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The American soprano and music director, Stephanie A. Mekonen, obtained her Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota; and her Master of Music degree in Opera Performance from the University of Texas at Austin.
Stephanie Mekonen serves as Music Director (Kantor) at Immanuel Lutheran Church and School in Alexandria, Virginia since July 2018. She leads a dynamic music ministry that blends artistry, education, and community engagement. She direct the Immanuel Music Adult Choir, Immanuel Music Bach Collegium, and Sunday School choir, nurturing musical growth across generations. She founded the Immanuel Music Bach Collegium, a premiere chamber group which performs selections from J.S. Bach's cantata of the day each week. She also launched their ongoing concert series, providing a platform for world-class sacred and classical music in the community. Each spring, she programs and conducts a major sacred work, bringing together choirs and professional musicians in collaboration. Highlights of her work include: Leading and inspiring adult and youth choirs; Founding and directing the Immanuel Music Bach Collegium; Establishing a concert series that brings professional-level music to the community; Producing and conducting large-scale sacred works with hired professional musicians. This role allows her to combine sacred music, performance, leadership, and education - helping both musicians and audiences experience the power of great sacred music.
In the D.C. area, Stephanie Mekonen performs regularly as a hired soloist, is a member of the Washington Master Chorale, and maintains a private voice studio. She previously served as cantor at The Church of the Little Flower in Bethesda. She and her husband Yonas live in Alexandria along with their five beautiful children. |
