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Biography
Christopher Lerch is a conductor, educator, and tenor currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting at the University of Washington. Prior to beginning his doctoral studies, he earned a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from Central Washington University, where he served as a graduate teaching assistant, instructor for the aural skills sequence, and assistant conductor for all major choral ensembles. He also maintained a private voice and piano studio, working with students of varying ages and experience levels.
Before moving to Washington, Christopher received his Bachelor of Music Education from Illinois Wesleyan University, where he studied with J. Scott Ferguson. Following this, he taught middle and high school choir in Illinois, directing curricular and extra-curricular ensembles as well as musical theater productions. During his tenure, he expanded performance opportunities for students by establishing a touring chamber ensemble and fostering a culture of musical excellence and community engagement.
As a performer, Christopher has sung throughout the United States and abroad, with appearances in Italy, South Africa, Canada, Poland, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. His work spans opera, choral, and solo repertoire, including performances as Tamino in Die Zauberflöte, Prince Charming in Cendrillon, and Ferrando in Così fan tutte. He was a member of the 2025 International Lyric Academy in Vicenza, Italy, where he studied and performed with an international faculty and cast.
His research interests include African American spirituals, choral performance practice, and the influence of oral tradition on the evolution of choral repertoire.