News Stories

Diego Rivera talking into a mic with a bookshelf in the background

Diego Rivera on the 2026 National Collegiate Jazz Championship

December 12, 2025 | BSOM BODY

In this episode, we talk to Director of Jazz Studies Diego Rivera about being accepted to the 2026 National Collegiate Jazz Championship. We discuss the history of the Jazz Championship and what the Jazz Orchestra will encounter when they arrive in New York to compete.

Chloe Yofan talking into a mic with a bookcase in the background

Chloe Yofan on Becoming the Assistant Concertmaster of the Austin Symphony Orchestra

November 23, 2025 | BSOM BODY

In this episode, we talk to first-year Artist Diploma violinist Chloe Yofan. Chloe was recently appointed assistant concertmaster of the Austin Symphony Orchestra and also performs with the Austin Opera Orchestra. In addition, she won first place in the Music Teachers National Association’s Chamber Music Competition with her group, the Soha Quartet.

Kirsten Townander talking into a mic

Kirsten Townander on Composing Bicycle Face

November 14, 2025 | BSOM BODY

In this week's episode, we sit down with master of composition student Kirsten Townander. We talk about Kirsten's newest piece Bicycle Face, which will have its world premiere with the New Music Ensemble on Monday, November 17th, at 7:30 p.m. She discusses how her inspiration for the piece came from society's pushback against women riding bicycles in the 1890s.