By ALLISON CENTOFANTI
YSU Associate Director Communications
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – At Youngstown State University, the arts are an integral part of campus life and community. Thriving from a vast array of programs and events that showcase the talent of students and faculty alike, YSU remains dedicated to fostering a vibrant cultural environment.
As a hub of creativity and a vibrant piece of YSU’s cultural tapestry, the Cliffe College of Creative Arts (CCCA) is a dynamic component of campus and is a major regional arts resource. Within CCCA, the Dana School of Music stands out, made up of internationally recognized faculty and offering students unparalleled opportunities for growth. Here, musicians are not just trained, they are transformed into versatile 21st century artists.
Ryan Lamb, a sophomore tuba performance major, is a prime example of excellence within the arts. Lamb serves as vice president of the Dana Tuba-Euphonium Society, principal tubist in the YSU Wind Ensemble, and a key player with Marching Pride.
His recent accolades include a gold medal in the tuba student division at the Leonard Falcone International Euphonium and Tuba Competition and second place finishes in the Young Artist Solo and Mock Orchestral Excerpts Competitions during the Mid-West Regional Tuba and Euphonium Conference.
“I have learned so much from our various, valuable faculty members,” Lamb says. “Dana has not only shaped my skills as a musician, but also as a person. To have the opportunity to meet so many people with an endless amount of stories, it’s so breathtaking.”
The Dana School also hosts the YSU Youth Orchestra, cultivating young talent through the Symphony Orchestra and string-focused Symphonette. Under the leadership of Michael Butler, music director, and Richard Smrek, assistant director, students ages 13-18 present two annual concerts, honing their skills and embracing collaboration.
The creative spirit is not limited to just music at YSU. Murals completed by art students and led by Dragana Crnjak, YSU professor of art, at local businesses Trek Coffee House and Vallourec Star, were recognized during the 17th annual beautification awards ceremony, presented by Youngstown CityScape. This award honors businesses, neighborhood groups and individuals who contribute to the revitalization and care for the urban landscape within the city of Youngstown.
Sharing talent beyond campus, Brooke May, a sophomore musical theater major, took the stage as the lead role of Carole King in the Youngstown Playhouse production of “Beautiful.” A review of the musical stated, “…The Playhouse’s Carole King is a stunner. Brooke May takes on this challenging role and blows the socks off of the most hardened skeptic. May, is small in stature but huge in talent and packs a wallop in this powerful role.”
Her résumé includes parts in “Zombie Prom,” “Benchmarks,” Elle Woods in “Legally Blonde,”Marian Paroo in “The Music Man,” “12 Angry Jurors” and Dotty Otley/Mrs. Clackett in “Noises Off.” These roles showcase her dedication and talent as a performer.
At YSU, the arts run deep within the campus culture. Through remarkable achievements, community engagement and a steadfast commitment to nurturing talent, the creative spirit lives on and continues to define our vibrant cultural landscape.