Music of the Baroque names new chorus director
Music of the Baroque announced Thursday that William Jon Gray has been named its new chorus director, effective with the opening of the 2010-2011 season in the fall.
Gray prepared the Music of the Baroque Chorus for the acclaimed performances of Mozart’s Requiem in February.
“Bill Gray has wide-ranging experience as a choral conductor as well as strong practical knowledge and a deep love of Music of the Baroque’s signature repertoire,” said executive director Karen Fishman. “We’re delighted that he is joining us as chorus director.”
Director of choral activities at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, Gray conducts the school’s Pro Arte Singers and teaches choral conducting and the choral literature.
Gray will have much work to do in Music of the Baroque’s upcoming 40th aniversary season, with the chorus featured in several works including Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas, Handel’s Messiah and the complete Bach Christmas Oratorio.
Gray will also conduct the annual Holiday Brass and Choral Concerts in December.
Music of the Baroque’s season opens Sept. 26 with Jane Glover leading an all-Purcell program including Dido and Aeneas. www.baroque.org.
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2 Responses to “Music of the Baroque names new chorus director”
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Posted Jun 16, 2010 at 10:22 am by Karl Brandt
I have had the privilege of singing under Bill Gray as a member of Lafayette’s (IN) Bach Chorale Singers for the past 15 years. He is a marvelous music director who produces incredibly beautiful music. Through him I have been given the opportunity to sing many of the great choral works, including a performance of “Solomon” at Indiana University. You are fortunate to attract such a talented director. My guess is that many of us from Lafayette will journey to Chicago to hear some concerts he directs for you.
Posted Jun 17, 2010 at 9:29 am by Marc Loudon
I worked as accompanist with Bill Gray while he was music director of the Bach Chorale Singers from 1993-2010. The Baroque is his great strength, and he brings both a lively yet scholarly approach to this repertoire. He conducts with great precision and skill. This is a great move for Music of the Baroque, and you won’t be disappointed!