Welcome New Full-Time Faculty
Meet Alyssa Barna, assistant professor of music theory
Alyssa Barna joins the faculty from the Eastman School of Music, where she earned her PhD in music theory. Her current research centers on the study of form in popular music.
What was your favorite class?
A theory class, of course! I took a form and analysis course during my sophomore year of my undergraduate program. This course broadened the applicability and scope of what music theory and analysis could do with music of all kinds. That professor became my first theory mentor.
What is the first thing you will put on a shelf in your office?
The textbooks for Theory 1 are already on my shelf—I’m ready for you, students! Next, I will definitely get some speakers so I can immerse myself in listening.
What is one of the best concerts you have ever been to?
I attended the “A Concert for New York,” a concert featuring the New York Philharmonic, during which they performed Mahler’s Symphony no. 2 on the tenth anniversary of September 11, 2001. I grew up in the NYC area and remember the tragedy, so it was an incredibly moving experience of remembrance that I will never forget.
What aspects of life in Minnesota are you most and least excited about?
I am excited to live in a vibrant metropolitan area that appreciates and invests in the arts, culture, and communities. As for unfortunate qualities, I think most might say “the winters,” but I moved here from upstate New York, so I’m ready!
Read more about Professor Barna.
Meet Marissa Benedict, assistant professor of trumpet
Marissa Benedict has joined the School of Music faculty from California, where she was on the faculty at California State University-San Bernardino and instructed at the University of Southern California.
Who has served as a mentor for you in your career?
At different stages of my education and performance career there have been and still are mentors in my life. The one that stands out most is Boyde Hood, my trumpet professor at the University of Southern California. Boyde was so helpful in the growth of my playing and maturity while I was in school. We have remained friends (and colleagues) over the past 39 years, and when I just need to talk or say hello or ask advice, he is always there. His quote whenever our conversation is done: “If there is anything I can do for you, just let me know.”
What would you consider your biggest setback?
In 1997, I was in a car accident that left me unable to play for about six months. I had three kids under the age of seven, my husband was working, and I couldn’t play or move too much. I had to learn the patience of not trying to rush things. Boyde Hood called and said “if it hurts, don’t play.” That rang in my head until I was able to play without pain.
What is the first thing you will hang in your new office?
David Baldwin was gracious enough to leave me a large picture of Bach’s Toccata and Fugue as you walk in to the studio. I will add a few new pictures, including one of me with my high school band director Gordon Lowe, my private jazz teacher John Copolla, and my private classical teacher Joe Alessi Sr., who attended my high school graduation party to wish me luck—something I will never forget.
Read more about Professor Benedict.
Tutti. (Italian) all. every musician to take part.
Tutti is the annual magazine of the University of Minnesota School of Music.
