McKinley Uelmen has been enthused about the arts ever since he can remember. From an early age and throughout college, McKinley participated in concert band, marching band, choir, a cappella, show choir, and theatre. During his time at Oak Creek High School, McKinley became super involved and recognized with the arts, becoming an International Championship of High School A Cappella (ICHSA) Finalist, two-time ICHSA Outstanding Choreography award recipient, three-time Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) State Marching Band Champion, and Senior President of Theatre Department.
McKinley graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 2023 with a B.S. in Music with an Arts Administration certificate. During his time at UW-Eau Claire, McKinley was an integral member of many arts organizations both on campus and within the Eau Claire Community. McKinley worked as a Department Assistant for the UWEC Choral Area and as a Marketing Intern for the Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra. During his time in Impromptu A Cappella, he served as Music Director and President while also being a full-time vocal percussionist and award-winning arranger for the group, leading the ensemble to an award-winning performance in competition since the group's last competition participation back in 2010. In his free time, McKinley works as a freelance arranger for UW-Eau Claire and other schools throughout Wisconsin.
Joining as the one and only staff member for the Port Washington-Saukville Performing Arts Center in April 2024, McKinley strives to flourish the performance space with student creativity and community engagement. McKinley is committed to providing impactful performances and learning opportunities for all students, community members, and performers.
Currently, he resides in Greenfield, right outside of Milwaukee, with his soon-to-be husband, Kyle, and their two cats, Casper and Hazel.
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