For many students, a love of music begins with a single lesson or performance. At the Community School of the Arts, that first spark often grows into a lifelong passion—one that continues to shape students well into their college years. For six Goshen College students, their journeys through the CSA have provided not only a strong musical foundation, but also a deep appreciation for community, collaboration, and artistic growth.
For Alina Bergstresser, music has been a constant since the age of three, when she first joined Kindermusik. Over the years, she explored piano, voice, and choir, culminating in her time with the Sommo Voci Choir in high school. Now an active member of Voices of the Earth and Chamber Choir at Goshen College, Alina credits the CSA with shaping both her musical skills and her love for making music in community. That sense of shared artistry continues to define her college experience, even as she gives back by assisting with the CSA’s Rejoice Children’s Choir.
Leah Hochstetler after a CSA recital with her dad, GC professor of music, Scott Hochstetler
Similarly, Leah Hochstetler began her musical journey early, starting Music Together at age two before moving on to violin lessons and choir. One of her favorite memories—singing the same piece as a college ensemble while still in Rejoice Choir—gave her a glimpse into the future she now inhabits. Today, Leah performs in Voices of the Earth, Chamber Choir, and orchestra, and even took the stage in a production of Hansel and Gretel. She notes that the foundational skills she developed at the CSA continue to support her success in music theory, aural skills, and ensemble performance.
Emmalynn Brown performing at the GC Piano and Strings Camp final concert
For Emmalynn Brown, the path to the CSA came later, but proved just as transformative. She began studying piano at the CSA with Dr. Luke Norell during her senior year of high school. Experiences like the Piano and Strings Summer Camp and her first recital helped her grow not only as a musician but also as a confident performer. Now deeply involved in choirs, musical productions, and private lessons at Goshen College, Emmalynn reflects on how her CSA training taught her to interpret music with depth and intention—skills that continue to elevate her work today.
Anton Alstrom-Brookhyser’s introduction to the CSA came midway through childhood, but it quickly became central to his life. From piano lessons to choir performances to serving as an intern with ECoSistema, his time at the CSA culminated in a memorable senior recital. Though initially hesitant to attend Goshen College, Anton found himself drawn to its combination of musical excellence and close-knit community. Now involved in an array of musical activities—from choir and orchestra to independent projects like accompanying a student-created musical—he emphasizes how the high level of training he received at the CSA prepared him to thrive in a rigorous college environment.
Julia Koch coaches a first violin sectional rehearsal for the Youth Honors Orchestra program
For violinist Julia Koch, discipline and dedication have been key themes throughout her musical journey. Beginning lessons at age five, she spent years refining her craft, participating in competitions, and exploring chamber music. Now continuing her studies while also teaching through the CSA, Julia represents the full circle of the program’s impact. Her experience highlights how the CSA not only develops skilled musicians but also cultivates future educators and mentors.
Violinist Lucca Kauffman took private lessons through the CSA in high school. She also took part in a piano trio with Anton and Julia coached by CSA piano director Dr. Luke Norell, thanks to the CSA’s partnership with the Fischoff Chamber Music Academy. A social work major, Lucca remains involved with music, taking violin lessons with Dr. Solomia Soroka, playing in the Goshen College Symphony Orchestra, singing in Chamber Choir and Voices of the Earth, and serving as a member of the chapel singing team and previously the Parables music and worship team.
Together, these stories illustrate the lasting impact of the CSA experience. Whether students begin at age two or discover the program later in their musical journey, the lessons they learn—technical skill, artistic expression, and the joy of collaboration—stay with them. As these students continue to grow at Goshen College, their stories stand as a testament to the power of early musical education and the vibrant community that nurtures it.