PIEDMONT CHAMBER SINGERS ANNOUNCE DR. DAVID SCHILDKRET AS INTERIM DIRECTOR

June 30, 2009

The Piedmont Chamber Singers have named Dr. David Schildkret as Interim Artistic Director for the 2009-2010 season.

David Schildkret is no stranger to Winston-Salem audiences. He served as Dean of the Salem College School of Music from 1995-2002. Currently on sab-batical from Arizona State University, he will serve as a visiting scholar at Salem. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he will be assisting the dean and president in shaping the future of Salem music.

Dr. Schildkret brings a wealth of experience and honors. He is a published author and is in demand as a guest conductor throughout the United States. Most recently, he was named to the Fulbright specialist program by the US Department of State, allowing him to serve as an expert for overseas projects.

In expressing his excitement in returning to PCS, Dr. Schildkret says, “Some of my most cherished musical memories and proudest musical moments involve the Piedmont Chamber Singers. I love the group, I love the people in it, I love what they stand for and I love both what they have achieved and what they will achieve.”

A challenging and adventurous season awaits. Schildkret will lead the singers through the opening concert of Handel’s Coronation Anthems and Haydn’s Lord Nelson Mass. For the Festival of Carols, in addition to familiar and beloved Christmas music, he has chosen the Charpentier Midnight Mass, which is based on familiar French carols. February will celebrate Black History Month and “A Celebration of African American Voices” with traditional spirituals and other works by familiar African American composers. The final concert will feature a kaleidoscope of “Americana.”

Schildkret says, “Music is a joyful occupation. When people are enjoying their work and enjoying being together, it’s infectious. We want to spread that pleasure, like a contagion, among ourselves and to our supporters and audience!”

Auditions Scheduled for Season 32