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Marissa Ankeny
The South Carolina School of the Arts
The South Carolina School of the Arts
Adjunct Professor of Music
mankeny@andersonuniversity.edu
Academic Background
Originally from New Port Richey, FL, Marissa Ankeny is pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Oboe Performance at the University of Georgia. An active performer and educator, she has appeared with ensembles including the Augusta Symphony, Hilton Head Symphony, and Charleston Symphony, while also building a vibrant studio of young double reed players. Since 2023, she has served as Adjunct Faculty at Anderson University, teaching oboe and bassoon to undergraduate students. Marissa now makes her home in Athens, GA, with her husband, Rocky.
BM in Instrumental Music: Music Education, Liberty University
BM in Oboe Performance with a minor in Bassoon Performance, Liberty University
MM in Oboe Performance, University of Georgia
DMA in Oboe Performance with a minor in Bassoon Performance (in progress), University of Georgia
Fast Facts
My private oboe and bassoon lessons are weekly one-on-one sessions designed to help students grow at their own pace—whether you’re just getting started or have been playing for years. We focus on building a strong foundation in tone, technique, rhythm, articulation, and phrasing, while also exploring form, interpretation, and your unique musical voice. Lessons are tailored to your level and goals, and I strive to create a welcoming, encouraging space where you feel both challenged and supported. There’s always more to discover, and I love helping students find joy and confidence in their playing!
After attending a public high school, I chose to pursue my undergraduate studies at Liberty University—a place where I was encouraged to grow not just academically and musically, but also spiritually. The faculty there poured into us with the goal of shaping “Champions for Christ,” and I feel called to do the same for my students at Anderson University.
At AU, I get to live out my purpose: training the next generation of musicians to use their gifts to improve and impact the world for Christ. There is no higher calling for me. Anderson’s Christ-centered mission, forward-looking curriculum, and strong support for the integration of faith and learning provide an incredible environment for both teaching and growth. It’s a joy to be part of this community.
There are so many different paths you can take with the oboe or bassoon—even if you don’t plan to play professionally! Studying a double reed instrument builds more than just musical skills. It teaches discipline, focus, perseverance, and attentive listening—qualities that carry over into any career field. Whether you pursue music full-time or take what you’ve learned into another profession, your time spent growing as a musician will never be wasted.
I’ve had the privilege of performing with ensembles such as the Augusta Symphony, Charleston Symphony Orchestra, Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Sinfonia, and even in a rehearsal with the Atlanta Symphony. I’ve also played in numerous opera and theatre productions and served as a member of the UGA Southern Wind Quintet. My experience extends beyond the stage as well—I’ve worked as a Teaching Assistant at the Brevard Music Center and processed oboe and English horn cane for Hodge Products, gaining hands-on expertise in reed making. During my time at Liberty University, I served as Drum Major for the marching band, a role that helped shape my leadership and musicianship in meaningful ways.
Without a doubt—working with my students! Watching them grow in skill, confidence, and creativity is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching. Whether it’s hearing a breakthrough in tone, watching a student step into a new leadership role, or helping them prepare for a performance or audition, I love being part of their musical journey. It’s a joy to walk alongside them and cheer them on as they develop into the musicians and people they are called to be.
Oboe, bassoon, English horn, reed making, chamber and orchestral playing, solo repertoire, and audition preparation