Brilliant Ocean Mentors

Preston is currently studying Vocal/Choral Music Education at Illinois State University. On top of that Preston has numerous years of teaching under his belt. Whether it be his time as a private voice teacher, daycare worker, assistant teacher, or a choir director he has experienced many different areas of the education field. Preston has directed multiple groups, and has had many students who's ages range from pre-k -12th grade. As an educator Preston's main goal is to help his students feel confident in expressing themselves even if it may not be the easiest thing to do. All of the groups that Preston has taught previously have all been extremely successful. Audience members praised the experiences he puts on, and have given many joyful reviews to the shows that he puts on. The performers in shows put on by Preston describe the experience as inspiring, thrilling, and satisfying. He does this by capturing the passion of his performers and allowing it to grow by encouraging self driven motivation. 

As a performer Preston has had a variety of successful. Preston has been singing in choirs for 10 years. He was a part of the successful show choir "Entourage" for four years. He has sung numerous solo competitions. Preston was also a member of the Illinois All State Show Choir. Preston has had many roles in theater productions ranging from plays to musicals. He has also been a part of the Gamma Phi Circus at Illinois State University where he has had the chance to perform professionally, and learn from the gurus of show business.

  Hi! My name is Mel, I’m 20 years old and I’m a junior at Illinois State University majoring in English education. In my free time I love going fishing, going to concerts, and hanging out with friends! I chose to major in teaching because I’ve always had a passion for it since I was a kid. I would say I’m pretty energetic and love connecting with others which makes believe I will undoubtedly impact students positively in the future! 

 Luka is currently attending Illinois State University as an English Secondary Education undergraduate student. Previously, Luka was selected twice for the Illinois All State ACDA Show Choir. This, coupled with his year serving as a vocal captain for Naperville North High School’s mixed show choir Entourage, provided Luka with plenty of experience working with musical students at various skill levels. Luka hopes to help guide students in discovering their passions for music. 

 Grant Dixon is a Junior Choral Music Education major at Illinois State University, where he has immersed himself in the vibrant musical community. With over 15 years of singing experience, Grant has cultivated a deep passion for vocal performance and education. For the past three years, he has honed their teaching skills as a Private Music Instructor, guiding students in developing their own abilities. At Illinois State, Grant serves as an Ambassador for the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts - School of Music, a role that allows him to represent and promote the school’s programs and initiatives. His leadership extends to the American Choral Directors Association at Illinois State University, where he holds the position of Vice President, contributing to the growth and development of the choral community on campus. In recognition of their dedication to education and music, Grant was named a Golden Apple of Illinois Scholar in the Class of 2022, a prestigious honor that acknowledges their commitment to becoming an exceptional educator.