James Kirkham is a classically trained Tenor and recent graduate of Central Washington University, with degrees in Chemistry and Vocal Performance. While at Central, he sang in multiple choirs, including the auditioned Chamber Choir and Vocal Jazz 1; and also participated in CWU’s Opera program, performing in 2023’s Viva Italia! opera workshop, 2024’s production of Die Fledermaus; in the role of Alfred; and 2025’s 21st Century American One-Act Operas. He is very excited to be returning for his second season with the Yakima Symphony Chorus as the Tenor Young Artist. Alongside the Young Artist position, he is also singing with Canticus Vocal Ensemble and auditioning for graduate programs in Vocal Performance.

Nicole Loveless is a soprano living in Ellensburg, Washington. She completed her bachelor’s degree in Vocal Performance at Central Washington University studying under Dr. Melissa Schiel, and intends to pursue a master’s degree in Opera Performance. While in undergraduate study, Nicole enjoyed three years in CWU Chamber Choir and two years in CWU Vocal Jazz I, the school’s top two vocal ensembles. Notable performance accolades include Strauss’ Die Fledermaus (Rosalinda) and Verdi’s Falstaff (ensemble) at the 2025 International Lyric Academy opera program in Italy, an invited performance at the 2025 National American Choral Directors’ Association Conference with CWU Vocal Jazz I, and Dan Shore’s The Beautiful Bridegroom (Leonora) at Central Washington University. In addition, Nicole has performed major works including Orff’s Carmina Burana, Fauré’s Requiem, Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms, and Handel’s Messiah; pt. 1.

A recent Central Washington University graduate, Miranda holds degrees in Liberal Studies and Percussion Performance. In her undergraduate experience she has participated in many ensembles such as CWU Chamber Choir and Vocal Jazz 1, and instrumental ensembles such as Symphony Orchestra and Percussion Ensemble.

Training classical as a soprano, Miranda studied under Dr. Melissa Schiel and Dr. Nicole Lamartine. In recent years Miranda has participated in three opera seasons at Central; 2022’s production Viva Italia!, 2023’s production of Die Fledermaus (Adele), and 2024’s production of The Beautiful Bridegroom (Pernille). She was also a featured soloist in W.A. Mozart’s Regina Caeli and the Wind Ensemble’s performance of Greensleeves. 

Currently Miranda is continuing her music studies as a Choral Music Education post-baccalaureate, with plans to teach at the middle school level. She sings with the Canticus Vocal Ensemble under the direction of Dr. Scott Peterson, and is looking forward to a great year with the Yakima Symphony Chorus!