HPU Music Students Perform with Iconic Tenor Andrea Bocelli
Ten High Point University faculty, students and alumni recently performed on stage with iconic Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli in Raleigh. Pictured from left before the concert at PNC Arena are Dr. Oliver Stoutner, Emily Krol, Laura Carskadden, Noah Sigsworth, Ken Davis, Jaclyn Surso, Ward Mann, Emma Longboat, Gavin Conniff and Dr. Scott MacLeod.
HIGH POINT, N.C., Feb. 16, 2024 – Ten High Point University faculty, students and alumni recently performed on stage with iconic Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli at PNC Arena in Raleigh.
The Valentine’s Day concert marked Bocelli’s first performance in Raleigh. Dr. Scott MacLeod, HPU associate professor of music and chorus master of North Carolina Opera, was contacted by Bocelli’s management in January to assemble and prepare a 60-person chorus for the concert. MacLeod sang in the ensemble along with three current HPU students, three alumni and three other faculty members.
The three current HPU students who performed were freshmen Gavin Conniff and Ward Mann, and junior Emma Longboat. They were joined by alumni Noah Sigsworth, who graduated in 2021; Laura Carskadden, a 2019 graduate; and Emily Krol, a 2017 graduate. Participating faculty included Jaclyn Surso, adjunct instructor of voice; Ken Davis, adjunct instructor of piano; and Dr. Oliver Stoutner, assistant professor of management and director of business fellows.
“It’s really special for me to be able to share both my worlds: My professional world as chorus master for a major opera company and my world as an educator at High Point University,” said MacLeod. “To see my students, my alums and my colleagues come together to put on something of this magnitude is a really rewarding experience for me.”
As one of the most recognizable voices in the entertainment industry, Bocelli has sold nearly 90 million records over the past 30 years. He has performed for audiences across the globe, including at the Olympics and the World Cup, and he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2010.
Bocelli’s concert in Raleigh featured music that helped the audience celebrate Valentine’s Day with their loved ones.
“This is probably the best opportunity I could ask for as a voice major, but it’s also my grandpa’s favorite artist so I feel like I’m really making him proud by singing with Andrea Bocelli,” Conniff said.
Mann expressed excitement for this opportunity to be surrounded by experienced singers and to learn from professional musicians.
“Obviously, it’s pretty amazing to perform with Andrea Bocelli, but to be able to perform with other colleagues and students at High Point University is a wonderful opportunity,” said Surso.
Davis said he enjoyed working with colleagues from various departments as they prepared to sing in the choir.
“I was thrilled when Scott asked me to sing with the group,” said Stoutner. “I’ve sung with him a couple of times over the years, and he’s an outstanding musician. Also, I get the chance to sing with one of my current students. It’s really exciting.”