Mrs. Denise Perry is a native of Madison, South Dakota. Denise earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education at South Dakota State University, and a Master’s Degree in Music Education from the University of South Dakota.

Denise began her teaching career with 13 years as an elementary music specialist in the Brookings School District, completing Level I Orff certification at Drake University.  She is currently in her 15th year at Brookings High School where she teachers 280 students in 5 daily choirs, oversees 46 students in 3 vocal jazz groups, and directs the BHS spring talent show.

Mrs. Perry has served in the capacity of church music coordinator and worship leader, festival adjudicator, guest conductor, and private voice and piano instructor. She has also served on the faculty of the SDSU All-State Music Camp as well as the Sioux Falls JazzFest Jazz Camp. She is an active member of ACDA, and currently serves as the President for the South Dakota chapter.

A native of Milbank, South Dakota, and recent graduate of South Dakota State University, Shawn Stemsrud has earned regional and national recognition for his refined conducting gesture, musical direction, and rehearsal techniques. Recent recognitions include the National American Choral Director’s Association’s 2021 Conducting Masterclass winner, and the Kennedy Center American Theatre Festival’s outstanding achievement in musical theatre direction. Ensembles under his leadership have consistently enjoyed successful and acclaimed performances. He now serves as a Musical Director and Vocal Coach for the Prairie Repertory Theatre, Choir Director & Organist at First United Methodist Church, and Assistant Vocal Music Director at Brookings High School in Brookings, South Dakota. Stemsrud’s young students have been active in world-premiere choral commissions and guest appearances with the South Dakota State University Concert Choir.   

Vocal Coach