According to a press release, the Williamsport Civic Chorus is ready to begin a new chapter for the 2026-2027 concert season. Bidding a fond adieu to Caleb Hopkins, the ensemble has welcomed Michael Welch as its new director.

Welch comes with a rich and varied background. Originally from Frenchburg, Kentucky, he is a versatile tenor soloist, conductor, and composer now residing in Jonestown. He has performed diverse roles ranging from opera and musical theatre to featured solos with the Kentucky Bach Choir.

An experienced educator, Welch previously served as an adjunct instructor of choral music at Eastern Kentucky University and currently serves on the voice faculty at Frostburg State University, as well as a staff tenor for Grace & St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Baltimore.

Dedicated to community music education, he is the founder and director of Cadence Music & Arts Programs in Central Pennsylvania. Welch holds both a Bachelor and a Master of Music from Eastern Kentucky University, with emphases in vocal performance, theory/composition, and choral conducting. He resides with his wife, Brittney, and son, Alex.