Suggestions
Amanda Newman
Owner/Executive Director at Varsity Vocals
Professional Background
Amanda Newman is a dedicated leader in the music and performing arts community, recognized for her role as the Executive Director of Varsity Vocals for over a decade. In her capacity, Amanda has put forth remarkable efforts to elevate young musicians through unique performance opportunities, including competitions, festivals, and concerts that showcase their talents. Her commitment to promoting musical education and enhancing performance skills among young artists has made a lasting impact on the community she serves.
In addition to her leadership at Varsity Vocals, Amanda has extensive experience in the production of educational and engaging concerts, highlighting her ability to blend artistry with organizational excellence. Her expert knowledge in handling recorded music distribution and production has also contributed to her success in the industry, allowing her to bring a diverse array of musical experiences to audiences across the country.
Before taking on her role at Varsity Vocals, Amanda honed her skills as the Operations Coordinator at the Steans Institute for Young Artists at the prestigious Ravinia Festival. Here, she was responsible for the operational aspects of the program, which focuses on nurturing young talent in the arts, further cementing her deep-rooted passion for musical education and youth engagement in the arts.
Education and Achievements
Amanda's academic background lays a strong foundation for her successful career in music and arts administration. She earned her Master of Science (MS) degree in Print Journalism from the esteemed University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she developed critical skills in communication and storytelling that have proven beneficial in her professional endeavors. Furthermore, she holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in English Language and Literature, as well as Spanish, from the same institution, reflecting her diverse linguistic and literary expertise.
Through her education and career, Amanda has demonstrated a passion for both the arts and communication, enriching her contributions to the music community. Her ability to articulate the significance of music in education, alongside her leadership during performances, has resonated both with young musicians and their audiences.
Achievements
Amanda Newman has achieved numerous noteworthy milestones throughout her career. Her leadership at Varsity Vocals has seen the organization grow significantly, culminating in the creation of platforms where young singers can showcase their talents, connect with peers, and gain invaluable experience in the world of music.
Under her guidance, Varsity Vocals has produced a variety of successful events which celebrate the art of contemporary a cappella singing. These initiatives not only promote musical excellence but also encourage personal growth among young artists. Amanda's ability to craft memorable experiences for performers and audiences alike has solidified her reputation as a compassionate and effective leader.
In addition to her work with Varsity Vocals, Amanda's experience with the Ravinia Festival exemplifies her long-standing commitment to fostering young talent. Through her role there, she directly contributed to the development of programs that support and inspire the next generation of musicians, fostering a creative environment where artistic expression flourishes.
Ultimately, Amanda Newman stands out as a remarkable figure in the world of arts education and performance. Her unwavering dedication, coupled with her expertise in music production, management, and artist advocacy, continues to shape and enrich the lives of young musicians today.