Dr. Burak Onur Erdem is a renowned conductor with a distinguished career. He holds a Master’s in Music Theory and a Ph.D. in Conducting from ITU Centre for Advanced Studies in Music and Kunstuniversität Graz, respectively. His musical journey has been enriched by masterclasses with renowned conductors such as Maria Guinand, Georg Grün, and Frieder Bernius.
He has achieved notable success as the conductor of the Rezonans Choir, winning prizes in prestigious international competitions. As the Principal Conductor of the Turkish State Choir, he has premiered numerous new choral works and led performances across Europe.
Dr. Erdem's contributions to the choral music community extend beyond his conducting roles. He is a co-founder of the Walter Strauss Choral Conducting Masterclass and a professor at Bilkent University. He has also served as the President of the Choral Culture Association, which has organized numerous choral events and initiatives.
Recognized internationally, Dr. Erdem has been a jury member and advisor for competitions and festivals worldwide. He has held leadership positions in prestigious organizations such as the European Choral Association and the International Federation of Choral Music. His dedication to choral music and his significant contributions to the field have solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the international choral community.
Daud Kosasih is a distinguished Indonesian composer and conductor, renowned for his significant contributions to the choral music scene, both nationally and internationally. He holds a Master of Arts in Church Music from Tainan Theological College and Seminary (TTCS) in Taiwan, where he benefited from a prestigious scholarship. His foundational musical education was acquired at The Asian Institute for Liturgy and Music (AILM) in the Philippines, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in composition.
Kosasih's passion for choral music is evident in his role as the founder and conductor of the Methodist-2 Chamber Choir. Under his visionary leadership, this ensemble has gained international acclaim, representing Indonesia on stages across Asia, Oceania, and beyond. Through their performances, the choir has showcased the rich tapestry of Indonesian culture and music, fostering intercultural exchange and appreciation.
As a sought-after guest conductor and adjudicator, Kosasih has shared his expertise with choral ensembles worldwide. His deep understanding of choral technique, coupled with his passion for musical interpretation, has inspired countless singers and conductors. His frequent involvement in international choral festivals and competitions has solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the global choral community.
Beyond his conducting and performing activities, Kosasih is an active educator, regularly delivering seminars and workshops to aspiring musicians. His commitment to nurturing the next generation of choral artists is evident in his work with various music institutions and organizations.
Ethan Sperry, a renowned choral conductor, holds the prestigious position of Barre Stoll Professor of Choral Music at Portland State University. His academic journey includes a Bachelor's degree in Philosophy from Harvard College and advanced degrees in Choral Conducting from the University of Southern California.
As the Artistic Director and Conductor of the Oregon Repertory Singers, Sperry has led his choirs to numerous accolades, including top prizes at international competitions and performances at prestigious venues like the Hollywood Bowl and the Kennedy Center. His recordings have received critical acclaim, with his 2017 release "The Doors of Heaven" topping the Billboard Classical Chart.
Sperry's influence extends beyond the United States. He has collaborated with renowned composer A.R. Rahman and served as a consultant for the KM Music Conservatory in India. His expertise is recognized internationally, as evidenced by his jury memberships and advisory roles at prestigious choral competitions and festivals.
Sperry's commitment to fostering musical excellence is evident in his work as a conductor, educator, and arranger. His dedication to his craft has solidified his position as a leading figure in the global choral community.
Dr. Jamie Hillman is a distinguished conductor, educator, and composer-arranger. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Boston University and a Master of Music degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. His academic journey began at the Royal Conservatory of Music (Toronto) and Western University.
As the Elmer Iseler Chair in Conducting at the University of Toronto, Dr. Hillman leads the U of T MacMillan Singers and directs graduate programs in Choral Conducting. He has also held faculty positions at prestigious institutions such as Boston University, Longy School of Music, and Tyndale University.
Dr. Hillman is a sought-after conductor, adjudicator, and clinician. He has led All-State and honor choirs in numerous states and provinces, conducted world premieres, and served as a juror at international competitions. His work has been recognized with awards such as the Leslie Bell Prize for Choral Conducting.
In addition to his conducting and teaching roles, Dr. Hillman is a prolific composer-arranger and a respected scholar. He has published numerous articles and books on choral music and serves as an editor for several music publishing houses. His dedication to the art of choral music has made him a significant figure in the international music community.
Dr. Joel Navarro is a prominent figure in the world of choral music, renowned for his expertise as a conductor, educator, composer, and scholar. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree and has taught at prestigious institutions such as Calvin University, the University of the Philippines College of Music, and the Asian Institute for Liturgy and Music.
As a conductor, Dr. Navarro has led numerous choirs to international acclaim. He is particularly known for his work with the Ateneo de Manila University Glee Club, which achieved significant success under his direction. His dedication to choral excellence has been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the Centennial Awardee in Choral Conducting from the U.P. College of Music.
Dr. Navarro's contributions to the field of music education are equally impressive. He has served as a mentor and advisor to countless young musicians and has written extensively on choral conducting and pedagogy. His book, "INSPIRARE: Breathing New Life into Our Music," is a valuable resource for church musicians.
In addition to his teaching and conducting roles, Dr. Navarro is a talented composer and arranger. His works have been performed by choirs around the world, and he has collaborated with renowned musicians and composers.
With a distinguished career spanning several decades, Dr. Navarro continues to inspire and shape the future of choral music. His passion, dedication, and expertise have made him a respected figure in the international music community.