In a press release from Cincinnati, OH dated March 19, 2024, it was announced that Jason Alexander Holmes will assume the role of Associate Director of Choruses and Director of the Youth Chorus for the Cincinnati May Festival starting from the 2024-25 season. Holmes will take over from Matthew Swanson, who will transition into the role of the May Festival’s Director of Choruses.
In his new role, Holmes will be responsible for leading and directing the May Festival Youth Chorus, which comprises talented singers in grades 8-12 from the local region. Additionally, he will contribute to the organization's community engagement initiatives and assist in preparing for the May Festival events.
Matthew Swanson expressed enthusiasm about Holmes' appointment, highlighting his musical expertise and dedication to the local choral community. Holmes, who currently serves as the Artistic Director of the Cincinnati Boychoir, brings a wealth of experience directing various choruses in the Cincinnati area, including the MLK Chorale and the Classical Roots Community Chorus associated with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.
Holmes' background also includes extensive experience as a pianist, music director, and vocalist, with involvement in productions across different theatrical and operatic platforms. Prior to relocating to Cincinnati, he held positions at the Boston Children’s Chorus and taught music at schools in Rochester, New York.
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to join the May Festival team, Holmes emphasized his alignment with the organization's mission to foster community engagement through high-quality choral music. He is renowned for his dynamic conducting style and innovative programming, which integrates diverse musical genres and promotes cultural responsiveness in music education.
Holmes' choirs have consistently received acclaim for their vibrant performances and cohesive sound, reflecting his commitment to excellence in choral artistry. He has also been actively involved in delivering workshops and seminars on culturally responsive music education practices, furthering his impact beyond the concert hall.
