Hillsdale Arts Chorale Welcomes New Director Mark Douglass

The Hillsdale Arts Chorale is pleased to announce their new director, Mark Douglass.

Dr. Mark Douglass is a Michigan-based conductor, composer, multi-instrumentalist, and educator whose career spans choral, orchestral, jazz, and contemporary music. He currently conducts the Royal Oak Symphony Orchestra, serves as Associate Professor at Goshen College, where he directs the orchestra and teaches music education and musicianship, and teaches music theory, musicology, music production, and metacognition at the University of Michigan-Dearborn.

Douglass is already a familiar face to the Arts Chorale, having previously served as a substitute conductor for longtime director Jim Holleman.

“I’m thrilled to work with the Chorale,” Douglass said. “When I first substituted for the group, I was immediately struck by the joy and commitment everyone brought to making music together. I love the range of ages, backgrounds, and musical experiences represented in the ensemble. It truly feels like a community.”

“The Arts Chorale Board is very excited to welcome our new conductor, Dr. Mark Douglass,” said Board Member Anne Schmitt. “Mark comes to us with years of experience in choral and orchestral music. His dedication to excellence, dynamic and focused rehearsal style, and true warmth and love of people make him the perfect choice to lead our community choir. We look forward to working with him.”

Douglass has conducted choirs and instrumental ensembles at the collegiate, community, church, and school levels. His compositions have been performed internationally and featured in concerts, films, and on PBS, including performances at Carnegie Hall and the Detroit Jazz Festival. Throughout his work as a conductor and educator, he emphasizes musical excellence, collaboration, and the power of music to build community.

The Hillsdale Arts Chorale will begin its new season Monday, August 31 at 7 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Hillsdale. New singers are welcome, and anyone interested in joining the Chorale is encouraged to attend the first rehearsal and be part of the ensemble’s first season under Douglass’ direction.