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Kayme Henkel, Accompanist

Education:

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B.M. in Piano Performance and Pedagogy - University of Central Missouri


M.M. in Piano Performance - Kent State University


D.M.A. in Piano Performance and Pedagogy with a minor in opera coaching - University of Wisconsin Madison

 

When did you first become part of Chorale and how did you get into your current role? 

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I first joined Chorale in the Spring of 2020 when Levi had approached me about becoming the rehearsal accompanist when Lynn Koslowski retired. The idea was that I would sing and get comfortable with the group and then slide into the accompanist position. That season abruptly ended with the start of the pandemic. When we were able to return to public performances in the Fall of 2021, I became the accompanist. 

Kayme Henkelheadshot.jpg

What do you love about what you do in Chorale?

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Because I did all my musical training at public universities and my work has been in secular organizations, this is the first time other than the WELS Worship Conferences that I have been able to sing and play with a choir which actually focuses on the texts in the selections of music. I have sung and played lots of sacred repertoire, it has always been meaningful for me to understand the theology of the texts. But, to be confident that my fellow musicians also share that same love for the theology in the texts is a wonderful blessing. 

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What is you favorite Bible verse?

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Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

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What is your life like outside of Chorale? 

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I do my best to balance my work and my family. My piano career currently focuses on teaching because it works better for my family life than performing. I have three children who keep my schedule very full. In our school breaks we like to find remote places to camp and hike. (Hiking across the Arctic Circle was a bucket list item for remote places to hike.)

 

What is your favorite piece of choral music?

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This is tough. Partly because there is so much repertoire and I feel like I have only experienced a very small portion of it. I have been brought to tears many times singing the Morton Lauridson “O Magnum Mysterium." Around Christmas time “The Boar’s Head Carol” tends to run through my head a lot, it’s such a fun ditty. And then, the “Dies Irae” from the Verdi Requiem is absolutely fantastic to hear and be in the middle of the massive wall of sound created. I love anything by Arvo Pärt and James MacMillan.

 

What is a fun fact about you?

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I love water. I am willing to try any activity in the water, on the water or on the pool deck. 

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Other Music Experience:

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  • Toured with Opera for the Young’s production of “Orpheus Returns”

  • Past Assistant Director of Milwaukee Irish Fest Choir

  • Young Artist with Crested Butte Opera

  • Rehearsal pianist with Bel Cantanti Opera in Washington DC

  • Pianist for Washington Opera Theater

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