Solo Cello

Stokes, who studied cello performance at the University of Miami, singled out Penn State’s School of Music for her graduate work because she could simultaneously serve as a teaching assistant and earn her master’s degree. “I grew a lot as a teacher,” says Stokes, who worked under distinguished professor Kim Cook. During her two years at Penn State, Stokes also flourished in performance opportunities: As the winner of the 2023 Penn State Concerto Competition, Stokes had the chance to perform solo with an orchestra—a career highlight.

Very Vocal

“The cello has a huge range—it’s the closest instrument to the human voice,” says Stokes. “I’m not a singer, but I love to sing through my instrument.”

Superstar Status

Last spring, she was invited to play with the Philharmonic Orchestra Project as part of the 2024 North American tour for Puerto Rican rapper and pop star Bad Bunny. She contributed to overtures and songs in each of the 49 shows—many of them in sold-out arenas that broke U.S. concert gross records—and missed her graduation ceremony due to being on tour. “It was an enormous production,” recalls Stokes ’24 MMus A&A. “We traveled with a crew of nearly 300 people and had pyro, lasers, lights, horse handlers, and wardrobe.”

Culture of Composers

Stokes was elated to receive Penn State funding last summer to play classical music at festivals and concerts in Germany and Poland. “The audiences we were playing for really know this music,” she says. “They are listening to it in a different way.”

Bright Lights

Since coming to Penn State, Stokes has been able to visit New York, build a network there, and get familiarized with its music scene. She is moving to the city in the fall and will be applying and auditioning for gigs. 

Hometown: Centerville, Minn.

Campus: University Park

Claim to Fame: Winner of 2023 Penn State Concerto Competition

Hobbies: The avid runner jogged in all 31 cities while on tour with Bad Bunny. “It’s the best way to sightsee,” says Stokes.