Senior highlights music of the 30s and 40s in capstone recital

KOKOMO, Ind. - Return to the 1930s and 1940s for one evening, as Indiana University Kokomo senior Chloe VanWinkle showcases the music of that era in her senior capstone recital.

Best of the 30s and 40s, set for 7 p.m. Friday, December 6 in Alumni Hall, highlights not only the music, but VanWinkle's growth as a vocalist as she's earned her degree in humanities, with concentrations in music and theater.

"I feel like at IUK I was prioritized," she said. "I've gained confidence and have had the opportunity to perform so many great roles and to sing in the choir and really work on myself. At a lot of colleges, you don't get that one-on-one experience. It's given me confidence."

VanWinkle, a coloratura soprano, studied with Wendy Grice, director of music, and Garry Grice, adjunct faculty member in music, and said both gave her a good foundation classically.

"I've learned a lot of singing styles, which has helped me grow as a singer," she said. "Garry is an opera singer and has been in the business forever. He and Wendy have given me great insight not just into singing, but every aspect of this industry. I've been able to take classes in costuming, and directing too, which has been exponentially helpful in growing my experience."

She's grateful to both for their support as she's completed her degree. She graduates in December.

"Wendy has put belief in me that I really needed," VanWinkle said. "Wendy and Garry have been nothing but supportive of me singing and chasing my dreams. I will always be indebted to them for doing that for me."

Wendy Grice assisted in planning her capstone recital, suggesting songs of the era that fit her voice, and setting the atmosphere, including with costumes.

"Wendy and I share a love of that time period," said Van Winkle, from Swayzee. "These songs don't get played a lot, and I wanted to bring them back to life. The lyrics back then were so deep and profound, and a lot of people took that for granted. I want to bring it back to life and do it in my own way. I love the aesthetic, the style of the dresses, the classiness, and the way everyone used to come together and enjoy that kind of live music."

A few pieces on her set list include "You Go to My Head," "I'll Be Seeing You," and "I'll Be Home for Christmas." She added that there will be room for people to dance during the performance if they choose.

"I'm really excited to set the mood and really welcome people to enjoy themselves," she said. "Ultimately that's what I want, to perform for people and make them happy."

After graduating in December, VanWinkle plans to explore her options in musical theater, or possibly in social media or human resources - all options she's prepared for because of her IU Kokomo experience.

"That's what I like about my degree. I have so many options," she said. "Music and theater give me the best base. It gives you so much experience working with people and being quick on your feet and being detail oriented. All these features people look for when hiring, you can get from theater. I'm lucky to have that experience with my degree."

Education is KEY at Indiana University Kokomo.

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