A Native of St. Petersburg, Russia, Ms. Potemkina began her music studies at the age of five as a violinist. She is currently pursing her doctorate degree at The University of Memphis, where she is assistant conductor of the Student Symphony Orchestra. Having obtained her BA in Viola Pedagogy/Choral Conducting from the Herzen State Pedagogical University in Russia (2001) , she also has a Master’s degree in Viola Performance from the University of Northern Iowa (2005), and a Master’s degree in Orchestral conducting from Ball State University (2007) In St. Petersburg, Russia, she was violist in the orchestras of the State Young People’s Theater, the Conservatory Symphony Orchestra, and the State Theater of Opera and Ballet, premiering as viola soloist throughout the city, and performed in many European countries with the Youth Chamber Choir. In the U.S., Ms. Potemkina has performed with numerous orchestras and ensembles as a violist, and has won several student conducting competitions. She currently plays with the symphony orchestras in Jackson, Tennessee, and Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Ms. Potemkina will conduct the Advanced Wind Ensemble.

Dr. Sheryl Lane
Dr. Lane has a wealth of experience in teaching,directing, and conducting, as well as being an accomplished violinist. She has performed with the Central Texas Orchestra, the Monroe Symphony Orchestra and the Corinth Symphony. Dr. Lane conducted the Monroe Youth Symphony in Louisiana and is currently conductor of two orchestras at Kingsbury High School, and serves as Organist and Music Director of Collierville Christian Church, while also teaching privately. Most recently, she served as coordinator of the Tennessee All West Orchestra Clinic and Concert, an event she has chaired for the past four years. Dr. Lane will conduct the  Concert String Orchestra for MYPO.