Discover the Artistry of The Choral Experience
At The Choral Experience, we are committed to delivering exceptional choral performances that inspire and unite. Affiliated with Missouri Western State University, our ensemble fosters collaboration between students and professionals, enriching the community through musical excellence and education.
Experience the Harmony of The Choral Experience
Meet the dedicated professionals leading our exceptional choral ensemble.
Dr. Paul Dease
Co-Artistic Director and Conductor
With a rich background in choral performance, he inspires both students and professionals alike.
Dr. Dease is a native of Dothan, AL. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Choral/Vocal Music from the University of Montevallo (1995), a Master of Music in Choral Conducting with advanced studies in Vocal Pedagogy (1997), and a Ph.D. in Choral Conducting/Choral Music Education from the Florida State University College of Music (2007). His conducting and teaching experience includes Southeastern Louisiana University, Midwestern State University Texas, The Magic City Choral Society, The Red Mountain Chamber Orchestra, members of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, Southside Baptist Church Birmingham AL, Red Mountain Theatre Summer Youth Workshop, Opera Birmingham, The University of Alabama, The Florida State University College of Music, Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra Chorus, East Carolina University, and The Greenville Choral Society and New Carolina Sinfonia.
Dr. Dease has guest conducted across the southeastern and southwestern United States. Dr. Dease has studied with Judy Bowers, Kevin Fenton, Rhonda Fleming, Cliff Madsen, and André Thomas. His early/formative mentors include Kathryn Foster, Judy and Gene Montgomery, and Gilda Wilkerson.
Lorrie Dixon
Co-Artistic Director and Collaborative Pianist
She brings innovative techniques and a passion for collaborative music-making.
Lorrie Dixon is the rehearsal accompanist and collaborative pianist for the School of Fine Arts. She received her bachelors degree in music education (with piano emphasis) from Union University in Jackson, Tennessee. She has over 30 years of experience accompanying university, high school, musical theater, private studios, and honor choirs throughout Tennessee, Kansas, Arkansas, and Missouri. She is the Collaborative Pianist for the St Joseph Community Chorus and is currently pursuing a Collaborative Pianist/ Vocal Coach master’s degree from the UMKC Conservatory of Music.
Dein Gentry
General Manager
Her expertise is the backbone of the Choral Experience