Transforming lives through musical excellence.
A world of friendship, love, and joy through music made together.
Character, Excellence, Belonging, Community, Integrity
The St. Louis Children’s Choirs serves over 350 singers (ages 6 to 18) from more than 100 schools and 55 zip codes in Missouri and Illinois. These young artists bring their talent and love of classical, sacred, contemporary, and world music to concert stages for everyone to enjoy.
Under the leadership of Artistic Director Dr. Alyson Moore, outstanding music directors train our young singers with diverse and challenging curriculum in seven different ensembles based on age and musical ability. The Choirs offers young artists world-class performance opportunities and a choral music experience that emphasizes musical excellence and character education.
We promote individual growth through teamwork, responsibility, leadership, humility, and discipline.
We practice and perform music at the highest level of achievement while displaying professionalism, kindness, and respect.
We value the beauty of each voice and ensure that every singer feels welcome.
We create harmony and build community through the power of music.
We adhere to the highest standards of ethical conduct.
Chris Boemler is a lifelong musician and Missouri resident. He holds a Master of Music Education from VanderCook College of Music in Chicago and a dual Bachelor in Music Education from Missouri State University in both Vocal and Instrumental Music. Chris taught Vocal Music in the Jackson R-2 school district, and Vocal Music, Piano, and Music Theory in the Festus R-6 School district. In addition to conducting Chorale 2B with the St. Louis Children's Choirs, Chris also serves as the music director for the Kingsbury Place Singers, a part of the St. Louis Christmas Carols Association. Chris sings professionally with the No Name Chorale of Belleville and with the St. Louis Chamber Chorus and serves on the board of the Chamber Chorus as the Singer Representative. Professionally Chris is a member of the Missouri Choral Directors Association.
Chris Boemler is a lifelong musician and Missouri resident. He holds a Master of Music Education from VanderCook College of Music in Chicago and a dual Bachelor in Music Education from Missouri State University in both Vocal and Instrumental Music. Chris taught Vocal Music in the Jackson R-2 school district, and Vocal Music, Piano, and Music Theory in the Festus R-6 School district. In addition to conducting Chorale 2B with the St. Louis Children's Choirs, Chris also serves as the music director for the Kingsbury Place Singers, a part of the St. Louis Christmas Carols Association. Chris sings professionally with the No Name Chorale of Belleville and with the St. Louis Chamber Chorus and serves on the board of the Chamber Chorus as the Singer Representative. Professionally Chris is a member of the Missouri Choral Directors Association.
Mrs. Adrienne Broyles holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Vocal Performance with a minor in languages and a Master of Arts degree in Music Education from Indiana University- Bloomington. Mrs. Broyles joined the artistic staff of the St. Louis Children’s Choirs in 2001. She has completed Level II in Kodály, Level II in Orff-Schulwerk, and after studying under the baton of Dr. Doreen Rao, Cheryl Dupont, Bob Chilcott, and Mandy Miller, she was awarded an Artist-Teacher Diploma from the CME Institute for Choral Teacher Education. Under her direction, the Children's Choir ensemble (ranging from grades 3-6), has grown and thrived. As a result, her singers have performed for various events throughout St. Louis such as the Martin Luther King Celebration at Harris Stowe State University, the Orff-Schulwerk National Conference, and for the St. Louis Kodály Chapter. In addition, Mrs. Broyles’s children’s choir ensembles have premiered several choral works by composers such as Dr. Mary Goetze, Bob Chilcott, and Dr. Horst Buchholz.
In addition, she has been an adjudicator of the St. Louis Fox Theatre Teen Talent Competition and for several choral contests throughout the St. Louis region. Mrs. Broyles has presented choral workshops and served as guest conductor/clinician for numerous districts and festivals in Missouri, Tennessee, Nebraska, and Wisconsin.
Lastly, Mrs. Broyles was named 2010 Teacher of the Year at Mason Ridge Elementary and is currently a Vocal Music teacher at Parkway West Middle School.
Mrs. Adrienne Broyles holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Vocal Performance with a minor in languages and a Master of Arts degree in Music Education from Indiana University- Bloomington. Mrs. Broyles joined the artistic staff of the St. Louis Children’s Choirs in 2001. She has completed Level II in Kodály, Level II in Orff-Schulwerk, and after studying under the baton of Dr. Doreen Rao, Cheryl Dupont, Bob Chilcott, and Mandy Miller, she was awarded an Artist-Teacher Diploma from the CME Institute for Choral Teacher Education. Under her direction, the Children's Choir ensemble (ranging from grades 3-6), has grown and thrived. As a result, her singers have performed for various events throughout St. Louis such as the Martin Luther King Celebration at Harris Stowe State University, the Orff-Schulwerk National Conference, and for the St. Louis Kodály Chapter. In addition, Mrs. Broyles’s children’s choir ensembles have premiered several choral works by composers such as Dr. Mary Goetze, Bob Chilcott, and Dr. Horst Buchholz.
In addition, she has been an adjudicator of the St. Louis Fox Theatre Teen Talent Competition and for several choral contests throughout the St. Louis region. Mrs. Broyles has presented choral workshops and served as guest conductor/clinician for numerous districts and festivals in Missouri, Tennessee, Nebraska, and Wisconsin.
Lastly, Mrs. Broyles was named 2010 Teacher of the Year at Mason Ridge Elementary and is currently a Vocal Music teacher at Parkway West Middle School.
Mrs. Burnworth holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree with honors from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. and a law degree from Saint Louis University. After working as an attorney, she found she wanted to return to music education. She served as the PK - 8 music teacher for 17 years at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic School in Belleville, Illinois. Mrs. Burnworth taught music reading for Choristers and Concert Choir for ten years and served on the Choirs’ Board of Directors for 8 years. In 2017, she was awarded an Artist-Teacher Diploma from the CME Institute for Choral Teacher Education. This year, Mrs. Burnworth celebrates her 15th season as Director of Music Makers.
Mrs. Burnworth holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree with honors from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. and a law degree from Saint Louis University. After working as an attorney, she found she wanted to return to music education. She served as the PK - 8 music teacher for 17 years at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic School in Belleville, Illinois. Mrs. Burnworth taught music reading for Choristers and Concert Choir for ten years and served on the Choirs’ Board of Directors for 8 years. In 2017, she was awarded an Artist-Teacher Diploma from the CME Institute for Choral Teacher Education. This year, Mrs. Burnworth celebrates her 15th season as Director of Music Makers.
Whitney Cairns is marking her twelfth season as Director of the Chorale ensemble. Active as a guest conductor and clinician, Mrs. Cairns appears with the University of Missouri-St. Louis’ Acappellooza Festival; has guest conducted the Kirkwood Children’s Chorale, the Fort Zumwalt Middle School Choral Festival, and the Metro 8 Elementary Honors Choir, and directs the Children’s Choir at Central Presbyterian Church. In 2019, Mrs. Cairns gave multiple presentations at the Missouri Music Educators’ Association State Conference. She currently works as a middle school vocal music teacher in the Parkway School District and has served as Lecturer of Ear Training and Aural Skills at the University of Missouri-St. Louis since 2011. Mrs. Cairns holds a Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting from the Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester. Her Bachelor of Science degree in K-12 Music Education is from Pennsylvania State University. In 2017, she was awarded an Artist-Teacher Diploma from the CME Institute for Choral Teacher Education.
Whitney Cairns is marking her twelfth season as Director of the Chorale ensemble. Active as a guest conductor and clinician, Mrs. Cairns appears with the University of Missouri-St. Louis’ Acappellooza Festival; has guest conducted the Kirkwood Children’s Chorale, the Fort Zumwalt Middle School Choral Festival, and the Metro 8 Elementary Honors Choir, and directs the Children’s Choir at Central Presbyterian Church. In 2019, Mrs. Cairns gave multiple presentations at the Missouri Music Educators’ Association State Conference. She currently works as a middle school vocal music teacher in the Parkway School District and has served as Lecturer of Ear Training and Aural Skills at the University of Missouri-St. Louis since 2011. Mrs. Cairns holds a Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting from the Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester. Her Bachelor of Science degree in K-12 Music Education is from Pennsylvania State University. In 2017, she was awarded an Artist-Teacher Diploma from the CME Institute for Choral Teacher Education.
Dr. Alicia Canterbury Vorel serves as Assistant Professor in Music Education in the Department of Music at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville where she teaches undergraduate and graduate music education majors and conducts the SIUE Treble Choir. She earned the Bachelor in Music Education at Mercer University, the MM degree in Music Education from Texas Tech University, and the PhD from the University of Mississippi. Dr. Vorel is an experienced educator focusing primarily on general music and choirs in a variety of settings from early childhood to adult. She has presented at numerous state, regional, and national conferences on topics related to treble choir identity, assessment, and repertoire. She is a sought-after conductor for honor choirs in the South and Midwest. She is the recipient of the Steven Demorest Award in Research given by the American Choral Directors Association and her publications can be found in journals such as the Journal of Historical Research in Music Education, International Journal of Music Education, and Choral Journal.
Dr. Alicia Canterbury Vorel serves as Assistant Professor in Music Education in the Department of Music at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville where she teaches undergraduate and graduate music education majors and conducts the SIUE Treble Choir. She earned the Bachelor in Music Education at Mercer University, the MM degree in Music Education from Texas Tech University, and the PhD from the University of Mississippi. Dr. Vorel is an experienced educator focusing primarily on general music and choirs in a variety of settings from early childhood to adult. She has presented at numerous state, regional, and national conferences on topics related to treble choir identity, assessment, and repertoire. She is a sought-after conductor for honor choirs in the South and Midwest. She is the recipient of the Steven Demorest Award in Research given by the American Choral Directors Association and her publications can be found in journals such as the Journal of Historical Research in Music Education, International Journal of Music Education, and Choral Journal.
Dr. John McDonald is the Director of Vocal Studies and Director of Choir at Washington University in St. Louis. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Conducting from the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music and Dance, and a Master of Music degree in conducting from East Carolina University and a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Middle Tennessee State University. John maintains a career as a professional ensemble singer with the Church of St. Michael and St. George in Clayton and the Missouri Choral Artists. Dr. McDonald has been selected as one of six conductors to represent the United States in the 2023 American Choral Directors Association International Conductors Exchange Program with Germany. He joined the SLCC artistic staff in 2019!
Dr. John McDonald is the Director of Vocal Studies and Director of Choir at Washington University in St. Louis. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Conducting from the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music and Dance, and a Master of Music degree in conducting from East Carolina University and a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Middle Tennessee State University. John maintains a career as a professional ensemble singer with the Church of St. Michael and St. George in Clayton and the Missouri Choral Artists. Dr. McDonald has been selected as one of six conductors to represent the United States in the 2023 American Choral Directors Association International Conductors Exchange Program with Germany. He joined the SLCC artistic staff in 2019!
Dr. Alyson Moore is a scholar, choral educator, and a lyric soprano. Earning her doctorate in vocal performance from Shenandoah Conservatory in 2010, Alyson was awarded the Dean’s Graduate Scholar Award for excellence in scholarship for her dissertation “Mad Women in Opera: An Investigation of Madness and Selected Mad Scenes for Soprano.”
In 2009, Alyson taught master classes and performed the Brahms’ Requiem with the Ho Chi Minh Symphony Orchestra in Vietnam. In 2010, she traveled to Buenos Aires to research and perform the music of Argentine composer Carlos Guastavino. While serving as the Director of Arts at The Bryn Mawr School in Baltimore, Maryland, her choirs performed at Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, The U.S. State Department, and The Blair House. Alyson’s choirs performed at the International Kodály Symposium in Budapest and Kecskemét, Hungary in 2013.
In addition to her work as a regional choral clinician and adjudicator, Alyson is the founder of the American Kodály Children’s Chorus in Baltimore, where she served as Artistic Director for seven years. Alyson is both a musical theater performer and director and is the director of choirs at University High School in Fresno. She is on the voice faculty at Fresno Pacific University and serves as Artistic Director for the Fresno Choral Artists.
Dr. Alyson Moore is a scholar, choral educator, and a lyric soprano. Earning her doctorate in vocal performance from Shenandoah Conservatory in 2010, Alyson was awarded the Dean’s Graduate Scholar Award for excellence in scholarship for her dissertation “Mad Women in Opera: An Investigation of Madness and Selected Mad Scenes for Soprano.”
In 2009, Alyson taught master classes and performed the Brahms’ Requiem with the Ho Chi Minh Symphony Orchestra in Vietnam. In 2010, she traveled to Buenos Aires to research and perform the music of Argentine composer Carlos Guastavino. While serving as the Director of Arts at The Bryn Mawr School in Baltimore, Maryland, her choirs performed at Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, The U.S. State Department, and The Blair House. Alyson’s choirs performed at the International Kodály Symposium in Budapest and Kecskemét, Hungary in 2013.
In addition to her work as a regional choral clinician and adjudicator, Alyson is the founder of the American Kodály Children’s Chorus in Baltimore, where she served as Artistic Director for seven years. Alyson is both a musical theater performer and director and is the director of choirs at University High School in Fresno. She is on the voice faculty at Fresno Pacific University and serves as Artistic Director for the Fresno Choral Artists.
Mrs. Romano has grown up with the Choirs. She started singing as a Music Maker, graduated from the Choirs after 12 years, and served as an ensemble assistance during her four years as an undergraduate music major. Mrs. Romano is now in her 6th season conducting the Children's Choir 1A ensemble. She graduated summa cum laude from Webster University with a Bachelor of Music Education degree and holds a Master of Music Education degree from Central Methodist University. Mrs. Romano teaches music at Seckman Elementary School and is the children’s choir director at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Webster Groves. She completed Level III Certification from the CME Institute for Choral Teacher Education in 2018.
Mrs. Romano has grown up with the Choirs. She started singing as a Music Maker, graduated from the Choirs after 12 years, and served as an ensemble assistance during her four years as an undergraduate music major. Mrs. Romano is now in her 6th season conducting the Children's Choir 1A ensemble. She graduated summa cum laude from Webster University with a Bachelor of Music Education degree and holds a Master of Music Education degree from Central Methodist University. Mrs. Romano teaches music at Seckman Elementary School and is the children’s choir director at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Webster Groves. She completed Level III Certification from the CME Institute for Choral Teacher Education in 2018.
Mrs. Solverud served as a vocal music and choral director for middle school and high school in Colorado and Wyoming for 16 years. She is now the Director of Choral Activities at Francis Howell Central High School. Mrs. Solverud has been a clinician and adjudicator for state solo and ensemble festivals and served in state leadership roles for the Wyoming Music Educators Association. She holds her Master of Music Education degree with an emphasis in Choral Conducting and a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Colorado State University. Mrs. Solverud has been conducting church choirs and handbell ensembles for 17 years and has played flute with various civic ensembles in Colorado and Wyoming. It is a joy to welcome Mrs. Solverud for her first season as the Director of Choristers.
Mrs. Solverud served as a vocal music and choral director for middle school and high school in Colorado and Wyoming for 16 years. She is now the Director of Choral Activities at Francis Howell Central High School. Mrs. Solverud has been a clinician and adjudicator for state solo and ensemble festivals and served in state leadership roles for the Wyoming Music Educators Association. She holds her Master of Music Education degree with an emphasis in Choral Conducting and a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Colorado State University. Mrs. Solverud has been conducting church choirs and handbell ensembles for 17 years and has played flute with various civic ensembles in Colorado and Wyoming. It is a joy to welcome Mrs. Solverud for her first season as the Director of Choristers.
Anna is a student at Webster University studying vocal performance. She loves to work with kids of all ages and has worked with a variety of children’s ensembles over the past three years. In her free time, Anna enjoys singing, sculpting, and getting ice cream with her friends.
Anna is a student at Webster University studying vocal performance. She loves to work with kids of all ages and has worked with a variety of children’s ensembles over the past three years. In her free time, Anna enjoys singing, sculpting, and getting ice cream with her friends.
Mr. Herron is in his eighteenth year as Choir Director at Gateway Middle School where he teaches choir, coding and video production and sponsors esports. Mr. Herron earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education at Illinois Wesleyan University and a Master’s degree in Music Education at the University of Missouri, St. Louis. He was honored in “Who’s Who Among American Teachers” in 2005 & 2006. He serves as President & Treasurer for the non-profit organization Scottish Partnership for Arts and Education. He is a docent for Opera Theatre of St. Louis. He has served as ensemble assistant, music reading instructor, and accompanist with The St. Louis Children’s Choirs.
Mr. Herron is in his eighteenth year as Choir Director at Gateway Middle School where he teaches choir, coding and video production and sponsors esports. Mr. Herron earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education at Illinois Wesleyan University and a Master’s degree in Music Education at the University of Missouri, St. Louis. He was honored in “Who’s Who Among American Teachers” in 2005 & 2006. He serves as President & Treasurer for the non-profit organization Scottish Partnership for Arts and Education. He is a docent for Opera Theatre of St. Louis. He has served as ensemble assistant, music reading instructor, and accompanist with The St. Louis Children’s Choirs.
Sarah is an SLCC alumna and native St. Louisan who is grateful to give back to this young artist community. As an ongoing, proactive musician and singer, Sarah believes music and performing arts truly shape individuals for the better. After an undergraduate career at University of Florida in which she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics, she missed the Midwest's four seasons and the wonderful, warm community St. Louis, Missouri, can bring. She is currently pursuing her Master's of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Fontbonne University. Sarah is a conversation enthusiast for movies, food, travels, good vibes, and of course, music. Many thanks to her loving family and dog, the ubiquitous presence of coffee, and the supportive circle of friends, coworkers, and peers who keep her going.
Sarah is an SLCC alumna and native St. Louisan who is grateful to give back to this young artist community. As an ongoing, proactive musician and singer, Sarah believes music and performing arts truly shape individuals for the better. After an undergraduate career at University of Florida in which she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics, she missed the Midwest's four seasons and the wonderful, warm community St. Louis, Missouri, can bring. She is currently pursuing her Master's of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Fontbonne University. Sarah is a conversation enthusiast for movies, food, travels, good vibes, and of course, music. Many thanks to her loving family and dog, the ubiquitous presence of coffee, and the supportive circle of friends, coworkers, and peers who keep her going.
Josie Kopff is currently a junior at Washington University in St. Louis pursuing a Music major and Math minor. She plans to pursue a masters degree in Music Education and eventually become a choir teacher. Josie was a member of the St Louis Children's Choirs for 12 years, so she is so glad to continue working with the organization in a different role.
Josie Kopff is currently a junior at Washington University in St. Louis pursuing a Music major and Math minor. She plans to pursue a masters degree in Music Education and eventually become a choir teacher. Josie was a member of the St Louis Children's Choirs for 12 years, so she is so glad to continue working with the organization in a different role.
Bio Coming Soon!
Mr. Jamar Pugh is a recent graduate of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and earned the Bachelor's in Music Education in 2023. During his time at SIUE, he had the opportunity to study and work with various peers, professors, and in-service teachers to hone his performance skills and teaching skills. Having those opportunities and professional connections allowed him to see how different music disciplines connect. He received numerous scholarships and awards at SIUE based on his excellent performance. Jamar is currently serving as a private instructor for local students represented by six areas schools and is continuing his work with the Granite City High School Marching Warriors.
Mr. Jamar Pugh is a recent graduate of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and earned the Bachelor's in Music Education in 2023. During his time at SIUE, he had the opportunity to study and work with various peers, professors, and in-service teachers to hone his performance skills and teaching skills. Having those opportunities and professional connections allowed him to see how different music disciplines connect. He received numerous scholarships and awards at SIUE based on his excellent performance. Jamar is currently serving as a private instructor for local students represented by six areas schools and is continuing his work with the Granite City High School Marching Warriors.
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Emma Wells is a 2023 graduate of the Children's Choirs. She was a member of the Choristers ensemble from 2019 - 2022 and a Concert Choir member in 2023. She is now the Ensemble Assistant for the Music Makers. She currently attends Washington University and plans on majoring in psychology with a minor in music. She is thrilled to continue both being a member of the SLCC community and their mission to bring music into both children’s and audience’s lives.
Emma Wells is a 2023 graduate of the Children's Choirs. She was a member of the Choristers ensemble from 2019 - 2022 and a Concert Choir member in 2023. She is now the Ensemble Assistant for the Music Makers. She currently attends Washington University and plans on majoring in psychology with a minor in music. She is thrilled to continue both being a member of the SLCC community and their mission to bring music into both children’s and audience’s lives.
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Ms. Derham joined the artistic staff of the Choirs in 2000 and has performed with Concert Choir all over the world, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the White House. She toured with Concert Choir to Ireland in 2023. Ms. Derham served as a staff accompanist for the UMSL Music Department, St. Louis Conservatory of Music, and Opera Theatre of St. Louis. She has played for the St. Louis Symphony Chorus, the Bach Society, in various concert series, for professional soloists, and serves as the organist for Our Savior Lutheran Church in St. Charles. Ms. Derham graduated magna cum laude from Lindenwood University and studied under Ruth Slenczynska at Southern Illinois University where she graduated with highest honors with a Master of Music degree in Piano Performance.
Ms. Derham joined the artistic staff of the Choirs in 2000 and has performed with Concert Choir all over the world, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the White House. She toured with Concert Choir to Ireland in 2023. Ms. Derham served as a staff accompanist for the UMSL Music Department, St. Louis Conservatory of Music, and Opera Theatre of St. Louis. She has played for the St. Louis Symphony Chorus, the Bach Society, in various concert series, for professional soloists, and serves as the organist for Our Savior Lutheran Church in St. Charles. Ms. Derham graduated magna cum laude from Lindenwood University and studied under Ruth Slenczynska at Southern Illinois University where she graduated with highest honors with a Master of Music degree in Piano Performance.
Bio Coming Soon!
Sarah Gallaher is a graduate of the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities where she completed a Masters of Music degree in Collaborative Piano and Coaching. A St. Louis native and Cor Jesu Academy graduate, she joined the St. Louis Children’s Choirs artistic staff in 2016. Ms. Gallaher is on faculty at St. Charles Community College and the Community Music School at Webster University, teaching class piano proficiency and private lessons. In addition, she leads youth music ministry at Our Lady of Providence Church and works as a freelance pianist in the St. Louis metro area.
Sarah Gallaher is a graduate of the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities where she completed a Masters of Music degree in Collaborative Piano and Coaching. A St. Louis native and Cor Jesu Academy graduate, she joined the St. Louis Children’s Choirs artistic staff in 2016. Ms. Gallaher is on faculty at St. Charles Community College and the Community Music School at Webster University, teaching class piano proficiency and private lessons. In addition, she leads youth music ministry at Our Lady of Providence Church and works as a freelance pianist in the St. Louis metro area.
Dr. Jin Ah Yoo Knapp grew up in Seoul, South Korea, where she studied at the prestigious Seoul Arts High School, then completed studies in Sacred Music and Organ Performance at Yonsei University. She received the doctorate in organ from the University of Iowa, studying under Delbert Disselhorst. Dr. Knapp served as professor of Organ, Organ Literature, and the History of Sacred Music at Keimyung University and later at Yonsei University, Seoul. As a competitor, she has won honors at the Albert Schweitzer Organ Competition, the John D. Rodland Church Music Competition, and the St. Moritz (Switzerland) International Organ Competition. She has performed widely in America and South Korea, and performs regularly in Germany. She currently serves as Director of Music at Timothy Lutheran Church in St. Louis, MO.
Dr. Jin Ah Yoo Knapp grew up in Seoul, South Korea, where she studied at the prestigious Seoul Arts High School, then completed studies in Sacred Music and Organ Performance at Yonsei University. She received the doctorate in organ from the University of Iowa, studying under Delbert Disselhorst. Dr. Knapp served as professor of Organ, Organ Literature, and the History of Sacred Music at Keimyung University and later at Yonsei University, Seoul. As a competitor, she has won honors at the Albert Schweitzer Organ Competition, the John D. Rodland Church Music Competition, and the St. Moritz (Switzerland) International Organ Competition. She has performed widely in America and South Korea, and performs regularly in Germany. She currently serves as Director of Music at Timothy Lutheran Church in St. Louis, MO.
Dr. Alyson Moore is a scholar, choral educator, and a lyric soprano. Earning her doctorate in vocal performance from Shenandoah Conservatory in 2010, Alyson was awarded the Dean’s Graduate Scholar Award for excellence in scholarship for her dissertation “Mad Women in Opera: An Investigation of Madness and Selected Mad Scenes for Soprano.”
In 2009, Alyson taught master classes and performed the Brahms’ Requiem with the Ho Chi Minh Symphony Orchestra in Vietnam. In 2010, she traveled to Buenos Aires to research and perform the music of Argentine composer Carlos Guastavino. While serving as the Director of Arts at The Bryn Mawr School in Baltimore, Maryland, her choirs performed at Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, The U.S. State Department, and The Blair House. Alyson’s choirs performed at the International Kodály Symposium in Budapest and Kecskemét, Hungary in 2013.
In addition to her work as a regional choral clinician and adjudicator, Alyson is the founder of the American Kodály Children’s Chorus in Baltimore, where she served as Artistic Director for seven years. Alyson is both a musical theater performer and director and is the director of choirs at University High School in Fresno. Previously, she served on the voice faculty at Fresno Pacific University and as Artistic Director for the Fresno Choral Artists.
Dr. Alyson Moore is a scholar, choral educator, and a lyric soprano. Earning her doctorate in vocal performance from Shenandoah Conservatory in 2010, Alyson was awarded the Dean’s Graduate Scholar Award for excellence in scholarship for her dissertation “Mad Women in Opera: An Investigation of Madness and Selected Mad Scenes for Soprano.”
In 2009, Alyson taught master classes and performed the Brahms’ Requiem with the Ho Chi Minh Symphony Orchestra in Vietnam. In 2010, she traveled to Buenos Aires to research and perform the music of Argentine composer Carlos Guastavino. While serving as the Director of Arts at The Bryn Mawr School in Baltimore, Maryland, her choirs performed at Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, The U.S. State Department, and The Blair House. Alyson’s choirs performed at the International Kodály Symposium in Budapest and Kecskemét, Hungary in 2013.
In addition to her work as a regional choral clinician and adjudicator, Alyson is the founder of the American Kodály Children’s Chorus in Baltimore, where she served as Artistic Director for seven years. Alyson is both a musical theater performer and director and is the director of choirs at University High School in Fresno. Previously, she served on the voice faculty at Fresno Pacific University and as Artistic Director for the Fresno Choral Artists.
Ben Nordstrom is an arts advocate, creative fundraiser, award-winning theatre artist, and a lover of St. Louis. Ben joined the Choirs in April 2021 as Development Director and is honored to serve SLCC’s singers, families, staff, donors, and board members as their new Executive Director.
Since 2019, Ben has raised over $2MM for non-profit organizations in the arts and social services sectors. During the 2021-2022 season, Ben’s first full season with SLCC, the Choirs reached their highest total ever raised from individual donors. Last season, this total was surpassed once again with the success of the 45th Anniversary Gala “Magical Moments.”
Prior to his transition to arts administration, Ben enjoyed a 20-year career as a professional actor and singer in St. Louis and New York City, appearing in plays and musicals Off-Broadway and at regional theatres across the country. His many St. Louis appearances include shows at the Muny, the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, Stages St. Louis, and Shakespeare Festival St. Louis. He is a recipient of a St. Louis Theatre Circle Award and two Kevin Kline Awards for Best Actor in a Musical and was named Most Versatile Actor in St. Louis by the Post-Dispatch.
Ben was a member of the Leadership St. Louis cohort in 2021-2022. He is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Actors Equity Association, and SAG-AFTRA and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting from the Sargent Conservatory at Webster University.
Ben Nordstrom is an arts advocate, creative fundraiser, award-winning theatre artist, and a lover of St. Louis. Ben joined the Choirs in April 2021 as Development Director and is honored to serve SLCC’s singers, families, staff, donors, and board members as their new Executive Director.
Since 2019, Ben has raised over $2MM for non-profit organizations in the arts and social services sectors. During the 2021-2022 season, Ben’s first full season with SLCC, the Choirs reached their highest total ever raised from individual donors. Last season, this total was surpassed once again with the success of the 45th Anniversary Gala “Magical Moments.”
Prior to his transition to arts administration, Ben enjoyed a 20-year career as a professional actor and singer in St. Louis and New York City, appearing in plays and musicals Off-Broadway and at regional theatres across the country. His many St. Louis appearances include shows at the Muny, the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, Stages St. Louis, and Shakespeare Festival St. Louis. He is a recipient of a St. Louis Theatre Circle Award and two Kevin Kline Awards for Best Actor in a Musical and was named Most Versatile Actor in St. Louis by the Post-Dispatch.
Ben was a member of the Leadership St. Louis cohort in 2021-2022. He is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Actors Equity Association, and SAG-AFTRA and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting from the Sargent Conservatory at Webster University.
Olivia Leek serves as Choir Manager for SLCC, and is very familiar with the little white house on Ballas. She participated as a student of the Choirs for 7 years, and after graduating in 2016, proceeded to serve as an ensemble assistant for 5 years. Before stepping into her current role here, she worked at Missouri Baptist University for 2 years as Fine Arts Events Manager, Administrative Assistant for the Honors Program, and Accompanist.
She is an avid lover of the arts, beginning her participation in music and theatre at the age of 5. Since then, she has been involved in numerous choir concerts; piano recitals and competitions; vocal recitals; and musicals and plays. She also received her Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance at Missouri Baptist University, in the spring of 2020.
Olivia Leek serves as Choir Manager for SLCC, and is very familiar with the little white house on Ballas. She participated as a student of the Choirs for 7 years, and after graduating in 2016, proceeded to serve as an ensemble assistant for 5 years. Before stepping into her current role here, she worked at Missouri Baptist University for 2 years as Fine Arts Events Manager, Administrative Assistant for the Honors Program, and Accompanist.
She is an avid lover of the arts, beginning her participation in music and theatre at the age of 5. Since then, she has been involved in numerous choir concerts; piano recitals and competitions; vocal recitals; and musicals and plays. She also received her Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance at Missouri Baptist University, in the spring of 2020.
Bio coming soon!
Bio coming soon!
Bio coming soon!
Sarah is an SLCC alumna and native St. Louisan who is grateful to give back to this young artist community. As an ongoing, proactive musician and singer, Sarah believes music and performing arts truly shape individuals for the better. After an undergraduate career at University of Florida in which she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics, she missed the Midwest's four seasons and the wonderful, warm community St. Louis, Missouri, can bring. She is currently pursuing her Master's of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Fontbonne University. Sarah is a conversation enthusiast for movies, food, travels, good vibes, and of course, music. Many thanks to her loving family and dog, the ubiquitous presence of coffee, and the supportive circle of friends, coworkers, and peers who keep her going.
Sarah is an SLCC alumna and native St. Louisan who is grateful to give back to this young artist community. As an ongoing, proactive musician and singer, Sarah believes music and performing arts truly shape individuals for the better. After an undergraduate career at University of Florida in which she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics, she missed the Midwest's four seasons and the wonderful, warm community St. Louis, Missouri, can bring. She is currently pursuing her Master's of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Fontbonne University. Sarah is a conversation enthusiast for movies, food, travels, good vibes, and of course, music. Many thanks to her loving family and dog, the ubiquitous presence of coffee, and the supportive circle of friends, coworkers, and peers who keep her going.
Olivia Leek serves as Choir Manager for SLCC, and is very familiar with the little white house on Ballas. She participated as a student of the Choirs for 7 years, and after graduating in 2016, proceeded to serve as an ensemble assistant for 5 years. Before stepping into her current role here, she worked at Missouri Baptist University for 2 years as Fine Arts Events Manager, Administrative Assistant for the Honors Program, and Accompanist.
She is an avid lover of the arts, beginning her participation in music and theatre at the age of 5. Since then, she has been involved in numerous choir concerts; piano recitals and competitions; vocal recitals; and musicals and plays. She also received her Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance at Missouri Baptist University, in the spring of 2020.
Olivia Leek serves as Choir Manager for SLCC, and is very familiar with the little white house on Ballas. She participated as a student of the Choirs for 7 years, and after graduating in 2016, proceeded to serve as an ensemble assistant for 5 years. Before stepping into her current role here, she worked at Missouri Baptist University for 2 years as Fine Arts Events Manager, Administrative Assistant for the Honors Program, and Accompanist.
She is an avid lover of the arts, beginning her participation in music and theatre at the age of 5. Since then, she has been involved in numerous choir concerts; piano recitals and competitions; vocal recitals; and musicals and plays. She also received her Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance at Missouri Baptist University, in the spring of 2020.
Lauren Romano has been a music educator since 2015. She currently serves as the choral director at Antonia Middle School in the Fox C-6 School District and the children's choir director at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Webster Groves. She previously directed Children's Choir 1A at the St. Louis Children's Choirs for six seasons. As a teaching artist for SLCC, she has prepared the children's chorus for Opera Theatre of Saint Louis's productions of Tosca in 2023 and La Bohème in 2024. Romano holds a Bachelor’s degree from Webster University and a Master’s degree from Central Methodist University in music education. She completed her certification through the CME Institute for Choral Teacher Education in 2019.
Lauren Romano has been a music educator since 2015. She currently serves as the choral director at Antonia Middle School in the Fox C-6 School District and the children's choir director at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Webster Groves. She previously directed Children's Choir 1A at the St. Louis Children's Choirs for six seasons. As a teaching artist for SLCC, she has prepared the children's chorus for Opera Theatre of Saint Louis's productions of Tosca in 2023 and La Bohème in 2024. Romano holds a Bachelor’s degree from Webster University and a Master’s degree from Central Methodist University in music education. She completed her certification through the CME Institute for Choral Teacher Education in 2019.
Ms. Gado has studied music performance throughout her life as a vocalist, flutist and pianist, including 2.5 years at Kapellsbergs Musikskola in Härnӧsand, Sweden and holds a Bachelors of Arts (Inter-Departmental Humanities) from Union College in Schenectady, NY, and a Masters of Science in Elementary Education from the College of St. Rose in Albany, NY. She taught middle school Vocal and General music in the Webster Groves School District for 19 years and has served as a clinician and guest conductor for choir festivals and church groups. Since 2022, she has enjoyed acting as a consultant, Music Director for musical theater, and developing music literacy tools and strategies for music educators. She continues to serve as a Principal Singer with the Bach Society of St. Louis, which she joined in 2002. Professionally, Carin is a member of the Missouri Choral Directors Association and the Missouri Music Educators Association.
Ms. Gado has studied music performance throughout her life as a vocalist, flutist and pianist, including 2.5 years at Kapellsbergs Musikskola in Härnӧsand, Sweden and holds a Bachelors of Arts (Inter-Departmental Humanities) from Union College in Schenectady, NY, and a Masters of Science in Elementary Education from the College of St. Rose in Albany, NY. She taught middle school Vocal and General music in the Webster Groves School District for 19 years and has served as a clinician and guest conductor for choir festivals and church groups. Since 2022, she has enjoyed acting as a consultant, Music Director for musical theater, and developing music literacy tools and strategies for music educators. She continues to serve as a Principal Singer with the Bach Society of St. Louis, which she joined in 2002. Professionally, Carin is a member of the Missouri Choral Directors Association and the Missouri Music Educators Association.
Olivia Leek serves as Choir Manager for SLCC, and is very familiar with the little white house on Ballas. She participated as a student of the Choirs for 7 years, and after graduating in 2016, proceeded to serve as an ensemble assistant for 5 years. Before stepping into her current role here, she worked at Missouri Baptist University for 2 years as Fine Arts Events Manager, Administrative Assistant for the Honors Program, and Accompanist.
She is an avid lover of the arts, beginning her participation in music and theatre at the age of 5. Since then, she has been involved in numerous choir concerts; piano recitals and competitions; vocal recitals; and musicals and plays. She also received her Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance at Missouri Baptist University, in the spring of 2020.
Olivia Leek serves as Choir Manager for SLCC, and is very familiar with the little white house on Ballas. She participated as a student of the Choirs for 7 years, and after graduating in 2016, proceeded to serve as an ensemble assistant for 5 years. Before stepping into her current role here, she worked at Missouri Baptist University for 2 years as Fine Arts Events Manager, Administrative Assistant for the Honors Program, and Accompanist.
She is an avid lover of the arts, beginning her participation in music and theatre at the age of 5. Since then, she has been involved in numerous choir concerts; piano recitals and competitions; vocal recitals; and musicals and plays. She also received her Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance at Missouri Baptist University, in the spring of 2020.