Two graduating students from the University of Arizona School of Music have been recognized for their exceptional achievements in performance, scholarship, and leadership: Macy Halverson, Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance, and Christopher Werner, Doctor of Musical Arts in Bassoon Performance.
Macy Halverson – Outstanding Senior (BM, Vocal Performance)
Macy Halverson has been named Outstanding Senior in recognition of her artistic excellence, leadership, and engagement within the vocal performance program.
As a member of the Symphonic Choir, Halverson served as soprano section leader and appeared frequently as a soloist, earning recognition from faculty for her consistency, musical maturity, and continued artistic development. Her early performance experiences, including Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro during her first year, played a key role in shaping her commitment to opera and vocal performance.
Beyond ensemble work, Halverson has developed a strong record of service and leadership. She interned with a local enrichment program, supporting large-scale event coordination, student and family programming, and drama instruction. She also served as a student representative for the National Opera Association for two years and directed choir at her local church, extending her work as a musician into the broader community.
Reflecting on her time at the University of Arizona, Halverson shared, “While studying here, I have been able to attend masterclasses and recitals by some of the greatest performers in the world. Every class I have taken has opened my eyes to the possibilities that exist around me.”
Following graduation, she will join the Tucson Desert Song Festival as a fundraising consultant while continuing to pursue performance opportunities in opera and musical theatre.
Christopher Werner – Outstanding Graduate (DMA, Bassoon Performance)
Christopher Werner has been named Outstanding Graduate in recognition of their artistic versatility, scholarly inquiry, and commitment to expanding representation within Western art music.
Werner performed with both the Arizona Symphony and Wind Ensemble, alternating between bassoon and contrabassoon, and contributed to chamber music ensembles including the Fred Fox Graduate Wind Quintet and the Tumbleweed Quintet, where they also served in a leadership role as general manager.
Nominated by faculty members Dr. Marissa Olegario, Dr. Sara Fraker, and Dr. Jackie Glazier, Werner was recognized for their collaborative musicianship and wide-ranging artistic voice. In addition to their performance work, they balanced multiple professional responsibilities and actively pursued funding opportunities to support their creative work.
During their time at the University of Arizona, Werner was awarded a JustArts Fellowship for their project Queer Bassoon Music and the Queer Bassoon Coalition, which explores LGBTQ+ identity and representation within Western art music.
Following graduation, Werner will continue working as a music educator within the Tucson Unified School District while maintaining an active performance career in the region.
Reflecting on their experience, Werner said, “I have made expansive growths as a musician and a scholar during my time here, lasting connections with peers and professors — and I’m excited for the next chapter.”
Together, Halverson and Werner reflect the breadth of artistry, scholarship, and community engagement within the School of Music—each demonstrating a distinct and powerful voice as they move into the next stage of their careers.