musicians of tomorrow senior salute

Musicians of Tomorrow

It is a privilege for MBU faculty and staff to witness the completion of the hard work of their students. At Commencement, we celebrate their launch into the world to be leaders and witnesses for Christ. We salute all of our graduating musicians, and feature a few below, who are going to be leaders in a variety of music fields. 

Melissa Rhine

Melissa Rhine, a violin performance and piano pedagogy major from the suburbs of Chicago, served as orchestra librarian, a Music Prep School teacher, and a missionary prayer group leader during her time at MBU. She was also involved in the choir and Sunday school at her extension church. She advises younger music students to form supportive friendships to help face the rigors of the music program. Her future plans include getting married next summer and furthering her career as a musician. 

Averi Zakes

Averi Zakes, a general music and piano pedagogy major from Hudson, Wisconsin, sang in Chorale and taught  music at Kiddie Kampus and the Music Prep school to build both her teaching and leadership skills. Through her experiences in the music program, Zakes learned that it’s okay to make mistakes and to never give up on working to get better. She is excited to apply the concepts she learned in school and begin teaching. One day, she hopes to open her own studios.  

Peter Holloway

Peter Holloway, a violin performance and church music major from Birmingham, Michigan, participated in orchestra, band, Chamber Singers, Percussion Ensemble, Low Key Men’s Ensemble, Heritage Singers, dramatic productions, and the Student Body Council. He also served as a resident assistant, wrote for the music blog, and taught in the Music Prep school. He encourages younger students to prioritize their time and glorify God by doing their very best in every pursuit. Next fall he will begin his Master’s degree in Biblical Studies at Maranatha Baptist Seminary, while serving in the Graduate Assistant position in the Office of Student Activities. 

Katherine Braswell

Katherine Braswell, a Music education major from South Bend, Indiana, was heavily involved in her extension church at MBU, serving alongside other church musicians and in children’s ministry. During her time at Maranatha, she learned to maintain an attitude of learning and growth, especially through the challenges of performing a recital. She advises young musicians to be proactive and start using their time to practice now. In the future, she plans to teach elementary music, help with church music, and start a family with her new husband Zachary.