experience. My mission continues to be an inspiration to my students, as she was to me.
are most well exemplified in his “Human Requiem” (German Requiem). Beethoven’s symphonies take second place with their dynamic and dramatic strengths, culminating in his choral 9th Symphony. My most personal connection with the music of an American composer was that of Moses Hogan and his spirituals. This American Legend, world-renowned composer, conductor, pianist and interpreter of the “Spiritual” was a close friend, and a caring human being. His unexpected passing at the young age of 46 was most traumatic and devastating for all who knew him and sang his music.
Has the traditional music of Lebanon or the Middle East also been a part of your artistic Where did you complete your studies in music? I completed a Bachelors of Music degree in piano performance from California State University at Dominguez Hills, where I serve as an adjunct faculty since 1991. I taught for the music department, the humanities department and presently teach for the HUX masters department. My Masters in Music is in Church/Choral Music from the University of Southern California. My Doctorate is in Choral and Orchestral Conducting from USC, focusing on western music. interests? The Rahbani Brothers stand out as my favourite composers among all traditional Arabic music and musicians. I have a special affinity to their compositions and song interpretation. Their operettas and song cycles represent the Lebanese heritage and its rich culture in a most personal and moving manner. During my 2009 sabbatical, my project was to visit Lebanon and compile Arabic choral music to edit, publish and incorporate into the western choral repertoire. I have managed to establish a Is there a composer or musician whose work has special meaning for you? My favourite composer of major works is Johannes Brahms. His rich harmonies, powerful orchestration and moving interpretation of the text series that is being published and promoted among choral groups in the US. I believe that the most effective way to learn about a culture is to sing its music.