Washington Adventist University’s Young Baritone Lysle S. Follette, IV, Gains Global Recognition

TAKOMA PARK, Md. (Sept. 10, 2024) — Lysle S. Follette, IV, a 19-year-old baritone and student at Washington Adventist University, is making a name for himself in the music world. Follette performs with the Washington Adventist Pro Musica under the direction of Dr. Anwar Ottley, captivating audiences with his skill and passion.

Follette’s musical journey began in second grade when he performed as a soloist in his school’s Christmas program. His talent gained international attention in 2015 when he was invited to sing at the General Conference session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in San Antonio, Texas. That same year, he recorded for the “Kids Time!” television program, which still airs globally.

Lysle S. Follette, IV, views music as a profound and mysterious force that transcends definition. “Music is the most unexplainable explainable force, if that makes sense,” Follette said. “The beauty of music cannot be boxed-in with a simple definition and that speaks volumes to me.” For Follette, music is more than just an art form; it is a deeply spiritual experience that allows him to connect with something greater than himself.

To Follette, music serves as the ultimate expression of creativity and worship. “Music is eternal. In Heaven, we will all be singing. Music is of God, as Zephaniah 3:17 says that the Lord rejoices over us with singing,” he said. “Music is my way of expressing my adoration for the Creator, and it is the bridge that God has given me to connect other people to Him.” This connection between music and faith drives Follette’s passion and fuels his desire to share his talents with the world.

His performances have taken him from Washington, D.C., to international venues. In sixth grade, he toured Europe with the Jeremy Winston Chorale and the Central State University Choir. Follette has also graced prestigious stages such as Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, and Capital One Arena. Recently, he performed at the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C., commemorating 45 years of U.S.-China diplomatic relations.

“Lysle is an exceptional young man,” said Daniel Lau, professor and chair of the music department at Washington Adventist University. “He came to WAU full of talent and creativity, and he has worked extremely hard. His recent performance at the Chinese Embassy, where he sang in Mandarin for the first time next to native speakers, is a testament to the bright future ahead of him.”

In addition to his vocal achievements, Follette has dabbled in composition, with one of his early works performed by the Oakwood University Aeolians, two-time World Choir Games champions. He is currently pursuing a degree in vocal performance at Washington Adventist University, further honing his talents.

Follette’s distinctive baritone voice and global appeal position him as a rising star in the world of music and a sought-after performer for high-profile events.