Karissa began writing snippets of music at age 10 and is now an emerging composer in sacred music publishing.

Handbell Compositions

Over twenty of Karissa's arrangements for handbells and handchimes are in print. Many are currently released through Lorenz, Ringing Word, Jeffers, Morning Star, Beckenhorst Press, GIA Publications, and Hope (Agape). They are for Level 1 and 2 ringers, 2-3 and 3-5 octaves, incorporating fun techniques such as singing bell, shake, swing, martellato, pluck, and mallets.

Choral Compositions

Karissa's first choral anthem, Prayer for Peace, is in print through Shawnee Press. She composes a range of sacred choral works. Most are written for SATB with piano accompaniment, and some also offer optional solo instrument (flute, cello, percussion). 

In 2011, Karissa was commissioned by professional vocal ensemble From Age to Age to arrange O Holy Night for SSAATTBB and marimba. The piece was performed throughout their 2011 Christmas Tour. (Listen to the recording from one of their live performances.)