The strength of Columbus Children’s Choir comes from our world class directors. We are spoiled by calling the best and brightest music educators a part of our team. Sarah Santilli is one of those exceptional talents, and today we are sad to announce that she is leaving CCC to focus on her new responsibilities at Upper Arlington and her friends and family. Join me in reflecting upon Sarah’s tenure with CCC and wishing her well on all of her future endeavors.

Sarah has spent the last 9 years as the Santa Maria choir director (now Presto), taking over for Jeanne Wohlgamuth when she accepted the position of Artistic Director. Sarah is a graduate of The Ohio State University and Capital Conservatory’s Kodaly program. Sarah is an accomplished singer, actor, and clarinetist in her own right and believes maintaining an active performance calendar is important to her own teaching.

You won’t be surprised to learn that one of Sarah’s fondest memories is of her choir’s performances at the Columbus Symphony’s Holiday Pops, but you will be surprised to learn that it wasn’t her time on stage that will be hardest to leave behind. It’s the friendships and memories built backstage among her singers. When I spoke with Sarah, that’s what struck me most. Her love for her singers and their families radiates when she talks about her time with CCC. As I think about Sarah’s time with CCC, I remember the performances with the Lancaster Chorale, her Queen City tour, and the national anthem at several Nascar races. Sarah is cool as ice backstage, even when things get stressful. And believe me, they can get stressful.

CCC is a better and richer organization for the time she has been with us and we are so excited to see what she does next. Please join me in thanking her for sharing her talents with us these past 9 years, by posting comments here or on our facebook page for her to read.

Stay tuned for more information about Dameon Jones, who is well prepared to fill some big shoes. Please enjoy some of Sarah’s favorite photos below.

Inspired by what you read today? Just $25 buys a full year’s worth of sheet music for our youngest singers. Make your gift today