A Grammy Award-winning baritone and Grammy-nominated pianist return to their alma mater.
Words: Juliana Bacote ’24
Photo: Josh and Alexa Adams
More than 500 attendees packed into the Armerding Concert Hall in February to watch acclaimed baritone Will Liverman ’10 and pianist Jonathan King ’10 perform a program divided into seven thematic sections, including “In Love” and “Loneliness.” During the section “With Friends,” Liverman and King were joined on stage by their friends violinist Michelle Skinner ’10 and pianist and Wheaton professor Dr. Daniel Paul Horn.
King studied piano with Horn throughout his time as a student. “When I think back on Jon’s Wheaton days, I think of the unusual degree of passion he brought to his music-making,” Horn said. “I recall accompanying him in our keyboard concerto competition and becoming aware that there was something special about what he was communicating to his listeners.”
Dr. Sarah Holman, who served as Liverman’s Opera Director at Wheaton, also recalls noticing Liverman’s “extraordinary talent.” “It is rare that we cast a first-year student in a major role, but we were able to do so immediately in his freshman year,” said Holman.
Both men’s artistry captured the attention of the audience members as they performed pieces such as “King David” by Herbert Howells and “Steal Away” by Wheaton’s own Dr. Shawn Okpebholo. When Liverman and King introduced each set, the audience learned about the forthcoming pieces and their friendship.
“The most important musical relationship of my life was born out of the Wheaton community,” said King, following the concert.
According to King, his time at Wheaton also set him up for his career in music. “Wheaton gave me a platform to learn how to work with others and shaped my ability to find the gift of pursuing artistry together,” he said.
Liverman also recognizes the lasting impact Wheaton had on him. “I was so blessed to have an abundance of great educators in the Conservatory who gave me the educational tools and care I needed to succeed,” he said. “I graduated with so much confidence and support that helped carry me to the next chapter of my artistic journey.”
Returning to Wheaton to perform was meaningful for both Liverman and King. “It felt less like a performance and more like coming home to share our stories from the road,” Liverman said.
“It was a gift to be back on campus,” said King.
