South Coast Chorale Welcomes New Artistic Director Lynn Atkins

LONG BEACH, Calif. - Aug. 15, 2024 - PRLog -- The South Coast Chorale (SCC) is pleased to welcome Dr. Lynn Atkins as its newest Artistic Director. Atkins, who brings 20 years of experience as an educator, conductor and professional vocalist, is already busy planning the Chorale's 35^th anniversary season. New Chorale members interested in performing with the group are encouraged to reserve a time slot for the next audition event on Monday, August 19 from 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm at the First Congregational Church of Long Beach at 241 Cedar Avenue.

"We will have a focus on where we have come from, where we are at now and where we are going, not just for the Chorale but also for gay rights and moving into an era with an uncertain future with the politics today," said Lynn. "We want to remind the LGBTQ community that we're here and vital and want you to be with us as a singer, volunteer or audience member so that your rights are validated and made strong."

Besides his new role with the Chorale, Lynn will continue serving as Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at California State University, Dominguez Hills, in Carson, CA as well as the Artistic Director of the L.A. Bronze Handbell Ensemble in Los Angeles.

With the somewhat unique mix of voices making up the Chorale contrasted with many other LGBTQ choruses across the country, Lynn is looking forward to the challenges ahead. "I will be looking to do some commissions while we revisit some other pieces that are tried and true and about being good neighbors and taking care of each other," he said. "It's about performing that speaks to the music while also having a great time, and could include cabarets and diving into jazz and musical theater and pop."

Dr. Atkins is replacing outgoing Artistic Director Chris Smith, who led the Chorale for the previous 12 years and gradually built the group from fewer than 20 to over 50 singers. Following his final June performance leading the Chorale in "Disney PRIDE in Concert," Chris is stepping down as he and his husband, Chorale Board Member Robert Casas Smith, who is currently taking a hiatus, have recently adopted a baby girl.

"As the Chorale enters its 35^th season, we are excited to begin our creative partnership with Dr. Atkins," said Tony Almero-Stokes, SCC's board president. "His depth of experience with choral education and community choirs are a tremendous benefit that will help the Chorale continue in our mission to entertain, educate, connect with and inspire our community."

Auditions for 35^th Season
https://southcoastchorale.org/event/season-35-auditions/
Monday, August 19, 2024 from 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm
First Congregational Church of Long Beach