8 hours ago
Spoleto Festival USA names new music director of the festival chorus
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)—Spoleto Festival USA has appointed a new music director for the festival chorus.
Starting in 2026, Dr. Amanda Quist will bring her knowledge to the position of directing the chorus. Dr. Quist is an associate professor and director of choral activities at Western Michigan University.
She possesses a Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting and a Doctoral Cognate in Voice Pedagogy and Science from the University of North Texas.
'We are incredibly excited to welcome Amanda Quist to the Spoleto Festival USA family,' said Spoleto Festival USA General Director and CEO Dr. Mena Mark Hanna. 'Her profound musicality, innovative programming ideas, and commitment to nurturing the next generation of professional singers align perfectly with the Festival's artistic mission. Amanda will build upon Joe Miller's legacy at Spoleto and continue to lead the Festival Chorus to new heights of artistry and excellence.'
Dr. Quist was selected for the role after the departure of Dr. Joe Miller, who led in the role for 19 years.
'I am honored and incredibly excited to join Spoleto Festival USA,' said Dr. Quist. 'I look forward to leading this incredible professional choir program and building on the tremendous legacy of world-class choral music at Spoleto. My goal is to cultivate the Festival Chorus as a vital platform for emerging professional singers, allowing them to hone their craft at the highest level across a great diversity of musical opportunities. I envision a chorus that not only delivers breathtaking performances but also inspires a broad audience, making the Festival known to everyone across America and the world.'
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