Professor Justin Payne’s students have excelled vocally and were chosen for highly coveted national performances recently. Cordae Taylor, tenor, was selected by H. Michael Dryver, to sing the role of Emmett Till in a new work commissioned by the The Emmett Till Foundation.  The composition,  Requiem of a Little Lamb, was performed in Chicago at the First Baptist Congregational Church in August of 2024.

Jayde Dorsey, soprano, was recently recognized when chosen to sing for the Kamala Harris/Tim Walz rally held at the Astro in La Vista, Nebraska.  Recognized for her superior vocal skills, Jayde has also been asked to sing for Doane University, 100 Black Men of Omaha and Salem Baptist Church’s “Joyful Noise” holiday celebration.  On top of Jayde’s musical talents, she has participated in pageants throughout Nebraska and the country.

Professor Payne continues his work as an Instructor of Voice at the University of Nebraska while continuing his private studio and serving as Minister of Music at Second Baptist Church.  Payne is a sought after music director, composer and performer nationally and internationally.