Robert Istad

Conducting Academy Dean

Robert Istad is beginning his inaugural season as artistic director of Pacific Chorale. Istad’s 2016-2017 season included debuts with the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra, and return engagements with Pacific Chorale, Pacific Symphony Orchestra, Musica Angelica Baroque Orchestra, Sony Classical, and Long Beach Camerata Singers. In June 2016, Istad made his debut with Berkshire Choral International and Santa Rosa Symphony Orchestra.

Istad is also professor of music and director of choral studies at California State University, Fullerton. He was recognized as CSUF’s 2016 Outstanding Professor of the Year. At CSU Fullerton, Istad conducts the University Singers and Women’s Choir in addition to teaching courses in conducting, performance practice and literature. Recently, he and the University Singers performed with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Pacific Symphony Orchestra, Andrea Bocelli, Kathleen Battle, recorded albums with Yarlung Records and with composer John Williams and Sony Classical.

For further biographical details please go to www.robertistad.com.