Stephen Salts

Professional Background

Stephen Salts is an internationally distinguished Fulbright scholar, renowned for his expertise in choral music and conducting. His career has taken him across various prestigious venues worldwide, including iconic locations such as Westminster Abbey and prominent Basilicas in Rome. Furthermore, Stephen has mesmerized audiences in New York City and Los Angeles, showcasing his incredible talent as a conductor. His experiences span a diverse range of engagements, making him a prominent figure in the world of choral music.

Currently, Stephen serves as the Production Manager for the Los Angeles Master Chorale, where he plays an essential role in overseeing productions and managing the operational aspects of one of the leading choral organizations in the United States. His leadership contributions have ensured that complex choral performances remain seamless and vibrant.

In addition to his conducting, Stephen is celebrated as a versatile bass-baritone, showcasing his vocal talents in numerous prestigious recordings. He has been featured as both a soloist and a chorister on major studio recordings with Hyperion Records. His collaboration with this distinguished label highlights his dedication to the enrichment and development of contemporary American choral music.

Stephen's impressive repertoire has also led him to collaborate with esteemed organizations, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Notable performance highlights have included singing for Her Majesty The Queen and holding prestigious residencies at acclaimed cathedrals such as St Paul’s Cathedral and Canterbury Cathedral. Such experiences underscore his comprehensive involvement in the global music community and his stature as a respected musician.

Education and Achievements

Stephen’s educational background is equally impressive, as he has earned multiple degrees in music that have solidified his foundation as a leading figure in choral conducting. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree in voice performance from Florida State University, attaining the honor of Magna cum laude. His quest for knowledge in the field led him to pursue further education, earning a Master of Music degree in choral conducting from the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music at California State University, Long Beach, where he achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA and graduated Summa cum laude.

Further demonstrating his commitment to academic excellence, Stephen earned a Master of Music degree with the highest honors from Royal Holloway, University of London. His time at Royal Holloway was spent under the auspices of a Fulbright Scholarship, where he focused his research on the Anglican choral tradition—a distinguished subject that parallels his conducting career. Such a comprehensive background not only showcases his dedication but also his ability to merge scholarly research with practical application in the performing arts.

Throughout his career, Stephen has maintained a connection to academia as well, having previously held a position as Associate Faculty of Music at Riverside City College. There, he conducted the institution's Concert Choir and taught a diverse studio of voice and conducting students. His dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians reflects his passion for education and mentorship in the arts.

Moreover, Stephen has demonstrated his exceptional conducting abilities through leadership roles, such as conducting the Royal Holloway Founder’s Choir and serving as the assistant conductor of the renowned Choir of Royal Holloway. He also played a significant role as assistant conductor for the 2016 “Choir of the World”—the Bob Cole Conservatory Chamber Choir, further adding to his rich tapestry of experiences in the realm of choral music.

Achievements

Stephen Salts has achieved a plethora of experiences and accolades throughout his illustrious career. As a musician, his opportunities have set him apart within the choral music community. His notable performance at Westminster Abbey, among the outstanding venues in Rome, New York, and Los Angeles, has garnered admiration and respect from his peers and audiences alike.

Additionally, his contributions to the field are highlighted in his extensive recording work with Hyperion Records, where he co-authored liner notes for a recording of contemporary American choral music, emphasizing his commitment to both performing and speaking to the artistic narrative of each piece. This comprehensive blend of vocal and written expression speaks to his well-rounded capabilities as a musician.

Stephen's recognition extends beyond performance, as evidenced by the many opportunities to engage with prominent institutions, including singing for Her Majesty The Queen and performing with the prestigious Los Angeles Philharmonic. His invitations to hold residencies at historic sites like St Paul’s Cathedral and Canterbury Cathedral reflect his importance as a performer and his deep connection to historical and contemporary choral traditions.

Overall, Stephen Salts stands out as a passionate and committed musician, conductor, and educator whose storied career in choral music continues to inspire those around him. His leadership within the Los Angeles Master Chorale and beyond catalyzes a deeper appreciation for choral music, perpetuating its significance in both educational settings and public performances.