John Alexander

Artistic director of Pacific Chorale since 1972, John Alexander is one of America’s most respected choral conductors. His inspired leadership both on the podium and as an advocate for the advancement of the choral art has garnered national and international admiration and acclaim. Alexander’s long and distinguished career has encompassed conducting hundreds of choral and orchestral performances nationally and in 27 countries around the globe. A proponent of contemporary American music, Alexander is noted for the strong representation of American works and composers in his programming.

Alexander is nationally recognized for his leadership in the musical and organizational development of the performing arts. He is a board member and former president of Chorus America and has also served on artistic review panels for national, statewide, and local arts organizations, including the National Endowment for the Arts, the California Arts Council, and the Los Angeles County Arts Commission. 

Alexander retired in 2006 from his position as director of choral studies at California State University, Fullerton, having been awarded the honor of Professor Emeritus. From 1970 to 1996, he held the position of director of choral studies at California State University, Northridge. Alexander continues his involvement in the pre-professional training of choral conductors. He is in demand as a teacher, clinician, and adjudicator in festivals, seminars, and workshops across the United States. In 2003, Chorus America honored him with the establishment of the “John Alexander Conducting Faculty Chair” for their national conducting workshops as well as the Michael Korn Founders Award for Development of the Professional Choral Art in 2008.