Leadership
INTERIM DIRECTORS
The Colombia Chorale is currently in a year of transition following the 23 year tenure of Dr Mike Hibbett. We continue to accept inquires from interested conductors for this position. Two interim choral directors will each be featured in a concert for the 2023-2024 season. We are anticipating a vibrant and exciting season with these outstanding conductors! More information coming soon!
ACCOMPANIST & COMPOSER
Ron Lodge, born and raised in Wenatchee, has spent most of his life accompanying school and church choirs, soloists and ensembles, and participated in the outstanding choral programs at Wenatchee High School and Wenatchee Valley College. Ron studied piano with Pauline Lieb and Joy Henderson in Wenatchee, and with Gwendolyn Harper at Eastern Washington University. He is currently staff Organist & Accompanist at Faith Presbyterian Church, and accompanies students and choirs at Eastmont High School. Affiliated with the Columbia Chorale since 1985, Ron has served as choir member, soloist, music composer and arranger, board member, board president and program editor. Ron became the Chorale's accompanist in the fall of 2001. He has arranged and composed a number of choral works specifically for the Chorale.
Director Emeritus
Dr. Mike Hibbett directed the Columbia Chorale from 1999 to 2023, and has maintained a dedicated career in music education, church music, and performance for over 30 years. He received his Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Under his guidance, the Columbia Chorale reached its current level of excellence and while retired as director, he hopes to remain a vital part of the Wenatchee choral community. Thank you, Dr Mike, for all your years of outstanding service!