Sandra Snow is no stranger to the Pacific International Children’s Choir Festival podium.  Now making her third appearance, Dr. Snow brings the highest level of artistry with a wonderful charisma and personable connection with choristers and their conductors.

Snow is a nationally known choral clinician, conductor, and music educator. She also edits several Boosey & Hawkes choral publication series, including "In High Voice," and recently co-authored a chapter in the revised edition of the textbook, "Dimensions of Musical Learning and Teaching." She is frequently engaged as principal conductor and keynoter for state and national music educator association conferences and festivals, including American Choral Director Association National Conferences.

Dr. Snow is associate professor of music education and choral conducting at the Michigan State University College of Music.

PICCFEST 2008 – A Dream Come True

Under the theme I DREAM A WORLD, the 11th annual Pacific International Children’s Choir Festival, June 24 – 30, was an exhilarating experience of fabulous choral singing, collaboration and community. Eugene, Oregon is usually on the choral music map during this time each year when the prestigious Oregon Bach Festival and PICCFEST overlap for six music-filled days.

2008 marked their convergence with one more spectacular event – the U. S. Olympic Track & Field Trials.  With the renowned Hayward Field Stadium adjacent to the PICCFEST lodging, the festive atmosphere was heightened by more than 20,000 spectators each day and a street fair surrounding the stadium. 

The usual PICCFEST chorus performance at the opening ceremonies of the Bach Festival was moved to Hayward Field’s entertainment venue, bringing music and track fans together for a thrilling performance, projected onto three gigantic screens inside and out of the stadium.

The final concert, in Eugene’s beautiful Silva Hall at the Hult Center for the Performing Arts, was a tapestry of music from around the world. Assisted by members of the Eugene Youth Symphony and the festival percussion ensemble, Composer Bob Chilcott created musical magic as the PICCFEST Guest Conductor.

Congratulations to Bob and all the participants for a memorable festival week. To see photos and video clips, click on the 2008 Gallery to your left.