The Stangeland Family Youth Choral Academy has shaped generations of passionate musicians, educators, and leaders. Our alumni go on to inspire communities, elevate the choral arts, and carry forward the values of musical excellence, collaboration, and service. We’re proud to celebrate their accomplishments and honor the lasting impact SFYCA continues to have on the future of choral music.
The SFYCA Alumni Committee works to build a supportive community of friends and artists, empower alumni to sing and perform together again, and support the organization that first fostered our shared love of music and performance. If you’re an alum interested in getting involved, reconnecting with fellow SFYCA participants, or supporting current students, we’d love to hear from you.
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Harrison Hintzsche (2011)
Professional classical singer
Harrison is a member of leading choral ensembles including Oregon Bach Festival Chorus, the Santa Fe Desert Chorale, Ensemble Altera, and Conspirare, among others. Recent recording credits include the bass arias and role of Pilate in Bach’s St. John Passion with Nic McGegan and Cantata Collective, as well as various Lieder by Luise Greger on New Muses Project’s inaugural self-titled album. Originally from DeKalb, Illinois, he currently resides in Brooklyn, New York. Read full story.
Joseph Kemper (2004-2007)
Choral Director and Educator
Dr. Joseph Kemper is an accomplished choral conductor, singer, composer, and educator. A Portland, Oregon native, his musical journey began in his home state, where he participated in the SFYCA for four years before returning as an Activity Director. In fall 2025, Dr. Kemper will begin a new appointment as Assistant Professor of Music at St. Olaf College, where he will conduct the Chapel Choir and Viking Chorus. Read full story.
Sarah Brauer (2000, 2001)
Professional classical singer
Sarah is a member of Oregon Bach Festival Chorus, Conspirare and has performed with the Santa Fe Opera, Santa Fe Symphony, New Mexico Philharmonic, Houston Bach Society, Aspen Music Festival and the Salem Chamber Orchestra, among others. Read full story.
Gina Saputo (1998)
Professional jazz vocalist
Gina participated in SFYCA’s 1998 inaugural season and is now described as one of LA’s most in demand Jazz singers. SFYCA is so proud to have her among a large number of SFYCA alumni who have gone on to launch extraordinary careers. Read full story.
Katherine Goforth (2006-2009)
Professional opera singer
Katherine is a transgender woman and opera singer, who excels in a wide range of roles across the gender spectrum. She is a proud representative of LGBTQ community and advocates for the inclusion of all voices in the performing arts. But it wasn’t always bright and rosy for Katherine … Read full story
Katie Simon (2006-2008)
Early Childhood Development Instructor
Katie recently landed a classroom teaching job in an inclusive classroom working with students experiencing disabilities and those who are neurotypical. She incorporates music therapy in her classroom every day. Read full story
Maddie Smoot (2017-2019)
Vocal Music Teacher
Maddie recently landed her first teaching job after graduating from St. Olaf with a vocal music education degree. She credits SFYCA for her inspiration to pursue a career in choral music education. Read full story
Emmanuel “Onry” Henreid (2006-2008)
Professional singer
Onry is an award-winning singer, actor, dancer, and pianist based in Portland, Oregon, and is doing amazing work since his time with SFYCA. Read full story
Carolyn Bacon (2004-2006)
Professional singer touring with CATS North Am. Tour
Carolyn’s unique and circuitous path to becoming a cast member of the 2021/22 North American Tour of CATS is a compelling testament to how SFYCA can make dreams come true. Read full story
Nicholas Meyer (2004-2006)
Owner of Lydian Music Studios
Nicholas shares the importance of staying positive, maintaining a good attitude, and having fun – in music and in life! Read full story
Jack Barton (2010-2011)
Professional performer in Dueling Pianos
Jack along with his brother Dan share their joys of performing together as the Dueling Pianos group and how SFYCA helped shape his path to success. Read full story
Lisa Forkish (2006-2008)
Singer, songwriter and educator
Lisa Forkish, founder and former director of 5-time national champion high school a cappella group, Vocal Rush, releases her fifth album, “From the Ashes”. Read full story