Michael McGaghie (Wisconsin)
Founded in 2002, the Isthmus Vocal Ensemble has maintained itself as one of Madison’s most beloved summer musical traditions. The 60-member, all-volunteer choir gathers each July for two intensive weeks of rehearsal, culminating in a weekend of performances for the community. Initially drawing from alumni of the UW-Madison Concert Choir, the membership now includes singers from across the Midwest and beyond. Founding Artistic Director Scott MacPherson led the ensemble from its inception until 2017, building a foundation of musical excellence and fellowship that flourishes to this day under current music director Michael McGaghie. For more information, please visit isthmusvocalensemble.org.
Michael McGaghie joined the Isthmus Vocal Ensemble as Artistic Director in 2018. As Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at Macalester College, he conducts the Macalester Concert Choir and Chorale and teaches courses in musicianship, music history, and conducting. An advocate for the music of living composers, he has commissioned and premiered works by Dominick Argento, Saunder Choi, Dominick DiOrio, Jocelyn Hagen, Tarik O’Regan, Jake Runestad, and Dale Trumbore, among others. He is an active member within ACDA of Minnesota and has served in multiple leadership roles within the National Collegiate Choral Organization. He is deeply grateful for his conducting mentors, Jameson Marvin and Ann Howard Jones.