Stephanie Dykes
|
Stephanie Dykes is a Seattle-based baritone ready to use her voice as an instrument for social change. While in high school, Stephanie discovered she had a gift as a singer, and she has been performing ever since. Since her transition in 2008, Stephanie has been a pioneer in her singing endeavors, often being the first and only transgender woman to sing and solo in churches and choruses across the United States and beyond. As a transgender woman, she feels especially fortunate to have been able to continue singing in her post – transition life. She is actively working on developing a career as a featured vocal soloist.
Stephanie completed her undergraduate work in history and business administration at Clemson University in South Carolina. She earned her Ph.D. in educational research and measurement from the University of South Carolina, where she also earned a Master of Arts in teaching. Stephanie has lived and worked in Seattle, Washington since 2015 when she accepted the position of executive director of institutional effectiveness at North Seattle College. She is a member of Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Kirkland, Washington, where she is a featured soloist. Stephanie has sung with the Seattle Men’s Chorus since 2018, and she is the first transgender woman to join this chorus in its 40+ year history. One constant in her life has been her love of singing, and she hopes to have the opportunity to sing for your organization. |
Testimonials
|
Reverend Ian Ferguson
Brunswick Uniting Church Melbourne, Australia |
"I met and got to know Stephanie remotely through the wonder of ZOOM - one of the few blessings of COVID has been the connections made possible across the world. I have seen her performing online and have been moved by the energy, commitment and passion of her singing. I recommend her to you as a performer of the highest quality."
|
|
Mike Rinehart
Bishop Texas – Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod (ELCA) Houston, Texas |
"I have known Stephanie for nearly three decades. We have sung together in worship. Her voice is clear and resonant, while her passion is evident."
|
|
Katy McCallum Sachse
Pastor Holy Spirit Lutheran Church Kirkland, Washington |
"Stephanie’s singing is beautiful and accomplished, but it is also a gift of welcome and joy to the community. In her song, we hear the love of God for all people and the joy of praising God’s radical and redeeming love."
|
|
John Sparkman
Director of Music Ministries Holy Spirit Lutheran Church Kirkland, Washington |
"Stephanie's vulnerability, kindness, and willingness to graciously share her personal story shines across all the music she chooses to offer. Her gentle, dynamic yet soothing, well-prepared vocal delivery rings with the sound of deep truth and grace."
|
|
Mark Glaeser
Minister of Music Christ Lutheran Church (ELCA) Charlotte, North Carolina |
"Stephanie’s voice was amazing from the first note! Rich, sonorous, and full. Her music is a window into her kind and compassionate heart - a rare gift!"
|
|
Brooks Glenn
Vice President, Board of Director Seattle Men’s Chorus and Seattle Women’s Chorus |
"Music has the power to move us, to change us. When we sit and listen to an artist share their talent and allow the music to 'speak to us' - it becomes a powerful moment. We tend to remember it forever. Not every artist has that ability. However, Stephanie does! When she sings, we feel it. We are hypnotized by her performance and share in her journey as she sings to us / speaks to us. It is memorable and powerful. She owns her style and is clear in her artistry and presentation. I witnessed her sing and was deeply moved. She is simply a powerful talent."
|