May 12, 2025
Contact: Sara Diedrich, diedrichs@missouri.edu
Photos courtesy of Vaysia Knust
Vaysia Knust can’t pinpoint exactly when music first took root in her heart — but according to family lore, her mother sang to her in the womb. After she was born, her father joined in, serenading her with songs from his rock band repertoire.
By age 3, Knust was singing. By 5, she was performing. And by 10, she was writing original songs.
This weekend, the Blue Springs, Missouri, native will once again step into the spotlight — this time to perform “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “Old Missouri” at her commencement ceremony for the University of Missouri College of Arts and Science. It’s the perfect crescendo to the music major’s Mizzou journey.
“I have known since career day in elementary school that I wanted to perform and sing,” she said. “What better way to end my time at Mizzou than to sing at my graduation.”
Perfect pitch
This won’t be Knust’s first time performing at a Mizzou commencement ceremony. She previously took the stage at the university’s December 2024 graduation, impressing the audience — including University of Missouri President Mun Choi, who was so moved by her vocals that he personally invited her to perform again this spring.
“That was pretty exciting,” she admitted.
Knust has known the words to Mizzou’s alma mater for as long as she can remember, having grown up singing it with her grandmother — a proud Mizzou alumna. Her grandmother, who went on to become a math teacher, was the reason she chose Mizzou — and they still sing “Old Missouri” every time they see each other.
By the time she applied, Knust was already familiar with Mizzou, having visited several times for state singing competitions.
“I just fell in love with the beauty of the campus,” she said. “Once I set foot on campus, I was hooked.”
Rock ’n’ opera
Every year since coming to Mizzou, Knust has performed in the Show-Me Opera program, which has been among the most rewarding aspects of her college experience.
“I’ve loved the opportunity to step on stage and bring a wide range of characters to life. In addition, my major requires two solo recitals, which have significantly broadened my repertoire,” she said. “These experiences have not only deepened my skills as a performer but also added valuable roles to my resume and given me meaningful, real-world performance experience.”
Training for opera has also done wonders for her vocals as the lead singer in a rock band called Chronokinesis. The five-member group, which writes many of its own songs, has already released an EP and four singles and is working on an album.
“Opera assists me in being able to do crazier things with my voice than other singers,” Knust said, adding that a technique she’s learned has helped preserve her voice. “I can scream in my rock songs without damaging my voice.”
Read on for a Q&A with Knust about her Mizzou experience:
Who at Mizzou played an instrumental role in your college experience and what lessons did you learn from that person?
Christine Seitz, a voice instructor at the School of Music, was my first vocal instructor at Mizzou. Her guidance has shaped me in countless ways. She helped me grow not only as a vocalist, but also in professionalism and time management. She pushed me beyond what I believed I was capable of, and for that, I am deeply grateful. One of the most valuable lessons she taught me was the importance of a consistent, intentional practice schedule — developing a daily plan that truly strengthened and refined my voice.
What are your favorite Mizzou memories?
When I was living at University Place, I had two hilarious roommates, and I always loved how goofy every evening was with them. Another would be meeting President Choi after performing in Show-Me Opera: Ariodante. I did not realize he was such a big opera fan, but getting to meet him and talk about my favorite operas and singers was wonderful.
Looking back on your college career, what are the biggest lessons you’ve learned?
I have learned to start early. I am someone who procrastinates, and by beginning early and setting goals for myself, I am able to accomplish so much more and have time to actually take care of myself.
What advice would you give to incoming Mizzou students?
Take yourself seriously. If you are passionate about what you're doing and willing to learn, you will grow at Mizzou. Take time for yourself, but be honest with the work you're putting in.
What’s next for you?
This summer, I’ll be traveling to Italy with Mizzou’s University Singers, where I will have the opportunity to perform “Ave Maria.” I will also begin private voice lessons as I prepare to audition for opera companies and keep performing. Other than that, I will be doing some shows with my band, Chronokinesis.
“My Mizzou Years” Playlist
We asked Knust for a short playlist of songs that remind her of Mizzou. Here’s what topped the charts.
- “Mykonos” by Fleet Foxes
Freshman Year
The sound of springtime on campus — walking from McDavid past the Columns, flowers blooming, students laughing. "Brother, don’t you forget…" This one felt like home early on. - “Golden Restless Age” by Kings of Leon
Sophomore Year
A cramped apartment, long campus walks, 5-mile runs and late-night study sessions. A reminder: This is your time. The soundtrack of resilience and independence. - “Little Chaos” by Orla Gartland
Senior Year
Irish pop joy — upbeat and bursting with energy. Perfect for strutting across campus with a coffee in hand and a head full of plans. A celebration of making it this far. - “Last Goodbye” by Jeff Buckley
A Song for Healing
Deep grief, close friendships and finding the courage to show up for others. Vocals that reach into the soul and lyrics that helped carry you through some dark days — and helped others, too. - “The Stranger” by Billy Joel
A Performer’s Reflection
The internal monologue of an artist. Reminding yourself not to hide, to stay honest — in performance and in life. A check-in song when you need to reset and recenter.
