Biography
Justin Selmeyer is the Choral Director at South Dearborn Middle School and South Dearborn High School. He is a graduate of Northern Kentucky University with a Degree in Music Education and also holds a Masters Degree of Education from Indiana Wesleyan University. In 2015, he completed in licensing in Administration. During Mr. Selmeyer's tenure, Opening Knight has transformed into a highly competitive small mixed show choir. Opening Knight has won 48 Grand Championships and other awards, such as Outstanding Vocals, Choreography, Set Design, Show, and Stage Crew. Mr. Selmeyer resides in Aurora with his wife Kristen and their daughter, Marlee. He looks forward to continuing the success at South Dearborn High School. Mr. Selmeyer's contact info is [email protected].
Jason Johnson is a professional singer, dancer and choreographer. Jason is a graduate of Ball State University where he received his Bachelor’s degree in both Choral and Instrumental Music Education. While at Ball State, he was a five-year member, choreographer, and dance captain of the nationally renowned Ball State University Singers under the direction of Dr. Fritz Mountford. This year will mark Jason’s 25th year choreographing competitive show choirs. During this time, groups he has worked with have been named “Grand Champions” and received “Best Choreography” numerous times, as well as being consistent finalists. Jason has been seen in the national tour of the Broadway Musical “Thoroughly Modern Millie” as well as a featured performer in the international cast of the Broadway Musical “FOSSE.” He has also worked as a performer for Opryland Productions, Busch Gardens, Cedar Point, Holland America and Radisson Cruise Lines, and several regional musical theaters around the country. As well as high schools and universities, Jason has choreographed for Cedar Point, Radisson Cruise Lines, and the Steve Gatlin Christmas Show in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Jason has twice performed as the opening act for Kenny Rodgers.
Jeff Burton graduated from South Dearborn High School in 2010 and was a 4 year member of Opening Knight. Currently, he is in retail management at Hibbett Sports. Jeff is a very talented dancer and serves as a choreographer for Opening Knight. He has won several Outstanding Choreography awards in his young career. Jeff's fondest memory of Opening Knight was winning the first ever grand championship in Opening Knight history.
Brooke Smolder graduated from Marshall University in 2005 with a BA in education, math and physical education, as well as an MS in Athletic Administration. At Marshall University, Brooke was a four year member and captain of the dance team. She continued at MU to become head coach of the team for an additional five years. Brooke has choreographed and coached many high school dance teams and cheerleading squads in WV. Brooke choreographs for several middle school and high school show choirs throughout the state of West Virginia and Ohio. In addition to being a choreographer and show choir adjudicator, Brooke is devoted to her children and her church. Brooke resides in Ripley, WV with her husband Eddie and her children Braylie and Eddric.
Zach Francis serves as the Instrumental Director of the Opening Knight Combo Band. He is the Elementary Music Teacher at Aurora Elementary School.
Director Emeritus
Matt Trossman is the assistant director of Opening Knight. Matt is currently the organist and Chancel Choir director for Batesville United Methodist Church and is the director of the Holy Family Parish Choir in Oldenburg, Indiana. His musical career includes teaching K-8 music for 7 years, accompanying numerous choirs including SS. Peter and Paul Catheral Parish Choir in Indianapolis, the Oldenburg Acadmey Singers, and South Dearborn High School choirs, and performing as a singer, guest conductor, and music director for various show throughout the Cincinnati area. He is a graduate of Butler University with a Degree in Music Education. Mr. Trossman resides in Oldenburg, Indiana with his wife Marcie and their four children.