2004 alumnus Jace Wittig says his education at Ball State thoroughly prepared him to sing with Chanticleer, a multiple Grammy-award winning and internationally renowned male choral group.

"My learning experience at Ball State was wonderful," says Wittig, a baritone from Indianapolis. "The School of Music is very well-rounded, and the students have access to everything they need to learn and succeed."

Two years after earning a bachelor's degree in vocal performance from Ball State, Wittig joined Chanticleer, called "America's favorite choral ensemble" by The New Yorker magazine. Wittig said School of Music faculty gave him the motivation to explore more prestigious opportunities.

"My voice teacher, Dr. Craig Priebe, had a huge influence on me," Wittig said. "He was my life coach and motivated me to seek new opportunities."

Priebe, an associate professor of music performance, later helped Wittig polish his audition pieces for Chanticleer.

Wittig believes Ball State’s size is just right. The campus is small enough for students to get specialized attention but large enough to provide invaluable opportunities for personal growth.

Music students at Ball State, Wittig said, "are receiving a top-notch education and exposure."