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Lawrence University's Conservatory of Music is marking its 150th anniversary in the 2024-25 academic year. Over the years, the institution has been instrumental in shaping the careers of many musicians. Alumni have shared their experiences and how their time at the Conservatory influenced their professional journeys.

Alexander York, a 2014 graduate, recently joined the State Theater in Linz, Austria, as a full-time soloist. Reflecting on his education, he said, "The main thing that stands out about my time in the Conservatory was the boundless access to try out new things and develop an artistic personality."

Javier Arau, class of 1998 and founder of New York Jazz Academy, highlighted the dedication of his professors: "I never took this for granted... To have so many full-time faculty... challenging and fueling me for five years was the greatest thrill."

Laura Hauer, who graduated in 2009 and now teaches violin and piano in Mexico, emphasized her teachers' influence: "My indefatigable and dedicated teachers were the most notable part of my LU Conservatory education."

Kirsten Lies-Warfield ’94 retired from The United States Army Band after serving as their first female trombonist. She recalled her time at Lawrence as nurturing: "The culture of the Con was so nurturing to me in whatever it was I decided I wanted to do."

James Gandre '81 is now president of Manhattan School of Music. He valued being exposed to both classical and jazz music during his studies: "The atmosphere was one of mutual support and encouragement."

Stephen Edwards ’85 reflected on his diverse experiences at Lawrence: "I always tell everybody, I am in the ‘music business,’ so I have to be equal parts creative artist and savvy businessman."

Schuyler Thornton ’14 praised Lawrence's sense of community: "Many musicians have conservatory experiences that are cutthroat... Lawrence provided a nurturing environment that still pushed me to be my best."

Evan Williams ’10 appreciated Lawrence's flexibility during his studies: "They let me be unsure about what I wanted to do, and that helped shape the career I created."

Bonnie Alger ’06 noted how supportive faculty were when she pursued conducting: "No one looked at me like I was silly when I said I wanted to go to graduate school for conducting."

Emily Richter ’20 expressed gratitude for her comprehensive education at Lawrence: "I'm so grateful for my time at Lawrence that didn’t just teach me how to sing but taught me how to feel and think deeply about the world."

Brooke Joyce ’95 is now composer-in-residence at Luther College. He credited his instructors with giving him confidence: "They gave me both a strong musical foundation and the confidence to find my own creative voice."

David Heller '81 teaches music at Trinity University. He remembered close interactions with faculty: "Our professors and mentors were demanding but supportive... We had professors who knew how to teach undergraduate musicians at that point in their lives."