LEADERSHIP
Eric Dale Knapp
Artistic Director & Conductor, Connecticut Choral Society
Music & Artistic Director, Orchestra Nexus
Celebrated Conductor · Visionary Arts Leader · Global Cultural Diplomat
Eric Dale Knapp is a conductor of global standing whose artistic journey bridges continents, cultures, and centuries of musical tradition. With a baton that inspires both precision and poetry, he is celebrated for performances that transcend the concert hall—resonating as profound expressions of human dignity, collective memory, and shared aspiration. Whether leading choirs in cathedral spaces or commanding the world’s premier orchestral stages, Mr. Knapp shapes every musical moment into an act of connection—of spirit meeting sound.
As Artistic Director and Conductor of the Connecticut Choral Society, Mr. Knapp has transformed the ensemble into an internationally recognized force in choral artistry. Under his visionary leadership, the chorus has cultivated an identity rooted in daring programming, uncompromising excellence, and the belief that music must serve both art and humanity. His tenure has seen the ensemble evolve from a regional treasure into a cultural emissary—uniting local commitment with global perspective.
A conductor of wide-ranging repertoire and refined depth, Mr. Knapp’s education mirrors the breadth of his artistry. He holds advanced degrees in music education, conducting, and performance from Drake University, with further studies at The Juilliard School. Mentored by the distinguished Dr. Aimee Beckmann-Collier, who invited him to teach at the university while still in his twenties, Knapp began forging his distinctive ethos of leadership—one rooted in collaboration, color, and courage. His technique was further refined through masterclasses with legends such as Robert Shaw, Helmuth Rilling, Michael Tilson Thomas, and Jorge Mester. Especially pivotal was his work with Swiss maestro Johannes Schlaefli at the Zürcher Hochschule der Künste, where he honed a conducting language marked by structural lucidity, interpretive boldness, and emotional insight.
Mr. Knapp has conducted in the world’s most storied venues, from the gilded beauty of Vienna’s Musikverein to the architectural majesty of the Vatican, the Sydney Opera House, and the Forbidden City Concert Hall in Beijing. His performances have graced Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, and cathedrals and cultural landmarks across six continents—including Berlin’s Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, and Dvořák Hall in Prague. With each appearance, he brings a deep reverence for history and place—infusing performances with cultural meaning and universal reach.
His international collaborations include orchestras such as the Tianjin Symphony Orchestra, the Sydney Festival Orchestra, London’s Academic Orchestra, the Berlin Sinfonietta, the Vratsa Philharmonie, the Bohuslav Martinů Philharmonic, the Kroměříž Orchestra, and the Orchestra de Camerata. His programming traverses the classical canon and contemporary innovation, including sacred works by Vivaldi and Bach, symphonic masterworks by Brahms and Mahler, and groundbreaking premieres that push the boundaries of musical storytelling. His interpretations are lauded for their expressive clarity, architectural integrity, and deeply human resonance.
Among his most impactful performances are Verdi’s Requiem at the Lake Como Opera House, Fauré’s Requiem at L’église de la Madeleine in Paris, and Duruflé’s Requiem beneath the sweeping sails of the Sydney Opera House. His reading of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony at the 2008 Olympic Cultural Festival in China served as an emblem of cross-cultural harmony, while his performance of Haydn’s Heilige Messe at Vienna’s Musikverein paid homage to the intersection of sacred tradition and architectural wonder. A career highlight includes conducting Alexandre Guilmant’s Organ Symphony No. 1 with the legendary Frederick Swann at the Sydney Opera House—a towering synthesis of organ grandeur and orchestral brilliance.
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Linda Sweetman-Waters
Artist in Residence
Linda Sweetman-Waters is a globally renowned pianist, organist, and collaborative artist, celebrated for her unparalleled artistry and profound commitment to elevating the human spirit through the transformative power of music. Her musical career, marked by elegance and commanding presence, has established her as one of the most distinguished and versatile performers of her generation.
A sought-after soloist, Linda has graced the stages of some of the world’s most prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall, Weill Recital Hall, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, Merkin Hall, Lincoln Center’s Bruno Walter Auditorium, and WQXR’s Listening Room in New York City. Her performances are noted for their technical brilliance and emotional depth, captivating audiences and critics alike. She has been a featured soloist with prominent orchestras such as the North Jersey Philharmonic and the Williamsburg Symphonia, consistently earning acclaim for her powerful, expressive interpretations.
Linda’s collaboration with the Ridgewood Symphony in the premiere of Concerto for Piano and Orchestra by American composer Richard Lane exemplifies her unwavering commitment to contemporary music. Written expressly for her, the work highlights her ability to bring new compositions to life with artistry and insight. Linda has also performed at international festivals, including the International Haydn Festival in Vienna’s historic Musikverein, the Forbidden City Concert Hall in Beijing, and the Oriental Arts Center in Shanghai, underscoring her role in global cultural diplomacy. Her solo performance with the Tianjin Symphony Orchestra remains a milestone in the cross-cultural exchange of music, celebrating her belief in music as a universal language.
As a chamber musician, Linda’s artistry has resonated across Europe in cities such as London, Copenhagen, Brussels, and Zurich. Her music has also been heard in iconic venues like the White House and the National Gallery of Art. Whether performing solo or as part of an ensemble, she brings both technical mastery and a deeply sensitive musical touch to every performance.
A revered collaborator, Linda has worked alongside world-renowned conductors such as Lenora Thom, Joshua Greene, Diane Wittry, Janna Hymes, and most recently, Eric Dale Knapp, Artistic Director of the Connecticut Choral Society. For over 20 years, Linda has served as the principal pianist and organist for the Connecticut Choral Society, playing an integral role in shaping its artistic identity. Her long-standing work with MidAmerica Productions has also seen her perform under the baton of celebrated British conductor John Rutter, bringing some of the most beloved choral works to life.
Linda’s musical journey began with rigorous study at the Vienna State Academy of Music, immersing herself in the classical tradition at its European source. She is also a graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University and has since dedicated herself to music education, maintaining a vibrant private teaching studio while serving as an adjunct faculty member at William Paterson University. Linda’s legacy extends beyond the concert hall as a passionate educator, shaping the next generation of musicians with her knowledge, expertise, and unwavering commitment to artistic excellence.
In addition to her work as a performer and educator, Linda has held leadership positions in the musical community, including Vice President of the Professional Music Teachers Guild. She remains an active church organist and music director in Ridgewood, New Jersey, where her influence has been felt for decades.
With a career that spans continents and some of the world’s most iconic concert halls, Linda Sweetman-Waters continues to inspire, uplift, and transform through the universal language of music. Her legacy is not only in the extraordinary performances she has given but in the countless individuals she has inspired along the way.
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Max Vladimiroff
Composer · Pianist · Educator
Max Vladimiroff is a visionary composer, renowned concert pianist, and distinguished educator whose contributions to the musical world resonate far beyond the stage. His unique fusion of technical precision, lyrical expression, and profound human insight has made him an indispensable voice in the cultural landscape of Western Connecticut. As a composer, his works blend the great traditions of Russian music with a contemporary sensibility that speaks to audiences globally, while his performances as a pianist captivate listeners with a rare depth of intellect and emotion. Through his pedagogy, Max has nurtured countless musicians, empowering them to find their own artistic voices while carrying forward his legacy of excellence.
Born in Russia, Max’s musical foundations were laid early at the prestigious Gnessin College of Music in Moscow, where he studied piano and improvisation under the guidance of some of Russia’s most revered pedagogues. His technical training was unmatched, but it was in his exploration of improvisation that Max began to understand music as a living, breathing form of expression. His studies provided him with a foundation that would support his multifaceted career and allow him to make a profound mark on both classical and contemporary music.
After moving to the United States, Max continued his academic journey at the University of California, Irvine, where he earned an MFA in music composition. It was during these years that his compositional voice began to take shape, influenced by the harmonic sophistication and emotional intensity that characterized the great Russian composers, while simultaneously embracing the freedom and innovation of modern music. His studies with celebrated composer Philip Lasser in New York further deepened his artistic vision, refining his ability to manipulate complex musical forms with a seamless blend of tradition and modernity. The result is music that is as technically intricate as it is deeply expressive, a balance that has earned Max critical acclaim.
Max’s compositions have been celebrated for their ability to transcend conventional boundaries, with a lyricism that speaks to the human condition in a way that is both timeless and contemporary. His works, performed by orchestras, choirs, and soloists across the United States, showcase a deep understanding of form and structure, yet are imbued with emotional resonance that connects deeply with audiences. Max’s music, whether instrumental or choral, is known for its poetic nuance, its careful harmonic development, and its striking moments of beauty that evoke a profound sense of wonder and introspection.
Max’s excellence as a pianist is equally respected. His performances, whether in solo recitals, chamber music settings, or sacred performances, are marked by an intellectual clarity that enhances the emotional depth of the music. His interpretations are never merely technical; they are deeply communicative, conveying the spirit of the work with sincerity and authenticity. Max’s musicality brings a sense of reverence and introspection to every note he plays, captivating listeners with both the intellect behind his choices and the emotional richness they convey.
In addition to his work as a composer and performer, Max has made an indelible mark as an educator. His students have gone on to successful careers in music, inspired by his unwavering commitment to excellence and his holistic approach to music-making. Max views teaching not just as the imparting of technical skills but as the cultivation of artistic sensibilities that empower his students to explore their creative potential. His mentorship is grounded in the belief that music is not just a profession but a vocation—a calling that shapes and is shaped by the heart and soul of the artist. His generosity as a teacher is evident in the lasting relationships he fosters with his students, who often return to him for continued guidance throughout their careers.
Max has also served as the Director of Music at Valley Presbyterian Church in Brookfield, Connecticut, since 2006, a position that has allowed him to infuse sacred music with the same depth of expression and beauty that characterizes his other work. Under his leadership, the church has become a hub for musical excellence, offering both the congregation and the broader community a rich program of sacred music that reflects the profound spiritual and emotional dimensions of the art form. Max’s contributions at the piano and organ have been transformative, bringing a new level of artistic excellence to the church and enriching the spiritual lives of those who worship there.
More than a musician, Max Vladimiroff is a cultural treasure—an artist whose devotion to beauty, emotional honesty, and humanity in music has touched the lives of many. His influence continues to grow through his compositions, his teaching, and his unwavering commitment to the transformative power of music. Max’s legacy is one of lasting inspiration, enriching the artistic life of Western Connecticut and beyond. Whether composing music that resonates deeply with the soul, performing with intellectual insight and emotional depth, or mentoring the next generation of musicians, Max continues to enrich the artistic life of Western Connecticut and the wider musical community. His influence is far-reaching, and his work will continue to inspire for generations to come.
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Jennifer Sisco
Guest Conductor – Vocal Coach – Soprano
Jennifer Sisco is a distinguished soprano, accomplished conductor, and devoted music educator whose profound artistry and visionary leadership have made an indelible impact on the Connecticut Choral Society and the broader artistic community. With a career defined by grace, insight, and a rare depth of musical expression, she is celebrated for her ability to inspire both singers and audiences with performances that transcend the ordinary.
Jennifer made her debut as Guest Conductor for the Connecticut Choral Society in their evocative 2024 concert Evensong, and is eagerly anticipated to return to the podium in 2025 to guide the ensemble through another transformative musical journey. In addition to her conducting appearances, Jennifer is a trusted vocal coach whose guidance is sought after by singers at every level. Her unparalleled expertise in vocal technique, coupled with a sensitive interpretive eye, enables her to shape the voices of her students with nuance, precision, and artistry.
A graduate of the University of the Pacific Conservatory of Music, Jennifer earned her Bachelor of Music cum laude in Vocal Performance, before going on to complete a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the University of Oregon. There, she was awarded a prestigious fellowship with the Eugene Opera Company, a testament to her exceptional talent and promise. Her academic pursuits have been as varied as they are distinguished, encompassing advanced studies in choral conducting, vocal pedagogy, orchestration, arranging, and the history of sacred music, grounding her artistry in a rich and expansive understanding of both vocal and choral traditions.
Jennifer’s operatic career has been marked by roles of remarkable depth and expressiveness, with her voice praised for its clarity, warmth, and dramatic resonance. She has sung leading soprano roles in regional opera houses and concert stages across the United States and Europe, including acclaimed performances in Hungary, Romania, and the Czech Republic. Her interpretations span the full range of operatic repertoire, from the timeless works of Mozart and Puccini to the vibrant voices of contemporary composers. Her voice, whether portraying the delicate nuances of a Mozart aria or the passionate intensity of Puccini, is noted for its stylistic versatility and emotional resonance. In addition to her opera work, Jennifer has graced the stages of Off-Broadway and cabaret productions in New York City, where her theatrical presence and interpretive depth have enchanted audiences in more intimate, yet equally impactful settings.
A versatile musician, Jennifer is also a skilled pianist whose artistry complements her vocal excellence. She has been recognized with numerous awards in both vocal and instrumental performance, underscoring her multifaceted musical talents and deep commitment to artistic expression.
Currently, Jennifer serves as Minister of Music at Trinity Episcopal Church in Newtown, Connecticut, where she leads a thriving and inclusive music ministry. Her innovative leadership nurtures a dynamic program encompassing choral, instrumental, and intergenerational music, creating a vibrant tapestry of musical expression that resonates with the entire community. Jennifer’s deep commitment to music education is further demonstrated through her recent role as Music Director for Reed Intermediate School’s production of The Wizard of Oz, where her passion for nurturing young talent and fostering community engagement shone brightly.
Jennifer Sisco’s artistry is a beacon of excellence in Western Connecticut’s cultural landscape. She brings a rare combination of sophistication, vision, and warmth to every musical endeavor, and her contributions to the Connecticut Choral Society—through her leadership, collaboration, and inspiring performances—have helped shape its enduring legacy of choral excellence and cultural enrichment. As a consummate artist and a cherished collaborator, Jennifer’s work continues to elevate the musical community, inspiring all who have the privilege of experiencing her artistry.
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Jonathan Taylor
Business Manager
Jonathan Taylor is a dynamic and multifaceted executive whose career spans the highest levels of corporate finance, arts administration, and cultural entrepreneurship. As Business Manager of the Connecticut Choral Society, he serves as a key strategic advisor and operational leader—overseeing fiscal planning, institutional development, and long-term growth initiatives for one of the region’s most respected choral organizations. His leadership has helped shape CCS’s evolution into a model of artistic excellence and financial resilience.
Jonathan’s professional background includes senior leadership roles within Big Four accounting firms, where he advised some of the world’s most influential Fortune 500 companies. Over the course of his career, he has specialized in corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, financial reporting, and operational restructuring. His reputation as a trusted strategist is rooted in his ability to synthesize complex financial data with human-centered insights—always with an eye toward scalable impact and sustainable growth.
Parallel to his corporate achievements, Jonathan has been a passionate and active contributor to the performing arts. A lifelong believer in the transformative power of music, he has served on the boards of major cultural institutions including Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, where he supported artistic programming, donor development, and institutional advancement. His cross-sector perspective allows him to champion the arts not only as a patron and administrator, but as a strategic leader who understands the evolving challenges and opportunities facing nonprofit organizations today.
Jonathan’s work in the entertainment industry includes creative and business-side collaborations with a diverse range of artists and ensembles. From legacy classical organizations to internationally renowned acts like Maroon 5, he has helped bring artistic visions to life through thoughtful financial planning, production support, and stakeholder alignment. His ability to navigate both the boardroom and the backstage makes him a rare and valuable asset in today’s cultural ecosystem.
At the Connecticut Choral Society, Jonathan continues to merge his expertise in finance and governance with a profound dedication to community-building through the arts. Whether stewarding budgets, shaping strategic partnerships, or mentoring future leaders, he approaches each task with integrity, creativity, and a deep respect for the role of music in civic life.
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Linda Cyr
Director of Communications
Linda Cyr is a seasoned communications leader, event strategist, and customer service expert who brings over 30 years of professional experience to her role as Director of Communications and Digital Media for the Connecticut Choral Society. With a deep commitment to excellence and a passion for connecting people through the power of music, Linda plays an essential role in shaping the Society’s public voice and expanding its reach across the region and beyond.
Her professional journey spans a wide range of industries, including banking, corporate administration, nonprofit leadership, and industrial technology—where she notably helped manage the order processing and delivery of a PUMA industrial robot for General Motors’ Bird and Robot Show at Epcot, blending technological innovation with musical storytelling. This early convergence of industry and art foreshadowed her future impact in cultural communications.
Linda’s distinguished expertise in customer service has been a defining feature of her career. A certified Customer Service and Sales Professional and Instructor through the National Retail Federation Foundation, she approaches every interaction with the belief that “Customer service is an attitude, not a department.” Whether working with singers, board members, donors, patrons, or community partners, she ensures that every voice is heard, valued, and uplifted. Her client-centered mindset has driven measurable growth in outreach, membership, and donor engagement in every organization she has served.
A gifted communicator and creative strategist, Linda has spearheaded numerous successful campaigns across Western Connecticut. During her tenure with the Bethel Chamber of Commerce, she launched an acclaimed initiative welcoming new businesses, resulting in a 75% increase in membership and a 25% rise in event participation. Her talents have also enriched schools, senior centers, and charitable organizations through volunteer efforts, guest reader programs, and neighborhood fundraising drives.
Linda is also a seasoned event planner, having orchestrated everything from community networking forums to large-scale fundraising galas that exceeded financial goals and drew full-house attendance. Her ability to craft compelling messaging, secure sponsors, and promote events through dynamic social media campaigns has helped organizations amplify their missions and elevate their visibility.
Rooted in a family where music was a source of joy and connection, Linda’s early years were filled with singing, dancing, and the sound of her mother playing the organ. She carried that love into her own life—singing in high school chorus, taking music appreciation courses, and ultimately finding a professional home at the intersection of music and community.
Today, Linda Cyr is a vital part of the CCS leadership team. Her integrity, warmth, and visionary communication help illuminate the work of the Connecticut Choral Society, ensuring that its message—like its music—resonates with clarity, beauty, and purpose.
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Carolyn Fagerholm
Director of Digital Media & Strategic Outreach
Carolyn Fagerholm is a dynamic mezzo-soprano, digital strategist, and native of Newtown, Connecticut, whose dual passions for performance and promotion have made her an essential member of the Connecticut Choral Society’s leadership team. As Director of Digital Media & Strategic Outreach, Carolyn spearheads the Society’s efforts to expand its audience, attract new singers, and deepen community engagement through compelling media campaigns and innovative online initiatives.
Carolyn holds a B.A. in Music from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and an M.M. in Vocal Performance from Bowling Green State University. In 2021, she founded CMF and Company LLC, where she combines her artistic sensibility with data-driven expertise as a Certified Meta Ads Strategist. Her entrepreneurial spirit and strategic vision have helped businesses and arts organizations alike achieve their outreach goals through effective paid advertising and brand development.
At CCS, Carolyn plays a pivotal role in amplifying the Society’s mission—harnessing the power of digital media to share the joy of choral music with a broader, more diverse audience. Her creative leadership supports the Society’s continued growth and ensures that its message resonates far beyond the concert hall.
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Michelle Williams
Sponsorship & Advertising Outreach Coordinator
Michelle Williams brings a dynamic blend of community leadership, business development, and strategic outreach to her role with the Connecticut Choral Society. As the architect behind the long-running St. Mary’s Carnival & Festival, Michelle has spent years building meaningful connections between nonprofits, local businesses, and the wider community—skills she now brings to support CCS’s mission.
Anchored in the business community of Western Connecticut, Michelle has a strong track record in sponsorship acquisition, advertising strategy, and partnership development. Her experience spans both nonprofit organizations and small business sectors, where she has crafted impactful campaigns that drive engagement, visibility, and support.
At CCS, Michelle plays a key role in expanding our reach and strengthening our presence in the region. Her thoughtful approach to sponsor relations and community outreach ensures that our concerts and programs not only thrive artistically, but are also supported by a vibrant network of local advocates and partners.