The Board of the Burlington Choral Society (BCS) is pleased to announce the selection of Dr. James Stewart as its new Artistic Director for the 2026-2027 concert season. James brings strengths to BCS as an experienced conductor, performer, and composer. His emphasis on music education and the relevancy of music to our lived experience makes James a compelling choice to lead the Chorus into the future. 

James has been directing choirs in church, schools and onstage since he was 15 years old. You might recognize James’ name and voice as the afternoon music host on Vermont Public Classical for over ten years. He currently serves as the music director of the Montpelier Community Gospel Choir and just finished his tenure as Composer-in-Residence for the Solaris Vocal Ensemble. James holds a Master’s degree from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and a doctorate from the Hartt School of Music at the University of Hartford.

“I am so excited to be a part of the Burlington Choral Society. We have the opportunity to celebrate and build on the legacy and traditions of the ensemble while looking towards the future; sharing music making, education and excellence in our community.”

BCS celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, and we are excited to have James at the helm for the next chapter of music making. Stay tuned for details of our fall and spring concerts to find out what James and the BCS have in store!