Washington’s Choral Arts Society Welcomes New Artistic Director

Conductor Marie Bucoy-Calavan will assume the role as of the 2024/25 concert season

The Choral Arts Society of Washington was founded in 1965 by Norman Scribner to advance choral music through collaborating with myriad musicians, composers, and ensembles. 

Following an extensive international search, conductor and clinician Marie Bucoy-Calavan has been selected to join Choral Arts as its artistic director from September 1, 2024. 

Bucoy-Calavan has served as the assistant conductor to Robert Porco for the May Festival Chorus of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, and performed with symphonic choruses alongside John Williams, Eric Whitacre, and Keith Lockhart. 

Her concert engagements have spanned venues such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Hollywood Bowl, Carnegie Hall, Severance Hall, Cincinnati Music Hall, and Liszt Academy.

Most recently the Director of Choral Studies at the University of Akron, Bucoy-Calavan currently serves as board secretary for Chorus America. 

Her other roles include executive board secretary for the National Collegiate Choral Organization, and chair of the University Repertoire and Resources for the Ohio Choral Directors Association.

A choral conducting graduate of California State University, she has served as Graduate Assistant Conductor of both the University Singers and Chamber Choir; she also completed her doctorate at the University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music, where she directed its Men’s Chorus and mentored undergraduate students.

She previously performed with Choral Arts in December 2023 for a Christmas concert, which garnered positive feedback from both the chorus and audience members. 

Bucoy-Calavan’s first performance in her new role will take place October 5, 2024. 

“We’re overjoyed to have Marie join us as we embark upon our 60th season,” stated board chair of Choral Arts, Matt Garber in the press release. “Her energy, skill, and visionary presence will ensure we continue to be at the forefront of choral music for many years to come. We’re excited to see how Marie’s vision comes to life and impacts our community both inside and outside the concert hall.” 

“Our goals align beautifully,” Bucoy-Calavan added. “Choral Arts is ready for a fresh perspective and I believe I can deliver exactly what they need artistically. My experience, combined with the deep talent of Choral Arts’ singers, will captivate and inspire audiences.”