JOSEPH CIESLAK 2020-21 ($1,000) & 2021-22 ($1,000)
Joseph "Calloway" Cieslak, a conductor/composer from Boise, Idaho, is known for his passion for community-centered music-making. Cieslak's conducting journey began in 2012 with the founding of the New Orleans Volunteer Orchestra, where he co-directed for six years. In 2015, he established the Voices of New Orleans Choir and served as choirmaster for three years. Under his leadership, both ensembles flourished, becoming prominent community fixtures known for their engaging concerts and collaborations with professional soloists. Holding a bachelor's degree in music education from the University of Loyola New Orleans and a master's in composition from the University of Denver, Cieslak brings a diverse musical background to his work.
He recently graduated from UNT with a master's degree in orchestral conducting under Maestro David Itkin. He returned to New Orleans in fall 2022 to work with the New Orleans Volunteer Orchestra (now Symphony of New Orleans) as its music and artistic director, and he is looking forward to revitalizing the organization post-pandemic.
JACOB AUGSTEN 2022-23 ($500) & 2023-24 ($1,000)
A native of Griffin, Georgia, Jacob Augsten is a conductor, teacher and singer committed to fostering community through collaborative choral artistry. Currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in choral conducting at UNT, Augsten serves as the assistant conductor of the Dallas Symphony Chorus, director of music at First Presbyterian Church of Denton and conducts various ensembles at UNT. With extensive experience in public school teaching and conducting choirs at all levels, Augsten's passion for choral music extends to his active participation as a singer with renowned ensembles in Dallas and Atlanta. Holding a Master of Music degree from Georgia State University and a Bachelor of Music degree from Clayton State University,
Augsten's dedication to musical excellence is underscored by numerous accolades and performances in prestigious productions and concerts.
Peggy, we are deeply grateful for your generosity and philanthropic spirit. Your gifts to the Henry Gibbons Choral Conducting Scholarship Fund at the UNT College of Music have truly made a difference in the academic journeys of these deserving scholarship recipients. Thank you for being a champion of UNT! Ana Lemons Director of Development 940-565-3683 ana.lemons@unt.edu
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