Pasadena-Based Los Angeles Children’s Chorus Names Susan Miller Kotses Executive Director

The renowned Los Angeles Children’s Chorus has appointed Susan Miller Kotses as its new Executive Director, effective from February 8, 2024. The announcement was made by LACC Board Chair Dete Meserve, who expressed confidence in Kotses’ ability to guide the organization’s strategic development while ensuring continued innovation and success.

Kotses, a seasoned arts leader and champion for education and community engagement, will work closely with LACC Artistic Director Fernando Malvar-Ruiz. Her role will involve operationalizing Malvar-Ruiz’s ambitious artistic vision, producing the necessary resources, organizational structures, and long-term planning.

The Grammy Award-winning LACC, based in Pasadena, is widely recognized as among the world’s preeminent youth choruses. Kotses’ appointment is expected to help the chorus maintain its position at the forefront of the national choral music field.

Currently serving as Pacific Symphony’s Vice President of Education and Community Engagement, Kotses brings to the table over 25 years of experience as a voice teacher and a professional singer. Her tenure with the Irvine, California-based orchestra saw her build a dedicated, high-performing team.

Malvar-Ruiz welcomed Kotses to the key leadership role, highlighting her enthusiasm and passion for providing access to the arts. 

Kotses herself expressed excitement about partnering with Malvar-Ruiz and the LACC team to build a vibrant future.

“I am thrilled to be partnering with Fernando Malvar-Ruiz to ensure LACC’s artistic and educational vision continues to grow. I also look forward to collaborating with Board Chair Dete Meserve, LACC’s dedicated Board of Directors, and the talented staff as we build a vibrant future together,” Kotses said.

Kotses’ appointment follows a six-month national search conducted by a committee of LACC leadership, facilitated by Syrah Gunning, Executive Search Consultant, and Brett Egan, President, of the DeVos Institute of Arts Management. 

Following Kotses’ assumption of her role in February 2024, LACC will initiate an eight-month strategic planning process led by Egan, the announcement said.