The College of Performing and Visual Arts (PVA) at the University of Northern Colorado is committed to turning passion and aptitude into professional skills that prepare students for meaningful careers in the arts. As fall semester approaches, Dean Cristina Goletti said the college is poised to embark on a period of growth and artistic achievement. The introduction of new faculty members, the launch of innovative academic programs, and a dynamic schedule of events all contribute to creating an enriching environment for students, faculty, and the community. 

Welcoming New Faculty  

The College of Performing and Visual Arts welcomes new faculty hired based on their excellence in each discipline.  

For Goletti, hiring faculty that not only hold the highest academic credentials, but also have extensive performing careers and teaching experience is a top priority.  

“PVA is committed to continue investing in what makes our academic programs the best possible: our faculty and staff,” said Goletti.  

This fall, after many national searches that produced competitive pools of candidates, the college is excited to welcome 10 new faculty and three new staff members:  

• Fredrick Brown, conductor, visiting associate director of Bands 
• Mandy Spivak, soprano, assistant professor of Voice 
• Daniel Cosio, trombone, assistant professor of Trombone 
• Dayvison Nunes Costa, trumpet, assistant professor of Classical Trumpet 
• Romina Monsanto, cello, assistant professor of Cello 
• Miles Roth, trumpet, assistant professor of Jazz Trumpet 
• Rachel Darden, acting, assistant professor of Acting 
• Charles Moore, tenor, associate professor of Voice 
• Armando Contreras, baritone, visiting assistant professor of Classical Voice 
• Krissie Weimer, assistant professor of Music Education 
• Jolie Gonzalez Masmela, PVA assistant production manager 
• Maz Pipinich, School of Theatre Arts and Dance technical director 
• Alexandra Holzem, School of Theatre Arts and Dance costume shop manager 

 

Goletti expects that the deep expertise and dedication that these new faculty members have in their respective fields will enhance the educational experiences for PVA students and contribute significantly to the college's academic community. She is also excited about the diversity of those new hires, each contributing to upholding one of UNC’s strategic priorities of Empower Inclusivity. 

New Academic Programs 

Fall semester also marks the introduction of five new academic programs, three from the School of Music and two from the School of Arts and Design. These programs are designed to meet the evolving needs of students and professionals in the arts, providing them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their respective fields. 

The Bachelor of Arts in Music Business and Recording Arts, aims to attract a diverse range of students interested in the intersection of music and business. This program, which does not require an audition, is designed to prepare students for careers in music production, management, and entrepreneurship. 

The Recording Arts Certificate is designed for music students who want to pursue a career in the music industry involving music technology, and who want to be able to record, produce, and market their music at a professional level. Through the course of study, which includes six courses, students will develop a solid foundation on contemporary technologies and techniques such as sequencing, recording, mixing, the art of music production and more. 

Altough not new to the college, actually existing since the college was founded, the Bachelor of Music Education degree has been re-imagined for the needs of those wanting a career in teaching at this time in our society. This updated program emphasizes excellence in musicianship, teaching and general studies, with greater focus in culturally sensitive pedagogies. The degree program prepares students to become broadly based, knowledgeable, and skilled music educators with licensure to teach K-12 music. This degree is jointly delivered by PVA and UNC’s School of Teacher Education.   

PVA is also excited to start a new Master of Arts in Art and Design and the Studio Art Graduate Certificate. This program is geared toward current art educators seeking advanced training and professional development to enhance their teaching skills and stay updated with trends in art education. 

Fall 2024 Arts Season 

With more than 50 shows in the lineup, PVA’s 2024-25 arts season promises to be vibrant and engaging. Highlights for the fall semester include: 

September 

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the signature concert "Sabor de Jazz: A Hispanic Music Celebration" will showcase the rich and diverse sounds of Hispanic music. Concurrently, the group art exhibition "Caminos Por Andar: Latinx Futurism & Expanded Realities" will explore contemporary Latinx art and its intersections with technology and futurism. 

October  

The college will present a production of the classic play "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," offering a thrilling experience perfect for the Halloween season. 

November 

"French Fables & Fairy Tales," a series of chamber operas featuring "Cinderella" and "Doctor Miracle," will bring beloved stories to life through music and performance. 

December  

The "Holiday Spectacular" signature concert will provide holiday entertainment and festive cheer, with attendees invited to enjoy hot chocolate in the lobby before the performance. 

In addition to these events, the College of Performing and Visual Arts is honored to host a free concert by "The President’s Own" Marine Band. This prestigious ensemble is renowned for its exceptional musicianship and will undoubtedly be a highlight of the fall season. 

 "This season promises to be an inspiring and memorable time, highlighting the college's dedication to fostering creativity, learning and excellence in the arts," said Goletti. "I invite everyone to join us this year for a lineup of shows that promises to captivate audiences of all ages and celebrate the power of the performing and visual arts."