Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance will welcome mezzo-soprano Gillian Riesen and tenor John Riesen for a Sims Guest Artist recital on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in Gorell Recital Hall, located on the second floor of Sutton Hall. This event is free and open to the public.
The vocal power couple will present an engaging program of operatic and musical theater favorites, bringing together two accomplished performers whose work spans the concert stage, recording studio, and creative arts industry.
Award-winning tenor John Riesen has built a multifaceted career in opera, musical theater, symphonic performance, commercial recording, and television. He has appeared at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center and with organizations including the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Pacific Symphony, Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, Detroit Opera, Nashville Opera, and Chautauqua Opera. He also reached a national television audience as a featured vocalist with the finalist act “Metaphysic” on NBC’s America’s Got Talent. His more than 130 commercial recordings have received over 10 million streams on Spotify and Apple Music.
Gillian Riesen is a mezzo-soprano known for her warm vocal presence and work in operatic and musical theater repertoire. In addition to performing, she is committed to helping artists build sustainable careers through high-quality digital media and creative professional services.
“Gillian and John are compelling artists whose versatility allows them to move naturally between opera and musical theater,” said Joseph Baunoch, professor of music and coordinator of IUP’s Voice Area. “Their recital will give audiences the opportunity to experience two exceptional voices while also showing our students how today’s professional singers can combine artistry, collaboration, and innovation. We are delighted to welcome them to IUP as Sims Guest Artists.”
The Riesens’ visit is supported by the Dr. Edward R. Sims ’53 Distinguished Visiting Artist/Scholar for Music program. Established through a gift from IUP alumnus Edward Sims, the program brings nationally and internationally recognized musicians and scholars to campus to perform, teach, and engage with IUP students.