Laurissa Backlin

Laurissa Backlin is an Associate Professor of Music and Director of Vocal Studies at Carson-Newman University. She teaches Applied Voice, Lyric Diction, and conducts the Women Singers choir. Her roles include Auditions Chair for the TN NATS Chapter and former Auditions Chair for the MS NATS Chapter (2017-2020).

• PhD: Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of North Texas

Her research focuses on vocal performance, blues influence in art songs, and choral music. She has presented at conferences including the College Music Society, American Choral Directors Association, and International Conference on the Blues. Performance highlights include Fauré’s Requiem with C-N choirs and solo work with ensembles like the Philadelphia Singers and Red Shift Choir.

She leads applied voice lessons at the Csehy Summer School of Music annually, emphasizing Christian music education for youth.