The Hillsdale Arts Chorale Welcomes New Conductor James Holleman

The Hillsdale Arts Chorale welcomes Professor James Holleman as their new conductor. He will lead the group with rehearsals starting Monday, September 12, at the First Presbyterian Church in Hillsdale from 7-9 p.m.

“Having been a long-time admirer of the Arts Chorale, I am thrilled to be part of the organization,” Holleman said. “Already knowing many of the members of the ensemble, I am looking forward to working with everyone and getting to know new friends.”

Professor Holleman is twice a graduate of Michigan State University where he received a Bachelor of Music Degree in French Horn Performance (1986) and a Master of Music Degree in Orchestral Conducting (1989). After graduate school, he studied conducting at the Conductors’ Institute in Columbia, South Carolina (1989), the Oregon Bach Festival in Eugene, Oregon (1993, 1994), and at numerous workshops with The Conductors Guild and The League of American Orchestras.

Currently, Holleman serves as a Professor of Music, Choir, and Orchestra at Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Michigan. He served for 25 years as Music Department Chairman and Music Director of Orchestras and Choirs for the John E.N. & Dede Howard Department of Music at the College.

“It’s an honor to be selected to direct the Arts Chorale for the 50th anniversary of the ensemble,” Holleman added. “I look forward to doing my part to celebrate the legacy of Howard Rizner and all who have lifted their voices for artistic excellence in our community.”

Arts Chorale President Eric Leutheuser is honored to celebrate the Chorale’s golden anniversary with the support of the community and carrying on Rizner’s legacy with Holleman leading the way.

“Like many, I've watched with appreciation as James Holleman has led the music program at Hillsdale College to new heights,” said Leutheuser. “We are delighted that he is sharing his love of music, decades of experience, and deep ties to the community with the Arts Chorale. If you are a singer, we’d love to see you at rehearsal!"

The Chorale will perform a Christmas concert on Saturday, December 17, at 7.pm. at College Baptist Church in Hillsdale, and a spring concert on Sunday, April 30, at the Dawn Theater in Hillsdale. The time will be determined at a later date.

Contact the Chorale with questions at hillsdaleartschorale@gmail.com or you can learn more by visiting www.hillsdaleartschorale.com. 

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ABOUT THE HILLSDALE ARTS CHORALE: The Hillsdale Arts Chorale was established by  Howard J. Rizner in 1973 in Hillsdale, Michigan. Rizner understood the limitations imposed by  Hillsdale's size and remoteness but refused to let those conditions force a compromise of  musical quality. The key to the group's success then, and now, is maintaining high standards  of exceptional choral music. For nearly a half century, the Hillsdale community has enjoyed a remarkable choral group whose mission is presenting some of the most enduring works of  classical music and finest choral settings of beloved religious songs, folk melodies, and popular standards.