Orpheus announces new Artistic Director JD Burnett

The Orpheus Chamber Singers announce the appointment of J.D. Burnett to the position of Artistic Director, effective January 1, 2022. Dr. Burnett will assume the position after the retirement of Orpheus's founder, Donald Krehbiel.

"After an 18-month search, we are pleased to announce J.D. Burnett as our new Artistic Director," said Ruth Ann Ritchie, Executive Director. "Throughout the audition process, J.D. has proven himself to be not only a gifted musician and talented choral conductor, but a thoughtful programmer with a clear artistic vision for how to lead the organization forward. I am excited to begin working with him right away as we ensure Orpheus's continued growth and success.”

Burnett is currently Associate Professor of Music at the University of Georgia and is the founding Artistic Director of Kinnara, Atlanta's premier professional choral ensemble. “I’m thrilled to join the Orpheus Chamber Singers as their second Artistic Director," said Burnett. "Orpheus has set the standard for professional choral singing in Dallas for the last twenty-five years. I look forward to carrying on the excellent work of Don Krehbiel and the many artists whose work has shaped this admirable legacy.”

Pandemic guidelines allowing, Orpheus plans to return to live concert programming in Fall 2021. Mr. Krehbiel's final two performances with the choir are tentatively scheduled for October and December, while Dr. Burnett's first performance with the ensemble is slated for Spring 2022.

"While we will miss Don Krehbiel and his 26 years of exquisite concerts, we are excited for the future," added Barbara Schultz Mickey, Orpheus Board President.