Performing Arts Biography:
Michael Bagby earned his doctorate in vocal coaching and accompanying from the University of Illinois under the direction of Julie Gunn. He completed his masters at the University of Michigan where he studied with Martin Katz. He also holds bachelor degrees in piano performance and K-12 vocal education from Iowa State University, instructed by William David. Bagby has been afforded opportunities as a pianist, coach, singer, and conductor. Most recently he was selected for the Glimmerglass Music Festival as well as the National Association of Teaching Singing (NATS) Program. Additional recent credits include music director and pianist in the world premiere of Nathan Gunn: Flying Solo directed by Hershey Felder, music director for Coastal Carolina’s production of The Color Purple, both assistant music director and co-arranger for Musicals Tonight’s production of The Boys from Syracuse, and assistant director for Opera North for several productions including their Singers and Swingers performances featuring opera artists and circus aerialists. Among his various awards and achievements, Bagby premiered his composition for solo piano, “Bells,” in the Isaac Stern Auditorium at Carnegie Hall. He is honored to be a two-time recipient of the Nancy Wustman Memorial Award in Vocal Accompanying, established by John Wustman. Dr. Bagby previously was on faculty at Loras College and maintained a private piano studio as a member of the Iowa Music Teacher’s Association. He is thrilled to join Saint Mary’s University in Winona, Minnesota as the Director of Music Programming. Find more at www.MichaelBagby.com
Items of interest he would like to share:
- Most excited about working with the students because music education is his passion
- Comes from Dubuque, Iowa
- Adopted as a baby by his loving, hard-working parents, Don and Diana
- Completed his doctoral dissertation on piano reductions of orchestral scores from the 18th and 19th-Century Italian operatic traditions
- Enjoys working with singers and instrumentalists, having performed and conducted in theatres and opera houses around the world
- Thrilled to be working with Lynette Johnson, Senior Director of Arts & Event Services, because of the enthusiasm and kindness she brings to the Saint Mary’s campus
- Grateful for the warm welcome in his first days on campus
- Asks everyone to help in building upon our musical traditions and experiences, recognizing that prayer and encouragement can be just as impactful as participation
Dr. Michael Bagby’s office is located at Page 123 and is looking forward to creating new connections so please reach out and welcome him to Saint Mary’s in this pivotal role as part of the Arts Co-Curricular.
Recent Media Highlight:
Come to the Throne: Mini-Documentary & Original Composition (YouTube)
