participated in the Jazz Ensemble, Marching Band, pit orchestra and Wind ensemble where he held principle chair for 3 years. Jack was also a member of the North Suburban Wind Ensemble for their 2019-2020 season. Govern has previously studied saxophone for 5 years with Tim Barclay and an additional 4 years with UIUC alum Dave Tribley as well as studying piano with Olga Bornovalova. He also studied at ISYM for two summers with Debra Richtemeyer.
Jack played alto saxophone in the 2018 and 2019 District 7 Honor Band. Govern also performed on piano in the 2016 and 2017 NSMTA Sonata-Sonatina festival and received a silver and gold medal respectively. Additionally, Jack was the Soprano chair of the Libertyville High School Saxophone quartet which was invited to perform at the 2020 Music for All National Chamber Ensemble Festival. Jack was selected as a winner for his high school's senior concerto competition to perform with orchestra and was also a recipient of the John Philip Sousa Band award for the 2020 school year.
At the University of Illinois Jack is a member of the Wind Orchestra and alto chair in the undergraduate saxophone quartet along with the Illinois Saxophone Ensemble for the 2020-2021 school year.
Naomi Niekerk
Champaign, IL
Music Education
Naomi Niekerk is a junior in music education at the University of Illinois where she studies saxophone under Debra Richtmeyer and Jack Thorpe. She is a member of the Marching Illini and Illinois Wind Orchestra. Naomi graduated from Champaign Central High School where she was a member of the wind symphony and jazz ensemble as well as a section leader in the marching band. She was also involved with solo and ensemble contest and was awarded multiple Division I ratings for saxophone solo, duet and quartet performances. Outside of school, she was a member of St. Patrick’s Youth Orchestra in Urbana and participated in the Illinois Summer Youth Music Saxophone Academy with professor Richtmeyer and Dr. Connie Frigo, as well as the Chicago Saxophone Institute with Dr. J. Michael Weiss-Holmes. She previously studied with Dr. Evan Clark and Jenelle Orcherton.
Champaign, IL
Music Education
Naomi Niekerk is a junior in music education at the University of Illinois where she studies saxophone under Debra Richtmeyer and Jack Thorpe. She is a member of the Marching Illini and Illinois Wind Orchestra. Naomi graduated from Champaign Central High School where she was a member of the wind symphony and jazz ensemble as well as a section leader in the marching band. She was also involved with solo and ensemble contest and was awarded multiple Division I ratings for saxophone solo, duet and quartet performances. Outside of school, she was a member of St. Patrick’s Youth Orchestra in Urbana and participated in the Illinois Summer Youth Music Saxophone Academy with professor Richtmeyer and Dr. Connie Frigo, as well as the Chicago Saxophone Institute with Dr. J. Michael Weiss-Holmes. She previously studied with Dr. Evan Clark and Jenelle Orcherton.
Seniors
Claire Baranyk
Naperville, IL
Music Education
Claire Baranyk is a sophomore at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign pursuing a Bachelor's in Music Education with Instrumental Concentration. She is currently a member of the classical saxophone studio, Hindsley Symphonic Band, Marching Illini, and is the soprano chair in the Fresca Quartet. Claire graduated from Metea Valley High School in 2019, was a member of the District IX ILMEA for three years, and a member of the ILMEA Honors All-State band for one year. She is honored to work with such an amazing professor and colleagues, and is looking forward to a great year in the saxophone studio!
Naperville, IL
Music Education
Claire Baranyk is a sophomore at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign pursuing a Bachelor's in Music Education with Instrumental Concentration. She is currently a member of the classical saxophone studio, Hindsley Symphonic Band, Marching Illini, and is the soprano chair in the Fresca Quartet. Claire graduated from Metea Valley High School in 2019, was a member of the District IX ILMEA for three years, and a member of the ILMEA Honors All-State band for one year. She is honored to work with such an amazing professor and colleagues, and is looking forward to a great year in the saxophone studio!
Kyle Kreutzer
Cary, IL
Music Education
Kyle Kreutzer is a sophomore studying music education and is part of the saxophone studio at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Kyle performs in the Hindsley Symphonic Band, Marching Illini, Saxophone Ensemble, and is the baritone chair in the Fresca Quartet. In high school, Kyle served as a member of Tri-M, was the drum major of his high school's marching band, and performed in the wind ensemble, jazz band, and pit orchestra. Kyle was the recipient of the National School Marching Award and has played in the Crystal Lake Community Band. Devoted to the education of young musicians, Kyle volunteers at his high school’s summer band camp for middle schoolers.
Cary, IL
Music Education
Kyle Kreutzer is a sophomore studying music education and is part of the saxophone studio at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Kyle performs in the Hindsley Symphonic Band, Marching Illini, Saxophone Ensemble, and is the baritone chair in the Fresca Quartet. In high school, Kyle served as a member of Tri-M, was the drum major of his high school's marching band, and performed in the wind ensemble, jazz band, and pit orchestra. Kyle was the recipient of the National School Marching Award and has played in the Crystal Lake Community Band. Devoted to the education of young musicians, Kyle volunteers at his high school’s summer band camp for middle schoolers.
Cameron Paddack
Rolling Meadows, IL
Music Education
Cameron Paddack is a sophomore majoring in Music Education at the University of Illinois, studying saxophone under Debra Richtmeyer and Matthew Storie. Cameron graduated in Highest Honors standing from Rolling Meadows High School, where he studied under Illinois alumni Christopher Buti and Kevin Carroll, and was an award-winning Drum Major of the Marching Mustangs his senior year. He was also involved in Symphonic Band and Jazz Ensemble where he played Alto. Additionally, he played a mixture of Baritone Saxophone and Clarinet in Concert Band, the musical pit orchestra for CATS and Into The Woods, and the annual Solo and Ensemble performance where his skills earned him multiple Division I ratings. He was awarded a scholarship through the music program for his leadership and dedication to the band throughout his four years there. At the University of Illinois, Cameron has been involved in various ensembles including the Hindsley Symphonic Band, Saxophone Ensemble, and Marching Illini. With the Saxophone Ensemble, he attended and performed at the biennial NASA conference in Tempe, AZ in March of 2020.
Rolling Meadows, IL
Music Education
Cameron Paddack is a sophomore majoring in Music Education at the University of Illinois, studying saxophone under Debra Richtmeyer and Matthew Storie. Cameron graduated in Highest Honors standing from Rolling Meadows High School, where he studied under Illinois alumni Christopher Buti and Kevin Carroll, and was an award-winning Drum Major of the Marching Mustangs his senior year. He was also involved in Symphonic Band and Jazz Ensemble where he played Alto. Additionally, he played a mixture of Baritone Saxophone and Clarinet in Concert Band, the musical pit orchestra for CATS and Into The Woods, and the annual Solo and Ensemble performance where his skills earned him multiple Division I ratings. He was awarded a scholarship through the music program for his leadership and dedication to the band throughout his four years there. At the University of Illinois, Cameron has been involved in various ensembles including the Hindsley Symphonic Band, Saxophone Ensemble, and Marching Illini. With the Saxophone Ensemble, he attended and performed at the biennial NASA conference in Tempe, AZ in March of 2020.
Kyle Soliz
Huntley, IL
Music Performance
Kyle Soliz is a sophomore majoring in Instrumental Performance at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign School of Music, and is currently studying with Debra Richtmeyer. He is a member of the Illinois Wind Symphony, UIUC Sax Ensemble, and the Alto chair of the Fidelis Quartet. Kyle is a graduate from Huntley High School in Huntley, Illinois, where he held the positions of Principal Alto in the Wind Ensemble for 3 years, Lead Alto in the Jazz Ensemble for 2 years, Assistant Drum Major for 1 year, and Head Drum Major of the Marching Band for 2 years.
As the former Soprano chair of the Huntley High School Saxophone Quartet, (HHSSQ) he was fortunate to perform with the quartet at the 2018 Music for All National Chamber Music Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. He performed as a finalist in the 2018 North American Saxophone Alliance High School Solo Competition, was second chair Alto Saxophone in the 2018 ILMEA All-State Honors Band, Principal Alto Saxophone in the 2018 District 9 ILMEA Band, performed at the 2018 ILMEA All-State Showcase concert as a member of the Huntley Wind Ensemble, and received an honorable mention for the keyboard category of the 2019 ILMEA Composition Contest. He has studied for 2 summers with Debra Richtmeyer at Illinois Summer Youth Music Academy, and 1 summer with Dr. Otis Murphy at the 2018 Indiana University Summer Saxophone Academy.
Previous teachers include Wayne Richards; Soprano chair of the Chicago Saxophone Quartet, Joseph Connor; Current Doctoral student, Teaching Assistant at Northwestern University, and Alto chair of the Fuse Quartet, and Taimur Sullivan; Professor of Saxophone at Northwestern University.
Huntley, IL
Music Performance
Kyle Soliz is a sophomore majoring in Instrumental Performance at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign School of Music, and is currently studying with Debra Richtmeyer. He is a member of the Illinois Wind Symphony, UIUC Sax Ensemble, and the Alto chair of the Fidelis Quartet. Kyle is a graduate from Huntley High School in Huntley, Illinois, where he held the positions of Principal Alto in the Wind Ensemble for 3 years, Lead Alto in the Jazz Ensemble for 2 years, Assistant Drum Major for 1 year, and Head Drum Major of the Marching Band for 2 years.
As the former Soprano chair of the Huntley High School Saxophone Quartet, (HHSSQ) he was fortunate to perform with the quartet at the 2018 Music for All National Chamber Music Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. He performed as a finalist in the 2018 North American Saxophone Alliance High School Solo Competition, was second chair Alto Saxophone in the 2018 ILMEA All-State Honors Band, Principal Alto Saxophone in the 2018 District 9 ILMEA Band, performed at the 2018 ILMEA All-State Showcase concert as a member of the Huntley Wind Ensemble, and received an honorable mention for the keyboard category of the 2019 ILMEA Composition Contest. He has studied for 2 summers with Debra Richtmeyer at Illinois Summer Youth Music Academy, and 1 summer with Dr. Otis Murphy at the 2018 Indiana University Summer Saxophone Academy.
Previous teachers include Wayne Richards; Soprano chair of the Chicago Saxophone Quartet, Joseph Connor; Current Doctoral student, Teaching Assistant at Northwestern University, and Alto chair of the Fuse Quartet, and Taimur Sullivan; Professor of Saxophone at Northwestern University.
Master of Music
Nathan Maher
Mt. Prospect, IL
Performance and Literature
Nathan Maher is a senior in music education studying under Debra Richtmeyer and Scott Augustine. He also studied under Richard Pancratz for five years and Peter Brusen for two years. Nathan graduated from Prospect High School in Mt. Prospect, Illinois where he received the John Philip Sousa Band Award and held positions as section leader in the jazz bands, orchestras, and concert bands. He was also the Alto Saxophonist for the Elements Saxophone Quartet, performing in for the award winning Fuego Quartet and at the 2018 North American Saxophone Alliance Regional Conference.
At the University of Illinois, Nathan is a member of the National Association for Music Education (NAFME) and the Teaching Assistant of the University of Illinois Saxophone Ensemble. He is currently a member of the Wind Orchestra and is the tenor chair for the Fidelis Saxophone Quartet.
Mt. Prospect, IL
Performance and Literature
Nathan Maher is a senior in music education studying under Debra Richtmeyer and Scott Augustine. He also studied under Richard Pancratz for five years and Peter Brusen for two years. Nathan graduated from Prospect High School in Mt. Prospect, Illinois where he received the John Philip Sousa Band Award and held positions as section leader in the jazz bands, orchestras, and concert bands. He was also the Alto Saxophonist for the Elements Saxophone Quartet, performing in for the award winning Fuego Quartet and at the 2018 North American Saxophone Alliance Regional Conference.
At the University of Illinois, Nathan is a member of the National Association for Music Education (NAFME) and the Teaching Assistant of the University of Illinois Saxophone Ensemble. He is currently a member of the Wind Orchestra and is the tenor chair for the Fidelis Saxophone Quartet.
Doctor of Musical Arts
Jonathan Dufresne
Houma, LA
Performance and Literature
Jonathan Dufresne is a Houma, Louisiana native. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Louisiana State University, where he studied under Dr. Griffin Campbell and Professor Doug Stone and a Master of Music degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he studied under Professor Debra Richtmeyer. At LSU, he was bestowed many awards and scholarships such as the LSU Premiere Music Scholarship Award, the Jury Lagniappe Award, and the Marine Corps Music Scholarship, to name a few.
During this time, Jonathan has been an active performer and educator. As a soloist, he has competed in several solo competitions such as the 2019 North American Saxophone Alliance Region 6 Collegiate Solo Competition, where he placed 2nd and most recently, being named winner of the 2022 University of Illinois Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition. Playing soprano in his Chimes Street Quartet, they placed 2nd in the graduate division of the 2017 NOLA Chamber Fest, 3rd place in 2019, and competed at the regional level of MTNA in 2018. While pursuing his M.M. degree, as the tenor saxophonist of the Cyan Quartet, they finished as finalists in the Coltman Chamber Music Competition, semi-finalists in the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition, and performed Chen Yi’s saxophone quartet concerto, Ba Yin with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Wind Symphony. Additionally, he has maintained an active performance agenda throughout the community from being invited to perform as a soloist with the LMEA All State Orchestra, the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra, church services, wedding ceremonies, and much more. Strongly valuing versatility, Jonathan has been hired to perform alongside cover bands and occasional celebrities such as Ginuwine and Robin Thicke, for numerous wedding receptions, corporate events, private parties, festivals, and sporting events including the 2020 Allstate Sugar Bowl in New Orleans, Louisiana.
As an educator, Jonathan has held several teaching positions as a saxophone instructor at middle and high schools across the south Louisiana region. Two of these positions include saxophone instructor at Juban Parc Jr. High School in Juban, Louisiana and Dutchtown High School in Geismar, Louisiana. Throughout his time in Louisiana, Jonathan has consistently maintained a private studio of 11-15 students, many of which have participated in the LMEA All State ensembles.
Jonathan is will be pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in saxophone performance and literature at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign under the tutelage of Professor Debra Richtmeyer in the Fall of 2022.
Houma, LA
Performance and Literature
Jonathan Dufresne is a Houma, Louisiana native. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Louisiana State University, where he studied under Dr. Griffin Campbell and Professor Doug Stone and a Master of Music degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he studied under Professor Debra Richtmeyer. At LSU, he was bestowed many awards and scholarships such as the LSU Premiere Music Scholarship Award, the Jury Lagniappe Award, and the Marine Corps Music Scholarship, to name a few.
During this time, Jonathan has been an active performer and educator. As a soloist, he has competed in several solo competitions such as the 2019 North American Saxophone Alliance Region 6 Collegiate Solo Competition, where he placed 2nd and most recently, being named winner of the 2022 University of Illinois Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition. Playing soprano in his Chimes Street Quartet, they placed 2nd in the graduate division of the 2017 NOLA Chamber Fest, 3rd place in 2019, and competed at the regional level of MTNA in 2018. While pursuing his M.M. degree, as the tenor saxophonist of the Cyan Quartet, they finished as finalists in the Coltman Chamber Music Competition, semi-finalists in the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition, and performed Chen Yi’s saxophone quartet concerto, Ba Yin with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Wind Symphony. Additionally, he has maintained an active performance agenda throughout the community from being invited to perform as a soloist with the LMEA All State Orchestra, the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra, church services, wedding ceremonies, and much more. Strongly valuing versatility, Jonathan has been hired to perform alongside cover bands and occasional celebrities such as Ginuwine and Robin Thicke, for numerous wedding receptions, corporate events, private parties, festivals, and sporting events including the 2020 Allstate Sugar Bowl in New Orleans, Louisiana.
As an educator, Jonathan has held several teaching positions as a saxophone instructor at middle and high schools across the south Louisiana region. Two of these positions include saxophone instructor at Juban Parc Jr. High School in Juban, Louisiana and Dutchtown High School in Geismar, Louisiana. Throughout his time in Louisiana, Jonathan has consistently maintained a private studio of 11-15 students, many of which have participated in the LMEA All State ensembles.
Jonathan is will be pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in saxophone performance and literature at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign under the tutelage of Professor Debra Richtmeyer in the Fall of 2022.
Wilson Poffenberger
Hagerstown, MD
Performance and Literature
Saxophonist Wilson Poffenberger is quickly establishing himself as a soloist, educator, and chamber musician. Currently, Mr. Poffenberger is pursuing a Doctoral of Musical Arts degree in saxophone performance and literature at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign where he is the split jazz and classical teaching assistant for artist teacher Debra Richtmeyer. As a soloist, Mr. Poffenberger has performed with the Dana Symphony Orchestra, Youngstown State University Percussion Ensemble, and Hagerstown Municipal Band. He has presented recitals at the International Navy Band Saxophone Symposium (2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017), North American Saxophone Alliance Biannual Conference (2014), Duquesne Saxophone Day (2014), and the Fondation des Etats-Unis. Recent accomplishments include grand prize at the 2017 Enkor International Woodwind and Brass Competition, winner of the 2016-2017 Harriet Hale Woolley award, first prize at the 2014 Dana Young Artist competition, semi-finalist in the 2014 International Saxophone Symposium and Competition, semi-finalist in the 2014 North American Saxophone Alliance Collegiate Solo Competition, and finalist in the 2013 Butler Symphony Orchestra Young Artist Competition.
A strong advocate for new music, Mr. Poffenberger has premiered works by Guillermo Lago, Gregory Wanamaker, Robert Lemay, Alexis Bacon, Andrew Koss, Alex Miller, and Aaron Lockhart. He has maintained a private studio in the Youngstown, Ohio area, providing lessons to students of all levels. Mr. Poffenberger received his Masters of Music degree from Youngstown State University and his Bachelors of Music Education degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with additional study at CRR Boulogne-Billancourt in Paris, France. He has performed in masterclasses with Otis Murphy, Chien-Kwan Lin, Michael Ibrahim, Timothy McAllister, Vincent David, Claude Delangle, Arno Bornkamp, Masataka Hirano, and Christian Wirth. His primary teachers include Jean-Michel Goury, James Umble, Keith Young, and Kent Engelhardt. Mr. Poffenberger performs exclusively on Selmer Paris saxophones and mouthpieces.
Hagerstown, MD
Performance and Literature
Saxophonist Wilson Poffenberger is quickly establishing himself as a soloist, educator, and chamber musician. Currently, Mr. Poffenberger is pursuing a Doctoral of Musical Arts degree in saxophone performance and literature at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign where he is the split jazz and classical teaching assistant for artist teacher Debra Richtmeyer. As a soloist, Mr. Poffenberger has performed with the Dana Symphony Orchestra, Youngstown State University Percussion Ensemble, and Hagerstown Municipal Band. He has presented recitals at the International Navy Band Saxophone Symposium (2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017), North American Saxophone Alliance Biannual Conference (2014), Duquesne Saxophone Day (2014), and the Fondation des Etats-Unis. Recent accomplishments include grand prize at the 2017 Enkor International Woodwind and Brass Competition, winner of the 2016-2017 Harriet Hale Woolley award, first prize at the 2014 Dana Young Artist competition, semi-finalist in the 2014 International Saxophone Symposium and Competition, semi-finalist in the 2014 North American Saxophone Alliance Collegiate Solo Competition, and finalist in the 2013 Butler Symphony Orchestra Young Artist Competition.
A strong advocate for new music, Mr. Poffenberger has premiered works by Guillermo Lago, Gregory Wanamaker, Robert Lemay, Alexis Bacon, Andrew Koss, Alex Miller, and Aaron Lockhart. He has maintained a private studio in the Youngstown, Ohio area, providing lessons to students of all levels. Mr. Poffenberger received his Masters of Music degree from Youngstown State University and his Bachelors of Music Education degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with additional study at CRR Boulogne-Billancourt in Paris, France. He has performed in masterclasses with Otis Murphy, Chien-Kwan Lin, Michael Ibrahim, Timothy McAllister, Vincent David, Claude Delangle, Arno Bornkamp, Masataka Hirano, and Christian Wirth. His primary teachers include Jean-Michel Goury, James Umble, Keith Young, and Kent Engelhardt. Mr. Poffenberger performs exclusively on Selmer Paris saxophones and mouthpieces.
Jack Thorpe
Snellville, GA
Performance and Literature
Teaching Assistant
Saxophonist Jack Thorpe is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in saxophone performance and literature from the University of Illinois. Thorpe holds a B.M. in saxophone performance from Georgia State University where he was the recipient of the Presser Undergraduate Scholar Award and an M.M. in saxophone performance from Stephen F. Austin State University where he was the saxophone studio teaching assistant. As a soloist and chamber musician he has performed throughout the United States and Japan and has been featured as a concerto soloist with the Georgia State University Symphonic Wind Ensemble, the Stephen F. Austin State University Symphonic Orchestra, and the University of Illinois Symphony Orchestra. As the alto player in the Versa Quartet, he won first place in the 2020 North American Saxophone Alliance’s Quartet Competition. Thorpe’s main teachers include Jan Berry Baker, Nathan Nabb, and Debra Richtmeyer with additional study under Frederick L. Hemke.
Snellville, GA
Performance and Literature
Teaching Assistant
Saxophonist Jack Thorpe is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in saxophone performance and literature from the University of Illinois. Thorpe holds a B.M. in saxophone performance from Georgia State University where he was the recipient of the Presser Undergraduate Scholar Award and an M.M. in saxophone performance from Stephen F. Austin State University where he was the saxophone studio teaching assistant. As a soloist and chamber musician he has performed throughout the United States and Japan and has been featured as a concerto soloist with the Georgia State University Symphonic Wind Ensemble, the Stephen F. Austin State University Symphonic Orchestra, and the University of Illinois Symphony Orchestra. As the alto player in the Versa Quartet, he won first place in the 2020 North American Saxophone Alliance’s Quartet Competition. Thorpe’s main teachers include Jan Berry Baker, Nathan Nabb, and Debra Richtmeyer with additional study under Frederick L. Hemke.
Non-Majors
Matthew Storie
Pendleton, SC
Jazz Performance
Teaching Assistant
Jazz and classical saxophonist Matthew Storie is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Jazz Performance at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He earned his Bachelor of Music degree in Saxophone Performance from Furman University where he studied with Dr. Matt Olson. Recently, he earned his Master of Music degree in Jazz Performance at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Matthew has had the opportunity to perform with jazz legends Jiggs Whigham, Bob “Rakalam” Moses, and Brad Dutz. He can be heard on the 2018 CD Welcome to Earth with the Greenville Jazz Collective, a nonprofit big band, based in Greenville SC. He recently released an EP with his jazz quintet Simply This Quintet that exclusively features original compositions by members of the band. This EP Simply This can be heard on all major streaming platforms. Matthew is currently the split jazz and classical teaching assistant for Professor Debra Richtmeyer and Professor Chip McNeill. He currently studies jazz and classical saxophone with Chip McNeill and Debra Richtmeyer.
Pendleton, SC
Jazz Performance
Teaching Assistant
Jazz and classical saxophonist Matthew Storie is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Jazz Performance at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He earned his Bachelor of Music degree in Saxophone Performance from Furman University where he studied with Dr. Matt Olson. Recently, he earned his Master of Music degree in Jazz Performance at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Matthew has had the opportunity to perform with jazz legends Jiggs Whigham, Bob “Rakalam” Moses, and Brad Dutz. He can be heard on the 2018 CD Welcome to Earth with the Greenville Jazz Collective, a nonprofit big band, based in Greenville SC. He recently released an EP with his jazz quintet Simply This Quintet that exclusively features original compositions by members of the band. This EP Simply This can be heard on all major streaming platforms. Matthew is currently the split jazz and classical teaching assistant for Professor Debra Richtmeyer and Professor Chip McNeill. He currently studies jazz and classical saxophone with Chip McNeill and Debra Richtmeyer.
Lisa Altaner
Champaign, IL
Music Education
Lisa Altaner is a junior studying Music Education from Champaign, IL. Lisa graduated from Champaign Central High School where she enjoyed participating in jazz, marching, and concert bands. She was an early member of the St. Patrick’s Youth Orchestra (SPYO) and became its conductor/music director in 2019. During her time with SPYO, she established a music scholarship program to assist students with private lessons and helped the orchestra to double in size.
Here at the University of Illinois, Lisa participates in concert bands and the Marching Illini where she is a member of the piccolo section. Lisa will serve as the president of UIUC’s chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi for the 2022-23 school year. In addition to her involvement with the saxophone studio, Lisa is also a member of the flute studio.
Champaign, IL
Music Education
Lisa Altaner is a junior studying Music Education from Champaign, IL. Lisa graduated from Champaign Central High School where she enjoyed participating in jazz, marching, and concert bands. She was an early member of the St. Patrick’s Youth Orchestra (SPYO) and became its conductor/music director in 2019. During her time with SPYO, she established a music scholarship program to assist students with private lessons and helped the orchestra to double in size.
Here at the University of Illinois, Lisa participates in concert bands and the Marching Illini where she is a member of the piccolo section. Lisa will serve as the president of UIUC’s chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi for the 2022-23 school year. In addition to her involvement with the saxophone studio, Lisa is also a member of the flute studio.
Joseph Kuo
San Diego, CA
Electrical Engineering
Joseph Kuo is a native of San Diego, California and is currently pursuing a Doctoral of Philosophy in Electrical and Computer Engineering where he is a research assistant and is currently being advised by Dr. Mark Anastasio. His primary research areas are in Transcranial Photoacoustic Computed Tomography, Ultrasound Computed Tomography. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
As a saxophone player, Joseph is currently studying under Matthew Storie and has previously studied from Scott Augustine, Wilson Poffenberger, Howard Weiss and Peter DeLuke.
San Diego, CA
Electrical Engineering
Joseph Kuo is a native of San Diego, California and is currently pursuing a Doctoral of Philosophy in Electrical and Computer Engineering where he is a research assistant and is currently being advised by Dr. Mark Anastasio. His primary research areas are in Transcranial Photoacoustic Computed Tomography, Ultrasound Computed Tomography. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
As a saxophone player, Joseph is currently studying under Matthew Storie and has previously studied from Scott Augustine, Wilson Poffenberger, Howard Weiss and Peter DeLuke.
Noah Treat
Music Education
Noah Treat is a freshman majoring in music education and business at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, studying saxophone under Professor Debra Richtmeyer and Jack Thorpe. He is currently a member of the Hindsley Symphonic Band, Sax Ensemble, Marching Illini, and Tenor Saxophonist of the Undergraduate Quartet.
As a saxophonist, he has performed in the ILMEA Concert and Jazz Band for three years, going to All-State as the Principle Tenor Saxophonist in the 2020 ILMEA All-State Honors Band. Alongside a multitude of high school bands and choirs, he has also participated in ensembles such as the Chicago Saxophone Institute and the Southwest Community Concert Band.
Previous teachers include Damien Aherne, Brian Everson, Christopher Pitlik, Lara Reagan of St. Xavier University, Dr. Michael Weiss-Holmes of Roosevelt University, and Professor Taimur Sullivan of Northwestern University.
Music Education
Noah Treat is a freshman majoring in music education and business at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, studying saxophone under Professor Debra Richtmeyer and Jack Thorpe. He is currently a member of the Hindsley Symphonic Band, Sax Ensemble, Marching Illini, and Tenor Saxophonist of the Undergraduate Quartet.
As a saxophonist, he has performed in the ILMEA Concert and Jazz Band for three years, going to All-State as the Principle Tenor Saxophonist in the 2020 ILMEA All-State Honors Band. Alongside a multitude of high school bands and choirs, he has also participated in ensembles such as the Chicago Saxophone Institute and the Southwest Community Concert Band.
Previous teachers include Damien Aherne, Brian Everson, Christopher Pitlik, Lara Reagan of St. Xavier University, Dr. Michael Weiss-Holmes of Roosevelt University, and Professor Taimur Sullivan of Northwestern University.
