SAN DIEGO, Calif.- The San Diego Women’s Chorus (SDWC) has announced that they have hired Celeste Oram as their new assistant to the artistic director, following an extensive search and interview process. Oram will work directly with SDWC’s Artistic Director Kathleen Hansen, to provide musical support to the growing choral organization, assisting with rehearsing, conducting and concert production duties.
“We are so excited to welcome Celeste to our artistic team,” shared SDWC Board President Heather Robert. “She instantly clicked with our membership with her relaxed, confident conducting style, her clear musical direction and her warm, encouraging personality. She is going to be a great asset as we strive for continued musical excellence heading into our 30th anniversary season next year.”
Oram is a composer and musician hailing from New Zealand and based in San Diego since 2014. In addition to her new position with the San Diego Women’s Chorus, she is currently pursuing a PhD in Music Composition at UC San Diego, where she completed her Masters of Music earlier in 2016. She is a singing member of Pro Arte Voices and the La Jolla Symphony Chorus, where she also acts as production assistant. Previously, in New Zealand, she conducted and directed opera and musical theater productions with community and student groups. Her compositions have been performed by orchestras and ensembles in Europe, the United States, New Zealand and Australia. When she isn’t singing or composing, she is likely on a hike, in a ballet class or winding a radio coil.
“I am thrilled to be joining the SDWC sisterhood, an organization which immediately won me over with its joyful and meaningful repertoire, and its huge heart,” said Oram. “I look forward to the journey of sharing in, and contributing to, the chorus’ rich musicianship, community, experience, and diversity”
Oram will make her debut with the San Diego Women’s Chorus at its Everything She Touches concert Nov. 19 and 20. Tickets are now on sale here.
