Susanne Sheston has been appointed chorus master of the Utah Symphony Chorus, the Utah Symphony & Opera has announced.
She joined the organization in 2002, replacing Douglas Kinney-Frost as chorus master of the Utah Opera Chorus. With her new position, she is now in charge of both choral groups.
Sheston has been interim director of the Utah Symphony Chorus since April 2003, when long-time chorus master Edgar Thompson retired after more than two decades directing the ensemble.
Having both positions effectively doubles Sheston's work load, but she's elated to have been selected to lead the symphony chorus. "I'm really excited. We have a fantastic group of singers, and we have the potential to strengthen our involvement with the symphony."
Sheston will have her work cut out for her next season. The Utah Symphony and Chorus has three major choral works coming up. In December, the group will perform J.S. Bach's "Magnificat" and Vivaldi's "Gloria." Next May, music director Keith Lockhart continues his Mahler cycle with the Symphony No. 2, "Resurrection."
Except for the Vivaldi, this will be the first time that Sheston will tackle these works, but she said that she's ready for the challenge. "I enjoy having fresh new literature. I'm looking forward to it."
She said that for her, an ideal season would combine familiar works with new pieces. "I like having new things and things that I've done before. That adds a fresh perspective to your work."
Sheston has had experience with both opera choruses and concert choirs. Before coming to Utah, she was chorus master for the Des Moines Metro Opera, and she directed several choirs at Simpson College in Iowa. She said that there are a number of inherent differences, as well as similarities, between opera and concert choruses. "They go about learning the music in the same way. With the opera chorus, though, they have to learn the music and be able to move around. But with the symphony chorus, the major consideration with them is in the physical arrangement — in seating and blending the voices to achieve the desired effect."
Even after working with them for over a year now, Sheston said the symphony chorus still impresses her with its talent. "They have great musicianship skills and a good ear for pitch. I'm amazed at their artistic training and high level of talent, not to mention the passion each one brings to the chorus."
She said they handle their demanding schedule well — not only do they sing classical works but they also do a number of pops concerts. "That's a challenge for them, because they perform so many different styles. But they're a versatile group."
Sheston said that she has developed a good working relationship with Lockhart in the past year and is pleased to be able to continue their collaboration. "I've really enjoyed working with Keith, and I'm looking forward to working with him in the future."
E-mail: ereichel@desnews.com