Music Huskie Spotlight
Jessalynn Cisna, Master of Music, ’22
What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study? I am working on a master’s in music, specializing in piano performance.
What is your favorite thing about studying and/or playing music at NIU? My favorite thing about studying music at NIU is the opportunity to learn and grow alongside other musicians. I’ve learned so much just by playing in ensembles, listening to in-class discussions, or accompanying students for their jury and recital pieces. I have gained some really valuable experiences here at NIU, and I’m grateful for those opportunities to mature as a pianist and musician.
Why did you choose NIU to study music? I chose to study music at NIU because I had a great experience during the application and audition process. I felt very welcomed at NIU when I came to audition and felt that the staff and instructors strove to provide a personal experience for me.
Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course do they teach? One of my favorite professors has been Dr. [William] Goldenberg. He teaches upper-level piano lessons. Dr. Goldenberg has always been very caring and kind. He offers excellent feedback and encouragement!
What do you do to relax or recharge? I enjoy spending time outdoors!
Huskie Spotlights
Joe Beribak, ’25, Composition
Music Huskie SpotlightHuskie Spotlight: Joe Beribak, '25, CompositionWhat did you want to be when you were growing up? When I was a boy, I wanted to be a Catholic priest. When I grew a little older, I loved amusement parks and wanted to design roller-coasters. This...
Annika Roberts, ’23, Cello Performance and Psychology
Music Huskie SpotlightHuskie Spotlight: Annika Roberts, '23, Cello Performance and PsychologyWhat did you want to be when you were growing up? I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a musician because I come from a musical family. Pursing a degree in cello...
Paisley Stevens, ’24, Music Education
Music Huskie SpotlightHuskie Spotlight: Paisley Stevens, '24, Music EducationWhat did you want to be when you were growing up? When I was growing up, I wanted to be a professional ballet dancer. I pursued ballet throughout high school and did get to chance with some...
Andrea LaFranzo, ’24, Orchestra Conducting
Music Huskie SpotlightHuskie Spotlight: Andrea LaFranzo, '24, Orchestral ConductingWhat did you want to be when you were growing up? There was no doubt at the age of 13, after my first experience playing in a symphony orchestra, that I wanted to be a cellist and a...