Gregory Gentry to lead Phoenix Symphony Chorus

(PHOENIX) - The Phoenix Symphony has appointed Dr. Gregory Gentry Chorusmaster of the Symphony Chorus. In this role, Gentry will prepare the Chorus for seven weeks of concerts during the 2006-07 season, including Beethoven's Choral Fantasy in October, Missa Solemnis in May, and Handel's Messiah and "An Arizona Christmas" in December.

"Gregory Gentry's addition to the artistic staff will benefit our organization and the music lovers we serve," said Maryellen Gleason, Phoenix Symphony President and CEO. "Dr. Gentry's appointment reflects our commitment to concert opera and major choral works. His years of experience and dedication to choral music will provide a real artistic asset for our vocalists."

Dr. Gentry teaches at Arizona State University's School of Music in the Herberger College of Fine Arts, where he conducts choral ensembles and leads courses in choral conducting and choral literature. Among his academic interests, Dr. Gentry specializes in Russian choral music. Dr. Gentry holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of Denver and Master's and Doctoral degrees from the University of Missouri - Kansas City Conservatory of Music.

The Phoenix Symphony Chorus is a professional-level choral performing partner for Arizona's only fulltime orchestra. The 150 volunteers of the Chorus collectively donate more than 12,000 hours of service to music and the Symphony each year.

Chorus auditions for the 2006-07 Season will be held in late summer 2006. All candidates must be able to read standard musical notation. For more information about auditions, visit www.phoenixsymphony.org.