| Rodger Whitten, in June 2004, was appointed Music director of the Swiss Singing Society Harmonie, based in Whittier. Rodger brings a wealth of musical experience to his conducting and playing. A native of Oklahoma, Rodger began piano study at age six and organ at age 12. Mr. Whitten holds a Bachelor's Degree in piano performance from Oklahoma Babtist University, and a Master's Degree, also in piano performance, from the University of Southern California. At USC he studied piano with Professor James Bonn and conducting with Professors Hans Beer and David Wilson. He has toured extensively as pianist, organist, and choral musician throughout Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Mexico. Rodger maintains a busy performance schedule as conductor, piano soloist, accompanist, organist, and chamber musician. Accomplished in many different musical styles, Rodger is enjoying the challenges of conducting Harmonie, with the multiple language and style requirements of its repertoire. For the past thirty-two years, he has served as Organist/Director of Music at Community Church, Congregational, in Corona del Mar. A former faculty member at Irvine Valley College from 1980-89, Mr. Whitten most recently served on the music faculty at UC Irvine for three years, teaching music theory, musicianship, and as conductor of many of the university's choral ensembles. In 2007 and again in 2016, Rodger traveled to Switzerland with the Harmonie for two very successful concert tours. Rodger and his wife Barbara are residents of Wrightwood, CA, where they enjoy hiking, skiing, and family life in the mountains. |
