Kris Kehrer, who directs music at St. Columba Catholic Church in Durango, will be the Mancos Valley Chorus’ new music director and conductor for the 2022-23 season.

Kehrer, “a gifted musician who combines experience in a variety of musical styles, from pop to classical,” enjoys for helping “ordinary people make extraordinary music,” said a news release from Sarah Hatch.

He is a native of Saginaw, Michigan, and earned his undergraduate degree in vocal music from Wayne State University in Detroit, under choral conductor and composer Dr. Gerald Custer.

Kehrer previously served churches in the metro Detroit area for more than 15 years before joining the staff of St. Columba.

“I’m delighted to have this opportunity to collaborate with such a talented ensemble of singers, and to continue their vital mission of sharing the joy of the performing arts with our broader community,” Kehrer said in the news release. “As recent months have made abundantly clear to us all, nothing compares with the power of live music. We look forward to building community, fostering musical excellence, learning from one another – and most of all, having fun making music together. We hope you’ll come join us as we do!”

Rehearsals resume on Thursday, Sept. 15 at 7 p.m. at Mancos United Methodist Church, 470 W. Grand Ave. No auditions are required. The Mancos Valley Chorus’ full COVID vaccination policy will remain in place this fall.

The Mancos Valley Chorus is searching for an accompanist to relieve Kehrer at the piano. Email Sarah at sarahhattch2@gmail.com for more information.