Maya King’s journey at the University of Arizona has been defined by curiosity, creativity, and a steadfast commitment to music and education. Poised to graduate Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education, Maya has maintained a 3.89 GPA while developing an impressive record of academic, artistic, and leadership accomplishments.
From the moment she arrived at University of Arizona, Maya sought opportunities that would challenge her and expand her perspective. A semester abroad in Sydney, Australia, allowed her to engage in rigorous coursework at Macquarie University and complete a major ethnomusicology research project. This global experience not only broadened her understanding of music but also deepened her passion for teaching, giving her new insights into cultural approaches to music education.
Maya’s artistry as a vocalist has been remarkable. Under the mentorship of Dr. Kristin Dauphinais, she has won cash prizes in both the Quest for the Best and Amelia Riemann Opera Competitions, distinguishing herself among peers majoring in vocal performance. Beyond classical repertoire, she lent her unique voice to the University of Arizona Folk Ensemble, where she also served as a Vocal Section Leader. Her dedication and talent were recognized statewide when she received the Outstanding Future Choral Educator Award from the Arizona Music Educators Association in 2025.
Yet Maya’s impact extends far beyond performance. She has embraced leadership roles across campus, serving as Assistant Stage Manager for University of Arizona Opera Productions, Treasurer of the Symphonic Choir, and Vocal Section Leader for the Folk Rock Ensemble. In each role, she has fostered collaboration, mentorship, and community, creating spaces where peers can thrive and contribute their best work.
Equally impressive is Maya’s commitment to community outreach. She has taught private voice and piano lessons for three years, often providing pro-bono instruction for students in need. She has also worked with neurodivergent and special needs students, developing adaptive teaching methods that ensure every learner can experience the joy of music. Through her teaching, Maya combines artistry with empathy, encouraging students to grow both musically and personally.
Maya reflects on her time at University of Arizona as a period of growth, connection, and self-discovery. She credits the intimate environment of the School of Music and the College of Fine Arts with allowing her to flourish academically and artistically, while the broader university community offered countless opportunities to build lasting relationships and make a difference. One of her most cherished experiences was participating in the Folk Rock Ensemble, where she found a creative outlet that allowed her to feel like a “rockstar” while fostering collaboration and innovation.
Looking ahead, Maya will continue to shape the next generation of musicians. She plans to teach high school choir while pursuing a Master’s in Music Education with a research emphasis on student and teacher wellness. Her long-term vision includes earning a PhD in Music Education and continuing to make meaningful contributions to the field.
Maya King embodies the qualities of an outstanding senior: a brilliant musician, a dedicated educator, a thoughtful leader, and a compassionate community member. Her accomplishments, dedication, and vision promise a future filled with impact, creativity, and inspiration—both in music classrooms and beyond. Congratulations, Maya King!