In June of 2025, the WMU University Chorale took the stage at Carnegie Hall, an unforgettable milestone under the direction of Dr. Amanda Quist (B.M.’00, Music Education; M.M.’06 Choral Conducting). The performance brought additional members of the WMU choral program together with 270 singers from across America in a powerful musical moment that made a long-lasting memory.
“It really is overwhelming,” Amanda said of the experience. “When you step on the stage, you realize the weight of history that looms in the air, all of those who have stood there before us. It transcends time. I remember feeling incredibly proud of our students, and so joyful to hear them in that amazing space.”
The invitation came after a livestream of the Fall Choral Showcase caught the attention of Dr. Craig Arnold, Amanda’s former mentor and longtime director of the University Chorale. He extended the invitation to perform at Carnegie, and she embraced the opportunity to bring her students into that storied space.
“Conducting the Chorale and members of Anima and Amphion on that stage was truly magical,” she said, “and having my husband Tim Brent, also a WMU alum, along with fellow alumni Tina Gorter, Curtis Gulledge and Chris Bookie share the stage with us made it even more special.”
The Carnegie Hall performance is just one example of the excellence that defines WMU’s choral studies program. With a legacy of national and international recognition, the University Chorale has performed at prestigious conferences and won major competitions abroad. “We have an amazing choral program alongside our award-winning vocal jazz program led by Greg Jasperse,” Amanda noted. “Our shared students and vision are an important part of building on our legacy of excellence in ensemble singing in all genres.”
Looking ahead, the choirs are preparing for a dynamic season that includes a performance of Mahler 3 with the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, a Tenor-Bass Valentine’s Day concert and the beloved Choral Christmas event. In partnership with Fontana and the Bullock Series, the ensemble recently welcomed the internationally acclaimed group Voces8 to campus as guest artists and performed with them in the Dalton Center Recital Hall.
Amanda’s journey to the podium began at Western, where she was first inspired by the University Chorale under Dr. Arnold’s direction in the 1990s. After earning her bachelor’s degree in music education, she taught high school in Grand Rapids before returning to WMU for her master’s degree in choral conducting. Her career has since included leadership roles at Westminster Choir College and the University of Miami, but returning to Western Michigan University felt like coming home.
As a conductor and educator, Amanda is passionate about helping students unlock their artistic voices. “Most people who go into music do so because they feel inspired by something they have experienced,” she said. “I love to help students build skills and confidence to unlock their artistic voice.”
She hopes the Carnegie Hall experience left a lasting impression on her students. “I hope they grow in their confidence and ability to see themselves in new ways,” she added. “Most importantly, I hope they felt inspired and connected to one another and the audience in those moments.”
Her advice to current Broncos? “Remember that anything is possible, and to lean into the incredible resources we have right in front of us, including these types of opportunities to shine together.”
Do you have an alumni success story you’d like to share? We’d love to hear it! Submit your ideas to WMUalumni.org/YourStory.