Learn Why One UD Degree Wasn't Enough for Brett Izsa

“As an undergraduate, I was fortunate to find a great mentor, so the opportunity to sustain that strong relationship was a big reason I stayed for my graduate degree. Professor James Anderson truly took an interest in me as a musician and recognized my potential as a young conductor, giving me opportunities to stand in front of orchestras. I was even able to conduct one of the fall semester operas as a sophomore, an uncommon situation for sure. There have been so many memorable experiences: trips abroad to Israel, Greece, Malta, Germany, France and England, and even an orchestra tour to China and Dr. Anderson’s winter abroad in London.

For people considering a graduate degree at UD, I would say the opportunities here are unmatched. I received fabulous one-on-one attention and grew tremendously in my time as an undergraduate and as a master’s student. In most schools, classes are large and professors don’t get to make strong connections with students. That’s not the case in the UD School of Music. Because the program is smaller, professors such as Dr. Anderson take vested interest in getting to know students, as he did with me. The relationship we fostered made it so natural to return to UD for the master’s program.

Finding your 'voice’ on the podium is a lifelong journey for conductors, and understanding how to give feedback to an ensemble that elicits growth is a tall task. I was able to develop those skills with Dr. Anderson. He and the UD music program enabled my success. Now, I not only work full time as an orchestra director, but I am regularly asked to take on freelance engagements conducting operas and musicals, and even get to play as a collaborative pianist. I now serve as the director of orchestral activities for the Morris Hills Regional School District, the director of music ministries at Denville Community Church and am an active freelance music director and conductor.”

- Brett Izsa