Meet the Orchestra

Dawn Matthews

Bass

Ian is a student at Viewmont High School with plans to graduate in 2025, and has been playing the bass for 5 years. As a student he has qualified for and participated in All State Orchestra and has attended the State Solo & Ensemble Festival each year. He has studied under several wonderful bassists, participated in state college bass festivals and plans to continue his music education in university. Ian plays the electric bass in high school jazz band and also enjoys playing the piano. In addition to his music experience in school he is an enthusiastic member of the wrestling and esports teams.

Scott McCauley

Bass

Spencer has played bass for nearly 20 years. He's played in other countries, a variety of musical groups and productions, and in concerts with over 10,000 people in attendance. He is a graduate from Weber State University, a former president of the Weber State Symphony Orchestra, and one of the founding members of the Skyward Symphony. Now Spencer is a senior construction estimator who finds joy bringing music and song to his community and any opportunity to maintain music as a big part of his life.

Tim has been playing the string bass since 6th grade. Now, at over 60+ years old, he has been lugging (and playing) the bass for over 50 years. Tim graduated from Utah State University with a B.S. in Engineering but is grateful for the USU Music department for help funding his engineering degree! Tim met his wife Nada in the Orchestra at USU and has continued the music tradition in their family of five girls. Tim and Nada (who also plays in Skyward) are the proud parents of the Concertmaster of the Skyward Symphony, Sarah Pehrson.

Heather is a third generation bassoonist. She is the mother of two and a national board certified science teacher for the junior high level. She's been playing bassoon for over 25 years in both band and orchestra settings.

Katie Mae Simmons graduated from Weber State University with bachelor's degrees in Bassoon Performance and Geographic Information Systems. When not playing bassoon, she enjoys reading and spending time outdoors hiking, camping, and sailing.

Brooklyn plays cello in Skyward Symphony and has been a part of the group for a couple years. She is a part-time Padawon and full-time book nerd. Go Skyward!

Carolyn has enjoyed playing the cello since she was in junior high. She played with Weber State College Orchestra (where she earned a degree in nursing) and in Mormon Youth Symphony and a few other community groups. Family and care giving resulted in putting her cello away for a while, so she is excited to have a chance to dust off her cello and enjoy playing once more. Carolyn enjoys teaching nursing and informatics at the University of Utah, but her greatest joy comes from spending time with her husband, their 3 sons and their spouses, and their 5 grandchildren.

Evelyn is a budding pastry chef with a passion for music. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from DaVinci Academy of Science and Arts in June 2023. She also graduated from Ogden-Weber Technical College in December 2022 after completing the Culinary Arts program. Evelyn also completed the Business program at OTECH in April of 2023. She is currently an author, majoring in Creative Writing at Weber State University. Evelyn fell in love with the cello in 5th grade and quickly fell in love with music and performing arts from there. She also sings low alto, was cast as Adelaide in a production of Guys and Dolls, and choreographed part of the show! Throughout high school she played in Ogden Youth Symphony, Northern Utah Youth Symphony, and joined Skyward Symphony in January 2020 (her freshman year of high school). Evelyn aspires to continue to learn and grow as a musician and as part of the community while she continues to work towards her bakery, books, and other passions for many years to come. Check out @holy.cannoli.jordan.ayers on Instagram to keep up with her latest baked goods!

Katrina has always had a love for making and listening to music. Music has always played a role in her family. Many of her family members have played in various symphonies across Utah. She began playing piano at the age of 5 and started her stringed instrument journey on the violin at age 9. Katrina discovered her love for the cello at age 11 and quickly made the permanent change from violin to cello soon after. Katrina has played with the Northern Utah Youth Symphony (formerly the Lincoln Youth Symphony), the Cache Symphony Orchestra, and now Skyward. Katrina studied at Utah State University and Brigham Young University and graduated with her Bachelors in American History. Katrina currently works as a store manager for Mulberry Paper and More, a unique decorative paper store in North Salt Lake. Katrina enjoys spending time with her husband, family, and friends. She also enjoys camping, reading, traveling, and art journaling. She is grateful for the chance to keep playing the cello with Skyward!

Kenzie loves her cats and her fish. She has been playing the cello for four years and joined Skyward in the spring of 2021 and is very dedicated to her instrument.

Loren Atwater

Cello

Oscar has grown up in Utah since he was 3 years old and currently resides in Woods Cross He is a 4th-year student at Weber State University getting his Bachelor's Degree in Music Education. He has been playing music for 10 years and playing cello for over 4 years. He studies under Dr. Viktor Uzur and is a cellist for the Weber State Symphony Orchestra. He joined Skyward in April 2023.

Rachel Berghout started playing cello with the Weber State Strings Project when she was in fourth grade and she continued her musical education throughout junior high and high school. In her last year as an undergrad, she had the opportunity to become part of a production of Lamb of God (the birthplace of the Skyward Symphony) and has enjoyed being a part ever since. For her career, she decided to pursue Computer Science at Weber State University after enjoying a couple of classes in high school. After receiving a job from HAFB, she continued her Computer Science education and received a Master's Degree at the University of Utah where she emphasized in Graphics and Visualization. Rachel enjoys a variety of hobbies. Her most recent additions are digital drawing, creating pop-up cards for friends and family, pot gardening, and exploring new instruments like the octave mandolin and the concertina.

Alexis has played the clarinet since junior high school. Performing music for others has been a lifelong passion of hers. She is currently attending Weber State University. Symphony members may contact Alexis at alexis@skywardsymphony.org with any questions regarding our scores and sheet music.

Angela is a mother and wife to 6 beautiful children. She is a recent graduate of Weber State Universty in Music Education and has played the clarinet since she was in 5th grade. While not thinking about music, she loves to read, paint, cross stitch and be outside in her garden.

Brenna is the fifth of 11 children, all of whom play an instrument! Brenna has played the clarinet for 14 years, playing in school bands, state competitions, and in the Davis High School marching band for four years. Brenna was a drum major in 2014-2015, taking second in the State of Utah. She has played in the Skyward Symphony since the fall of 2022. Brenna obtained her Master’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies, specializing in Family Relations. Brenna developed the Divorce Education for Children curriculum for the State of Utah’s Judiciary Courts system. She has experience working with families in hospital settings, hospice care, impoverished circumstances, and divorce cases. Brenna was the Graduate Director for 2021-2022 academic year at Utah State University. As a graduate student, Brenna assisted in multiple research projects, including the Utah Women & Leadership Project . Currently, Brenna works on global humanitarian efforts for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Beyond playing the clarinet, Brenna enjoys playing spikeball, running, going on hikes, and watching basketball.

Bryon Dalrymple

Clarinet

MaryAnn has been involved with music since the ripe old age of 10! She chose the clarinet in 5th grade, and was inspired by her band teacher to push herself to play the best she could. Ever since, she has diligently worked to be first chair in every band and orchestra she has performed with. In the Weber State Marching Band, MaryAnn was Drum Major for 3 years. She has been the clarinet section leader for many ensembles, including the Weber State Band and several All State groups. She serves as both the clarinet section leader and Associate Director of the Skyward Symphony. Music is a huge part of MaryAnn's life, and one of her many passions. It led her to the love of her life, whom is also a member of the Skyward Symphony! They love spending time together playing music. MaryAnn also loves to hike, read, raise her two children, and walk her dogs. MaryAnn has a Bachelor of Integrated Studies in Music, Mathematics, and Psychology from Weber State. She taught Mathematics at Sunset Junior High, but is now their Canvas specialist. She dreams of becoming a Veterinarian and is working on getting into school for that.

Michael Johnson

Clarinet

Nina Hoyle

Clarinet

Sarah's passion for music began as a toddler. Her grandpa played the trumpet and was a band leader in his own jazz dance band. He was the epitome of cool by playing his trumpet, and Sarah loved the music his band made and how much fun they all had. In middle school, Sarah joined band class. She wanted to play trumpet (to be just like her grandpa) but they already had enough players. Her director suggested she try the clarinet. She fell in love! Despite that, her director taught her trumpet when she came in early for lessons. She learned it was really hard, so decided to stick with the clarinet! Sarah joined marching band in high school and loved having an instant set of friends and working hard for a common goal. A few years in, the band needed tenor saxophones for their half-time show. She got pulled in along with another clarinet player and a flute player to form a section they called "the three tenors". After high school, Sarah stopped playing in groups as life got busy with other responsibilities. But music stayed a part of her life through singing in choirs and performing with her husband. She joined Skyward after attending one of our concerts. She considers it one of the best decisions she's made for herself. She loves this symphony and the friends she has made. Most of all, she loves getting to share her passion with her friends, family and the community. When not playing her instruments, you can find her spending time with my two kids and husband. She enjoys traveling, reading, camping, swimming, laughing, cooking, and all things purple. She's a proud South Carolina native and misses the beach terribly. Utah is home now, but don't ask her to be happy when it snows! Sarah also works as a licensed clinical social worker in private practice and is passionate about mental health awareness and fighting stigmas related to mental health.

Abbey is one of our floutists and a founding member of the Symphony. Her first introduction into music performance started with piano lessons at age 4. She has been playing flute for 14 years and enjoys the opportunity to share her talents with the group and the audience. Abbey is also an avid singer having participated in choirs since age 7. Outside of the Symphony she has graduated from Webe State University with bachelors degrees in Political Science and History. She now works in International Geneaolical Records Acquisition and spends much of her free time watching tennis, golf, Formula 1, and other motorsports. She also has many other hobbies inlucing but not limited to painting, video games, reading, cooking, and building LEGO.

Krystle is a local professional flutist who maintains a teaching studio in Layton. She earned her BA in Music Performance from SUNY Geneseo and her MM in Flute Performance from West Virginia University. She has taught in many of the local schools, judged local solo competitions, and filled in for many local music teachers. Her students have earned top scores in competitions and have participated in honor bands, All State, and district solo concerts. Besides flute, she is also a teacher of ukulele, guitar, voice, and piano. She has been an avid musician since she was a child and has always gotten great joy from music performance and teaching.

Roley Johnson is a senior in high school at Nuames and is planning to go to college at Weber. He enjoys playing the flute and programming. He also enjoys playing games such as Super Smash Bros. and Minecraft.

Annie Purser is a lover of all things creative. Music, art, crafts, graphic design, web design, you name it. Annie played the French Horn in the Davis High Band, Snow College Wind Ensemble, and is currently a member of the Skyward Symphony. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Harmonic Winds of Utah. After hearing Skyward Symphony at a Disney concert, she knew she had to find a way to play her French Horn again and join the group. More than anything, she wants to help others like her realize that graduating high school or college doesn’t have to be the last opportunity to make music and perform with other talented musicians. When she’s not in her creative zone, Annie uses her Bachelor’s in Global Communication (not Art or Web Design!) to manage a team of telephone operators that answer all calls for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She enjoys pickleball, travel, paddleboarding, running an Etsy business, Disney, and (most of all) spoiling her sweet puppy Shadow.

Bond Denhalter

French Horn

Cole is one of our horn players and a founding member of the Skyward Symphony. He has been playing the French Horn for 11 years now, and was the first Skyward Symphony horn Section Leader. Once dreaming of being a professional musician, Cole is now on track to be a Data Scientist and is enrolled in a Data Management/Data Analytic degree. Cole is newly married to Tayler Pomeroy Sorensen (as of September 2022) and has a golden retriever named Remi. Cole currently works as an administrative supervisor at the airport and loves what he does. He has a passion for traveling and aspires to live in different parts of the world while exploring new places.

Emily Denhalter started playing french horn in junior high. She played throughout high school and some in college at Weber State University. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies and is now pursuing a degree in Special Education from Western Governors University. She met her husband (Jesse) in high school band, who sat right next to her as another french horn player! They were high school sweethearts and got married in October 2020. He is also in the symphony.

Jonathan Chantry

French Horn

Josh Williams has played brass instruments since age 12. French horn is the instrument he likes the most, but can also play flugelhorn, tuba, sousaphone, baritone horn, and mellophone. He dabbles in the didgeridoo on a less serious basis. He has played in numerous groups over the last 25 years. He was awarded music scolarships at Utah Valley University in Orem, UT and Snow College in Ephraim, UT. In high school he played with the highly-awarded American Fork High School Marching Band and performed with them all across the Western US, garnering numerous awards. He has also performed with the Utah Valley Youth Symphony, Riverton Symphony, and numerous groups Josh has a degree in Manufacturing Engineering from Weber State University and works as a Design Engineer on weekdays. His hobbies include writing, cooking, welding, and road bicycling. His future ambitions include taking professional courses on brass instrument repair and construction. He has been a member of Skyward Symphony for longer than he can remember, aslong with his wife. He enjoys the relaxed atmosphere, high energy, the diverse talent levels and the unconventional, audience-oriented repertoire that Skyward provides to the community. He is known to favor round objects of not only the musical kind, but also of the fried dough kind and pedal powered kind. He currently lives in Centerville, UT with his wife and children.

Merinda began playing the harp at the age of 6. She has had the opportunity to perform locally and nationally as a soloist, ensemble and orchestral musician with The University of Utah, The University of Arizona, Crimson Harps, HarpFusion, YouTuber Alex Boye, National Flute Association, Salt Lake City Sterling Singers and the Wasatch Chorale. Merinda attended the University of Utah and graduated with her Bachelor of Music in Harp Performance. While at the University of Utah she was the president of the Crimson Harp Ensemble and graduated as the Outstanding Senior for the School of Music in 2022. She is currently attending Southern Utah University to receive her Master of Business Administration in Arts Administration. Merinda has competed in various local and national harp festivals and competitions including the Young Artists Competition, American Harp Society National Competition and the American Harp Society Utah Chapter Harp Festival where she has received both Excellent and Superior recognitions. Currently, she performs as a wedding and event harpist all over Utah and the surrounding states. Merinda created her own harp studio in 2016 and currently teaches the harp to her 15 students of all ages and skill levels. While she loves playing and performing whenever she has the opportunity, she is also the Program Manager for The Blocks Arts District in downtown Salt Lake City where she works to advocate and support artists and arts organizations in the Salt Lake area to create a vibrant and creative community. In her free time, Merinda loves to be outside camping, hiking, skiing, fishing and trail riding with her horses. You can learn more about her and her work at www.merindautahharpist.com .

Jennifer has been playing keyboards since the age of 5. Although she initially hated piano (often not going home after school on days of lessons), something finally clicked when she began tutelage under concert pianist and long-time Ogden resident, Marjorie Greenwell. The 70-years of age difference didn't matter—they had an instant connection. Marjorie instilled a love of the piano in Jen as a teenager and made playing effortless and fun. Jennifer's mother would often have to kick her off the piano on Saturdays after hours of playing. A highlight was learning Edvard Grieg's Piano Concerto in A Minor from an original manuscript dating to 1869. Jennifer still has the manuscript (over 150 yrs old), a real treasure from and memory of Mrs. Greenwell. Jennifer attended college on a vocal music scholarship, singing with the Chamber Choir at Weber State University and touring in Czechoslovakia, Germany and Austria. During graduate studies for her M.B.A., Jennifer sang with the Mormon Youth Symphony and Chorus on Temple Square until the group was disbanned and combined with the Tabernacle Choir. Jennifer began accompanying singers and musicians as an early teen and has continued providing accompaniment and piano solos for more than 40 years. She loves to play music at awards ceremonies, luncheons, and special events, often commenting that if she could have a full-time job just playing piano for others she's take it! She currently serves as the Organist for her LDS ward each Sunday and has a full-size organ (inherited from her mother-in-law) in her home music room, along with two pianos and dozens of other instruments. In addition to playing for Skyward Symphony, Jennifer currently sings with the Bel Canto Chamber Choir, a 20 member vocal group in Weber County, along with her oldest daughter. One of her favorite hobbies is accompanying her children on their many instruments, including: flute, piccolo, tuba, trombone, trumpet, french horn, saxophone, violin, guitar, ukelele, drums, bagpipes, and other small and fun instruments. She also enjoys cycling, reading, photography, the outdoors, geneology, sleep and spending any and all free time with her husband and children when not working.

Allison Diaz

Oboe

Shelby Moyes Batis is the Oboe and English Horn section leader for Skyward Symphony. She graduated with her Oboe/English Horn Performance Minor from Weber State University.

Steve is a native of Salt Lake City. He attended West high school and began playing the clarinet at the age of 14. He attended both Weber State University and the University of Utah. He participated in the marching bands at both institutions. While at the University of Utah he began studying the oboe. Over the years work took him away from music. However, after retiring for health reasons in 2010, he took up music again, focusing full time on the oboe and the English horn. For 20 years Steve lived in Stuart, Florida, where he played with the Stuart Fl. Community Concert Band, and the Treasure Coast Symphony Orchestra. In 2023 Steve relocated back home to Utah. He currently performs with the Murray Symphony Orchestra, the Salt Lake Men’s Choir, and now, with the Skyward Symphony.

Amber graduated with a BA in Music in 2012 with an emphasis in percussion. She joined Skyward Symphony in 2019, as "playing in a community orchestra" was on her bucket list. At night she works as an RN on a Pediatrics floor. She and her husband have a son, a daughter, and 2 cats. Her hobbies include overbooking herself, binging true crime, and enjoying her kids.

Angela Romero

Percussion

Briele is a 5'6" cellist gone rogue. In Skyward, you'll see her whacking things tactfully as a percussionist. They may make occasional electric bass appearances too. If you catch them in the wild, she'll probably have a camera strapped and ready to go!

Jefferson Muhn

Percussion

Levi has played the drums for 20 years, and still loves to play everyday.

Nathanael B. Quimby

Percussion

Samuel Silva is an aspiring musician and actively working his way towards becoming a virtuoso pianist and percussionist. He is a very avid musician by nature and practices forty hours daily, eight days a week! Currently he studies percussion at Farmington High School under the direction of Brek Mangleson. He is a senior as of the 2023-2024 school year. In addition, he studies privately with Michael Pape who is a well-known performer in the Salt Lake area and has performed with the Utah Symphony. Samuel's life goal is to be a well-known performer in the Salt Lake area and be a part of top groups like the Utah Symphony, Eccles Theatre, Ballet Weat, etc. His plans as of right now are to graduate high school, then serve a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After that, go to college (preferably the U) and study Music and other things.

Tamara is grateful for the opportunity to play in Skyward Symphony. She's had many wonderful experiences with music her entire life. She participated in choir from 4th grade on, performing in the White House, Great America, and all the way over in the Vatican. She started accompanying choirs in junior high and continues to accompany for her flute-playing children. Marching band, Broadway belt-voice lessons, and choirs all led to a Music Minor from BYU alongside her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. Music and family are her happy places, even as challenging as they can be. Turn the music up and enjoy!

Brian Holt

Saxophone

Cidney started their musical journey playing clarinet in 7th grade band at the age of 12. Nowadays, they'll play any instrument that they can get their hands on! Cidney is currently studying Creative Writing at Weber State University and minoring in Music Performance. Whenever they aren't geeking out over Music or English, Cidney enjoys playing video games, watching anime, reading, writing, and taking long naps with their cats!

Melissa Hansen is Skyward Symphony's saxophone section leader. She was taught piano by her mom at an early age and then learned the clarinet in junior high. She moved to saxophone in 9th grade to be involved with the jazz band. After high school the saxophone was only pulled out on special occasions. In 2016 she joined the Golden Years band and regained her love of playing with a band and performing for the community. She was thrilled to be a founding member of Harmonic Winds of Utah in 2022 and equally excited to discover Skyward Symphony in 2023. Recently, she has enjoyed learning music transposition and harmonization. Music is not just a passion for Melissa; it has led to improved mental health and self-esteem. She plays soprano, alto, and tenor saxophone and clarinet with the different groups she performs with. Melissa has a background in Chemical Engineer and worked as a senior scientist for a nutraceutical company for 15 years before stepping back and taking some time with her family. She enjoyed several years of teaching math and English at her daughter’s elementary school and then in 2014, she co-founded a non-profit organization where she is Executive Director. She loves to read and do all kinds of sewing projects. Melissa married her love, Josh, in 1994 and they have 3 grown kiddos and 3 amazing grandkids.

Ashley has a passion for music and the powerful effect it has on the brain. She has been playing the trombone for over 15 years. She attended WSU where she played in the Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Marching Band, and Pep Band. She loves to travel and was able to go with the WSU Orchestra on two study abroad programs to Spain and Hawaii. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Music with a Minor in Psychology. Ashley first played with Skyward Symphony when it was founded back in 2018. Her other hobbies include hunting, fishing, hiking (basically anything outdoors), and is enthusiastic about environmental stewardship and wildlife conservation.

Brandon decided after 4 years of playing the violin he wanted to try something new, and trombone was it! He has been playing for 5 years and is playing for Skyward for over a year.

Liz learned to play trombone the summer before her freshman year of highschool, after attending a combined orchestra/band concert and falling in love with the sound of the band and combined symphony. She mustered up the courage to ask the high school band teacher (Steve Parks of Ogden High) what instrument the band needed. He set her on the path of learning trombone. It was one of the best decisions she made at that time. It opened the door to a whole world of music yet unexplored, and gave her a chance to make important and lasting friendships that would shape her high school years into happy ones. After high school Liz and her trombone parted ways for some time until her little sister introduced her to Skyward Symphony. Missing the beautiful influence of music in her life, Liz dusted off the old trombone and resparked her love of playing. It has been a happy five years of learning and growing with music once again.

Linda was born and raised in Ogden UT. She currently lives there with her husband (10 years), 2 dogs, and 1 cat. Linda has been playing trombone for roughly 20 years and has been a part of Skyward Symphony for 4 years. See works as an Opthalmic Technician/Surgery Tech. In her free time (besides playing music) she enjoys video games, crafting, fishing, going to Disneyland, and napping.

Zach plays the trombone and teaches English to junior high savages. That is all you need to know about him.

David Lambertson

Trumpet

Derreck Syphus

Trumpet

Jordan joined Skyward Symphony in 2021 and has been enjoying it ever since! He graduated from the University of Utah in Chemistry and now works in a lab. He enjoys making music, making puns, and having a good time!

Kelsey Denhalter

Trumpet

Savannah Tran

Trumpet

Music has always been a huge part of Suzie's life. Starting her musical journey with piano lessons, she kept going and hasn't stopped! She started middle school knowing that she was going to play the trumpet in band, and it has opened up so many opportunities for her. From Idaho to Hawaii, she played and sang in as many performing groups as she could. Suzie graduated with a Bachelors of Music from Brigham Young University-Hawaii, where she added steel drums and ukulele to her list of instruments she can't live without. She currently is a private teacher for piano and ukulele. Suzie believes you can't have too many hobbies, and also enjoys reading, Disney movies, video games, and community theater. She is so grateful to have found Skyward Symphony, where she can play amazing and fun music.

Jocelin Arbon

Tuba

Kash played tuba for ten years through middle school, high school, and University. He marched sousaphone for six of those years, including in the University of Utah Marching Band. After an eight year hiatus, he acquired his current tuba and joined Skyward Symphony in the summer of 2022. He now intends to play year-round!

Becca Rhodes

Viola

As a founding member, Clarissa is proud of everything Skyward Symphony has accomplished. Coming from a musical family, the symphony has become a family affair. Like most volunteer members, she does not make her livelihood in music. Instead, she works full-time as a dog and cat pet stylist and is currently the salon leader of the Riverdale PetSmart. Any spare hours of the day are spent with her aging cattle dog mix, two cats, and a curly-haired tarantula.

Debra Peek

Viola

Emily started playing the viola at the age of 10 and played throughout her school years. After getting married and having 2 children, she didn't play for over 10 years and is so grateful for Skyward for giving her the chance to play again. She is also an event singer and performs in theatre across the wasatch front and has performed in NYC in the Bound for Broadway showcase twice.

Ingrid is a Puerto Rico native who has been playing viola since she was 17. She is looking to grow as a musician as she takes on her biggest challenge: a 5-string viola!

Jessie Winterbottom

Viola

Katherine is the violist gone rogue as the videographer for Skyward Symphony. Her studies at university lead her all the way from Physics to Communication, where she studied Digital Media. She graduated with her Bachelor's Degree in Spring 2023 and now inhabits the media realm as a videographer. She works mainly on commercial and short film sets in Utah with the goal to become a full-time cinematographer and director. Katherine also dabbles in acting and music production and enjoys time spent playing and recording viola and piano.

Kellie is an accomplished musician and teacher with experience ranging from recorder to piano to viola. She has played in multiple symphonies including Utah State Symphony.

Kimberly is a violist, cat mom, runner, and massage therapist.

Leisel Snyder

Viola

Linda has been playing viola since she was in 6th grade. She continued playing into college and studied Music for a year, before switching to Math. Now, Linda is a 10th grade math teacher at Ogden High School, but still remains an avid musician.

Nada has played viola since she was getting ready for 4th grade through high school. She was a member of the Granite Youth Symphony while in high school. She also plays piano and loves to sing. Nada is the proud mother of the Concert Master of Skyward, Sarah Jane Pehrson.

Seth grew up in a musical family, playing violin and piano at an early age. He found his true musical calling when he switched from violin to viola at the age of 12. He played through his youth, was principal violist in the Logan High Symphony Orchestra, in the Utah All State Orchestra, and during his studies with the University State University Symphony (where he met his wife and stand partner).

Allison Sawyer

Violin

Alysha loves music and has played her violin in symphonies, rock bands, and bluegrass bands since she was a youngster. She was trained in the Suzuki method starting at the age of five and studied under Jack Ashton in high school playing in his orchestras and taking private lessons. She went to Ricks College on a music scholarship playing in their symphonies and orchestras. Later she played with the Mormon Youth Symphony and the Utah Valley Symphony. While it has been several years since she has played classical music regularly, she has kept up her passion for playing in different genres for several bands, performing in music festivals, and touring. She is excited to be joining the Skyward Symphony and playing what will be her first official concert in 15 years.

Blanca A. Schmit

Violin

Brittney discovered her love of music in the 3rd grade when an after school music program introduced her to the violin. She's been hooked ever since. Brittney enjoyed teaching violin lessons throughout high school. She helped teach elementary school children in the “Strings For Kids” after school program. Brittney graduated from Utah State University with a Bachelor of Science in Operations Management. She worked in Dallas, Texas for several years and completed her MBA from Texas A&M. She is the Continuous Improvement Manager at JBT in Ogden. She enjoys spending time with her husband and their two dogs.

Caleb Roberts

Violin

Cathy Butler Teichert is an advanced active Suzuki Violin Teacher with Cathy's Violin Studio in Layton, UT (trained to teach all 10 Suzuki Books and beyond). For the last 22+ years she has performed with String of Elegance for 100's of weddings along the Wasatch Front. In addition to an active music career, she also provides life & relationship coaching for singles healing from divorce and re-entering the dating world. She and her husband Jeff have a blended family of 4 handsome sons, 1 lovely daughter in law, and 2 darling granddaughters. Jeff & Cathy are coaching partners who also produce weekly podcasts, videos, and written articles through Love In Later Years (LILY). Jeff is an attorney, formerly with ChrisJen (which is how we met Jonathan Nish). With their insanely busy schedules, Cathy is excited to join Skyward Symphony in 2024 for the John Williams Concert - just for fun!

Cynthia has loved music all her life. She began by playing the piano when she was 6 years old. In 5th grade, she started to play violin as well. In high school, Cynthia was the section chair for the second section of violins. Cynthia enjoys gardening and traveling.

David Cortes

Violin

Destiny Pederson

Violin

Jacqueline is an Executive Corporate Recruiter and voice-over talent for radio & TV commercials and lives in Salt Lake City, Utah. She is a former television anchorwoman and reporter for the CBS affiliate in Phoenix, AZ and the NBC affiliate in Idaho Falls, Idaho. She’s also been a Sports Talk Show Host for KVNU, the Utah State Sports Network where she was the post-game show to the Utah State football and basketball games. She emcees and does public speaking for various events. She attended Utah State University on a basketball scholarship and still holds an athletic record there. She received a BA in Broadcast Journalism. She was Miss Utah State and Homecoming Queen along with Finalist to Miss Utah 1984 who became Miss America 1984. She now judges state beauty/scholarship pageants in Idaho, Utah, Nevada, Texas, and Arizona. Jacqueline did a skit with Bob Hope, called “Homecoming USA.” She also did a skit with Dick Van Dyke, called the “Dick Van Dyke Magic Show.” Both shows aired on NBC. She was nominated for voice-over talent for the Stars Choice Awards. Jacqueline played the violin in the Utah State Symphony Orchestra and teaches private violin lessons. She was an ITMA formal modeling competition 3rd place winner out of 367 girls at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City. While in NY she performed her violin for Star Search judges. She sang alto for a professional singing group in Paradise Valley, AZ. She lived in Italy for 2 years and speaks fluent Italian. She’s the mother of 3 wonderfully talented children who are in college in Provo, Utah.

Jessica Christenot has been playing the violin since she was 10 years old. She is now 32 and loves being a part of the Skyward Symphony as a first violinist. She has played with the symphony for 5 years now. She is currently working as a Medical Assistant at Tanner Clinic and is also pursuing some acting and will be a part of a production. She is grateful to the symphony for helping her to keep up her skill of playing and pushing to be better. She hopes you enjoy this concert and many to come.

Julia Winegar

Violin

Kami started her musical journey at the age of 6 being trained in the violin Suzuki Method. As a youth, she performed with her Jr. High and High School orchestras, Davis Youth Orchestra and Utah Youth Symphony. She attended BYU-Idaho studying music and performed with the orchestra, various chamber groups and their specialty orchestra Sinfonietta. She also had the opportunity to perform her violin all over Scotland and Ireland while serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Kami has been teaching Suzuki violin since 2016. She has a thriving private studio and loves sharing her love of music with her students. She is grateful to be a member of Skyward Symphony as it gives her the chance to play beautiful music with wonderful musicians! Kami is happily married with three beautiful children. Her family enjoys camping, hiking, playing games, cooking fun food and being together!

Kaylee Christensen

Violin

When Leah was four years old, her family was watching a performance of the Utah Symphony on TV. When they zoomed in on the violin section she became entranced! After a year of begging, she finally received her first violin shortly after her fifth birthday. Leah has been teaching private lessons since 2007, and taught/developed all of the music appreciation courses for Ensign Peak Academy for several years. Leah also performed as lead fiddler in her family bluegrass band, The Wildflowers, for most of her child and teen years. Leah Ellis graduated with her BA in violin from Brigham Young University Idaho in 2019, and has dedicated her life to teaching violin and piano, performing with various ensembles, cheering on her husband, and chasing after her young children. Whether it's playing for fun in her living room, fiddling with her family, performing with large symphonies all over the world, or putting together last-minute concerts, Leah just loves creating music. Leah is currently teaching in Kaysville, UT, and enjoys performing with the Davis Interfaith Choir and Symphony, the Davis County Celebration Orchestra, and Skyward Symphony. Besides violin, Leah also enjoys viola, piano, singing, watercolor painting, reading in her Belle-inspired library, and telling the best puns you've ever heard.

Madeline is a classically-trained pianist and violinist. She started piano at age 6 and violin at age 10. She was part of several orchstras growing up, specifically the Woods Cross High School Orchestra and Advanced Chamber Orchestra, and the Davis Youth Symphony. She played at the Manhattan School of Music in New York for a summer. Madeline studied Violin Performance at Snow College and UVU. Madeline took a few years off of playing, however is back at it and has performed with the Davis Interfaith Symphony (2022) and now with the Skyward Symphony. Madeline lives in Centerville with her husband. She works as a mental health therapist. She enjoys skiing, playing pickleball, reading, and traveling with her husband. She is fluent in Spanish and is learning Haitian Creole.

McKenna has been been playing the violin for about 12 years now and has loved every second of it! She's been playing with Skyward for 3 years, and is so grateful to be able to perform with the amazing and talented musicians of the group. When not playing the violin, McKenna can be found playing outdoors. She loves hiking, hunting, swimming, and camping! She grew up playing soccer and basketball, but enjoys playing all sports. She also loves to read books and spend time with her family!

Melanie Holt has been playing the violin since she was little and has always had a passion for music. She played on scholarship with the Utah State University orchestra during her college years. She then went on to become a music festival director for 10 years, overseeing and directing festivals for high school bands, choirs, and orchestras from all over the country. She now currently teaches violin lessons and has been doing so for over 12 years. She loves being a part of Skyward Symphony as it gives her a chance to play music she loves. It is one of her greatest joys!

Michelle Hill

Violin

Morgan is a Freshman at the University of Utah, starting Fall 2023. She is majoring in Health and Kinesiology. She has played the violin for almost 14 years.

Noelle is an accomplished violinist who has found her musical home in the Skyward Symphony. With a violin in her hands since the age of 8, Noelle has cultivated her talent and passion for music. Throughout her high school years, she showcased her skills by playing in her school's symphony, as well as participating in All State and many local and state competitions. Additionally, her musical journey expanded within her own family, as she became an integral part of a cherished quartet. Playing alongside her loved ones, Noelle experiences the unique bond that only a family ensemble can create. Noelle has a strong passion for playing her violin and continues to find fulfillment and joy in sharing the beauty of music with others.

Rachel has been playing violin since she was four years old. She studied under Ramona Stirling and Jack Ashton as a child and discovered she has a great love for orchestral music. She has played in the BYU Philharmonic, Pocatello Civic Symphony, Meridian Symphony Orchestra, Quincy Symphony Orchestra, Idaho Falls Symphony, Bountiful Philharmonia, and has been the concertmaster of the Davis County Celebration Orchestra for the last 5 years. She has had a private teaching studio for 15 years and has taught violin, cello, and viola students. She has five children, four who play string instruments and one who will start when he is old enough. Music is her passion and she loves any opportunity she has to play with a fun group.

Ryan Christensen

Violin

Sarah started playing the violin at the age of 10. She is a graduate of Snow College, holding a Bachelor of Commercial Music with an emphasis on violin performance (part of the second graduating class of a newly-developed program). As a student she soloed with Kansas, Kurt Bestor, Nathan Pacheco, and many others. She is currently working on a Masters of Music Technology from Southern Utah University, expecting to graduate this summer. She has learned a great deal about recording, live sound, and the business of music from both degrees. She currently plays for several groups, including: Skyward Symphony (as founding member, Concertmaster, and board member) New American Philharmonic (with her parents) StringFX (Formerly Salt Lake String Quartet) Black-Tie String Quartet and Booking Agency Sarah is passionate about sharing the beauty of music and teaches private lessons to as many as 34 students every week! She strives to teach her students how music helps us learn about ourselves, and who we can become through hard work and dedication. She challenges each individual student to become the best they can be but also have fun while doing it. Skyward Symphony proudly and frequently features her virtuoso talent!

Sarah has played the violin since she was 11 years old. She was a member of the Mormon Youth Chorus and Symphony from 1997-1999 and participated in the Weber State Symphony from 1999-2007. She attended Weber State University on a full-tuition instrumental scholarship and majored in Instrumental Music Education. She has a Masters Degree in Education, Curriculum and Instruction. She currently teaches orchestra in grades 6-12 in the Davis School District. Her main two schools are Farmington High School and Farmington Junior High. Sarah has been playing with Skyward Symphony since Fall 2019 when one of her former junior high students invited her to come play with the group. Sarah is also a substitute violinist for Chamber Orchestra Ogden. In her spare time (which is rare), Sarah enjoys watching movies, listening to audio books, playing board games with her family, and traveling. Kauai has been her favorite trip so far, but she has also traveled all over Europe, China, Taiwan, and both Bolivia and Peru. She is an avid Disney fan and is frequently seen in the various Disney parks throughout the year. She is married and has three amazing kids.

Sarah has been playing violin for about 10 years, but did not start learning until she was in her 30's. It has been challenging to learn a new instrument as an adult, but also very rewarding. Getting to the level of playing with a symphony has been a major life accomplishment for her. Sarah is also an accomplished singer and pianist, an internationally award-winning photographer and digital artist, and a great lover of all animals. She spends her day as a vet tech, caring for the animals she loves so much.

Shalon Brierley

Violin

Stacey Barrick has been performing with Skyward Symphony since The Lamb of God production in 2019. She began her musical journey at the age of 4 years old learning the Suzuki method from Wendy Flanders. She attributes her love of music to her mother, Victoria Bennion, who has accompanied many of her performances throughout the years. She is grateful to her husband, Adam Barrick, who encouraged her to join Skyward, to share her passions. Stacey carries a career with Smith's Food and Drug as an Assistant Store Leader and enjoys traveling, making new acquaintances, and adventuring in nature with friends and family.

Tara wanted to play the violin when she read her first Sherlock Holmes story as a child, but she didn't get to pick one up until she could sight read and accompany her dad on the piano on any song he could happen to choose. She started playing in 8th grade. While her main instrument is the piano, her real love is the violin. Tara didn't study music in school, so she is so grateful for Skyward for allowing her to play a part and learn and grow musically.

Tracy Larson

Violin