Both Kevin and Andrew completed bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Houghton, where they studied under Dr. Brandon Johnson, now the director of choral activities at Eastern Michigan University.
Kevin, who tied for third place in the Community Choir division, is currently teaching at Temple University near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Prior to his time at Temple, Kevin served on the music faculties at Cairn University, Ursinus College, University of Iowa, and Houghton College, where he was also recruitment coordinator for the undergraduate program. In addition, he is a column editor for the American Choral Directors Association. Kevin is pursuing his Doctorate of Musical Arts in choral conducting and pedagogy from the University of Iowa.
Andrew, who took home first place in the High School Choir division, currently serves as director of choral music at Indian Springs School in Birmingham, Alabama. He leads four choral ensembles, conducts a yearly concert choir tour, and leads a biannual international tour with the chamber choir. Prior to his time in Alabama, Andrew served as director of the Maryland Chamber Artists, assistant conductor for the Maryland Choral Society, and choir director at the Community College of Baltimore County. In 2017 he was one of 12 conductors to study with Grammy Award-winning artist Craig Hella Johnson at his choral conducting symposium.
The American Prize has recognized and rewarded excellence in the performing arts in the United States since 2010, with competitions in more than 15 areas, including conducting, composition, orchestra, arts marketing, chamber ensemble, musical theater companies, and more. Each competition spans multiple categories, providing ample opportunities for conductors and performers from across the country to showcase their musical talents and prowess.
