Ms. Young works in Grand Rapids as the 6-8 grade choir teacher at Robert J Ellington Middle School. In her free time, she likes to be outside with her dog, Finley. Music is one of her passions because it allows people to connect in a way we don't normally get to. Ms. Young's favorite artist is most definitely Taylor Swift. She is excited to step in as the Cantemus director this year and can't wait for the season! 

Ms. Downing teaches K-5 Elementary Music at Minnehaha Elementary in Two Harbors. Music is one of her passions because it makes her feel alive. She loves the opportunity for expression, and that you can either feel so deeply or get lost in a song. Taylor Swift is her all-time fave, but she also loves The Chicks, Lizzy McAlpine, Billy Joel, ABBA, and Fleetwood Mac! Ms. Downing is most excited to try something new as both an accompanist and director, accompanying both Cantala and Cantemus and directing Prelude. It will stretch her as a musician and allow her to grow relationships with a new group of singers! 

Ms. Altonen is currently finishing her degree in Vocal Music Education at the College of Saint Scholastica with student teaching at Denfeld High School. In her free time, she likes to hike, bake, and binge-watch TV shows. Music is one of her passions because it shaped her into who she is today. Music has taught her persistence, diligence, and compassion. Ms. Altonen's favorite artist (at least currently) is Gregory Alan Isakov but she also loves Sabrina Carpenter, Hollow Coves, and Laufey.  She is most excited for Holiday Reflections this season, which is her favorite concert of the season! 

Ms. Mitchell is currently studying vocal music education at UMD and also working at a daycare facility in Duluth. Music is one of her passions because of how many different things it can mean to different people. It's so versatile, and that is beautiful. She also loves the community and connection that music brings. Her favorite genre of music is singer-songwriter/indie pop music. She loves the raw emotion some of the songs convey (Also, she is a HUGE Lizzy McAlpine fan!).  Ms. Mitchell is looking forward to meeting all of the singers and getting to know everyone. She is extremely excited for her first year as an intern.