Charles Stephenson, Artistic Director, Saddleback Master Chorale

Singer, composer, conductor - Charles Stephenson comes from a family with a long musical history. His grandparents Tom and Elsie Stephenson had one of the first “call in” radio music shows in Chicago in the early 1900s. During his early years his family moved many times, living in numerous countries including Venezuela, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia giving him an interest and appreciation for many different styles of music.  Charles attended Chapman College majoring in vocal performance. He studied voice with several teachers including Jonathan Mack and Nancy Bramledge Ewing. Charles has performed with the Irvine Camerata, Glendale Symphony, William Hall Chorale, Long Beach Opera, Downey Civic Light Opera and numerous other choral organizations and opera companies. Over the past 35 years Charles has had the opportunity to work with Carmen Dragon, Roger Wagner, Dr. William Hall, Jester Hairston, Norman Dello Joio and many other excellent conductors. In addition to working with the Master Chorale, Charles is the Director of Music Ministries at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Laguna Beach. He is actively involved in performing and composing liturgical music, and is pursuing a master’s degree in liturgical studies.