BCI Board member Shohei Kobayashi is Director of Choral Studies at Reed College and Associate Conductor of Resonance Ensemble in Portland, OR. We asked Shohei a few questions to learn more about him:
What’s one of your favorite musical memories and why?
Right after graduating college, I went on a choir tour to Egypt with Lewis & Clark’s Cappella Nova led by long-time BCI friend Katherine FitzGibbon. A few of us were staying in the outskirts of Cairo, and I remember waking up very early on the first day due to jet lag. It was dark and probably around 5:20am because I could hear the sound of amplified Islamic prayer way off in the distance. More and more prayers started at all the different mosques in the city until there was this stunning, layered, electric cloud of voices. Then, each one trailed off and it was quiet again.
What’s your proudest professional accomplishment so far?
One of my proudest professional accomplishments so far was commissioning and premiering Shruthi Rajasekar’s “Whose Names Are Unknown” for strings, piano, and choir with my dear friend and colleague Jabarie Glass. Shruthi and Jabarie both are incredible musicians, collaborators, thinkers and dreamers, and this project stands out as one of the most meaningful I’ve ever been a part of.
What is a favorite hobby or interest that you do in your spare time?
Roller skating! Portland, Oregon is home to Oaks Park Roller Rink which is the oldest roller rink in the US (opened 1905) and houses a hanging Wurlitzer pipe organ that you can still hear played twice a week.
Why do you enjoy serving on the BCI Board of Trustees?
Serving on the BCI Board feels like my way of joyfully paying forward the ways that this organization, especially the apprenticeship program, have helped to shape me and my approach to this choral profession and connect me with lifelong friends. Plus, it’s a privilege just to be in the room and learn from my board colleagues and the BCI team. I’m honored to serve this board.