Leadership

David De Lyser

Artistic Director

Dr. David De Lyser assumed the position of Artistic Director and Conductor with the Choral Arts Ensemble of Portland in May of 2012. He is also Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at the University of Portland, where, in addition to conducting the University Singers and Chamber Choir, he teaches music theory, composition, orchestration, conducting, and is the music director for campus musicals. He maintains a busy schedule of guest conducting and adjudicating in the Northwest. He holds graduate degrees in conducting and composition from the University of Northern Colorado and the University of Portland, and a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Business from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Dr. De Lyser is a published author and award-winning composer whose works have been commissioned, premiered and performed by professional, collegiate, community and high school performing ensembles throughout the West and Midwest.

Megan Elliott

Assistant Artistic Director

Megan has sung with CAE since 2006, served as alto section leader since 2010, and Assistant Artistic Director since 2013. She holds degrees in Vocal Performance and Music Therapy from Corban University in Salem, OR and Marylhurst University here in Portland. Besides her work with CAE, she has served as director of the Women’s Chorale at Marylhurst University and has directed a choir primarily for people with Parkinson’s disease, as well as supervising music therapy practicum students. She also works as a board certified music therapist in the Portland area, working mainly with children and people with developmental disabilities. She is a frequent vocalist at her church in Tigard and has also performed as a guest soloist at various concerts and events in Portland.