Anthony Funaro- Choir

funaroa@howellschools.com

 (517) 540-8300  ex. 86133

Anthony Funaro is in his second year as Director of Choir at Howell High School where he directs Highlander Women, Highlander Men, Women’s Chorale, A Cappella, and Highlander Chorale. He also serves as faculty advisor for Classicality and Calamity.  Students under his leadership have earned high ratings at MSVMA District and State Choral Festivals and have excelled at District and State Solo and Ensemble Festivals. In addition to his teaching duties, Anthony is the vocal music director for the Howell High School Spring Musical.  Outside of his teaching job, Anthony is a member of the music staff at First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids and is beyond proud to serve on the MSVMA Board of Directors as the Member-At-Large. A native of Grosse Ile Michigan, Anthony attended Western Michigan University earning a Bachelor of Arts in Music, and later earned his Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification from Eastern Michigan University. Anthony currently resides in Lansing, Michigan where he enjoys traveling during the summer, reading a good historical mystery crime novel, cooking, and spending time with his family and friends. 

Wendy Nieman - Collaborative Pianist

Wendy Nieman is the Collaborative Pianist for Howell High School's choral program, where she provides expert keyboard accompaniment for a wide range of musical activities. Now beginning her fourth year at HHS, Mrs. Nieman supports not only the choral ensembles but also the school’s musicals, Solo and Ensemble performances, and various other exciting events throughout the academic year. A dedicated and versatile musician, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Music from Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California, graduating with a rare triple emphasis in Piano Performance, Theory, and Education. Before relocating to Michigan, Mrs. Nieman served as the Collaborative Accompanist for Butler University's performing arts department, where she worked extensively with the dance program, choirs, and individual solo performers.  Mrs. Nieman is passionate about supporting student musicians and helping bring their performances to life through collaboration and creativity. She is excited to begin another school year, continuing her commitment to excellence in music education and performance at Howell High School.