Our staff is small but mighty. A combination of well-known leaders in the music industry, experts in non-profit management, and administrative dynamos, we ensure VocalEssence lives up to its reputation as one of the leading arts organizations in the nation. Take a minute to learn more about us.

Artistic Staff (biographies)

Philip Brunelle, Artistic Director
G. Phillip Shoultz, III, Associate Artistic Director
Robert Graham, Learning and Engagement Manager | Conductor, Vintage Voices
Mary Jo Gothmann, Accompanist
John Jensen, VocalEssence Vintage Voices Accompanist

Administrative Team (biographies and contact information)

Azure Anderson, Executive Assistant
Mary Ann Aufderheide, Executive Director
Jeff Bina, Director of Finance and Operations
Rhiannon Fiskradatz, Learning and Engagement Manager
Laura Holst, Development and Marketing Associate
Emma Jirele, Learning and Engagement Manager
Ethan Johnson, Director of Artistic Operations
Amanda Timmer, Director of Marketing and Communications
Elissa Weller, Director of Development

VocalEssence Teaching Artists

Timothy Berry, Vocalist/Composer/Percussionist
Patricia Brown, Dance Instructor/Choreographer
Brandon Commodore, Drummer/Music Producer
Ginger Commodore, Singer/Songwriter/Actress
Karla Nweje, Instructor/Dancer/Choreographer
Julio Morales, Composer/Pianist
T. Mychael Rambo, Musician/Singer
Anita Ruth, Musician/Pianist
Roxane Wallace, Dancer/Choreographer

Want to join VocalEssence?

Learn about employment opportunities or audition for our ensembles.