Dear Steiner Community,

The Steiner Chorale is in a season of transition, and we want to take a moment to share an update with our friends, supporters, and extended musical family.

This past August, we experienced the devastating loss of our Director, Steven Easterling, who passed away unexpectedly. Steven was an inimitable presence in the mid-Michigan vocal community. He was an inspiring performer, a gifted leader and teacher, and a dear friend to so many of us. His artistry, humor, and deep love of choral music left an indelible mark on the Steiner Chorale and on all who had the privilege to sing under his direction. His absence is felt profoundly, but his influence continues to resonate in every note we sing.

As we grieve this tremendous loss, we also look toward the future with hope and gratitude. We are delighted to welcome JK Hilbert as our new Director. JK’s sterling résumé includes a wide variety of professional experiences as an artistic director, conductor, composer/arranger and educator in musical genres ranging from classical to Broadway to pop, involving choruses and orchestras of every size—from modest church parishes to the San Francisco Opera. Born in St. Joseph, he recently relocated to Michigan from Los Angeles to be closer to his family. He is a prolific composer, having scored musicals, classical vocal compositions, films, and advertising themes. He brings with him not only impressive musical experience but also a vibrant creative energy and a deep commitment to community-centered performance. We are excited for this new chapter under his leadership and for the fresh ideas he brings to the ensemble.

The Chorale is currently hard at work preparing for our holiday concert on Sunday, December 7 at 4:00 p.m. at University United Methodist Church in East Lansing. This year’s program, titled “Peace, Love, and Joy,” will feature a rich and varied selection of seasonal music, both familiar and new. We’re thrilled to be joined once again by an outstanding group of brass and percussion musicians from across the mid-Michigan area, whose artistry adds depth and brilliance to our sound.

A highlight of this concert will be a special piece that JK has composed and arranged in Steven’s honor. This heartfelt musical tribute celebrates Steven’s enduring legacy and the joy he brought to all who knew him.

We hope you will join us on December 7 as we come together to remember Steven, welcome JK, and celebrate the spirit of the holiday season through song. Your continued support means so much to us; it is the foundation that allows the Steiner Chorale to keep creating, growing, and sharing music with our community.

With gratitude and song,

Cait Cavanagh

President, The Steiner Chorale