Music

As a multifaceted performer and storyteller, Blake’s musical career encompasses both his love for classical music and his passion for musical theatre. His work analyzes and diversifies the classical and contemporary musical canons through critical discussions and performances of works by composers from historically marginalized and underrepresented communities. Blake is lauded for his innate ability to combine vocal technique and theatrical storytelling elements, providing his audiences with an immersive and captivating musical experience.

 

Blake has performed as a choral, chamber, and solo musician, most recently with Magnum Chorum, St. Olaf Chamber Singers, and the St. Olaf Choir, where he also served as a featured soloist. He was the Music Director for RSVP Youth Theatre (Yankton, SD), where he worked with young vocalists to maintain vocal health, develop technically, and explore characterization and storytelling. He’s also been an instructor for the City of Yankton Parks and Recreation Department’s “Special Person and Me” music class focused on teaching toddlers the foundations of rhythmic and melodic integrity through games and musical exploration. 

 

Blake performs professionally as a Tenor with Border CrosSing (St. Paul, MN) and works as a Musical Director with Project Success (Minneapolis, MN). He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from St. Olaf College and has previously studied with Jerry Elsbernd, Wilfred (Luke) Williams, and Tammy Hensrud. He teaches the 6-8 Choir at Sanford Middle School (Minneapolis, MN).