Three Generations of Ramona Music Directors at Ramona’s Christmas Concert
Three generations of Ramona Music Directors were at the Christmas Concert themed “Music Brings Us Home,” held on Friday, December 2nd at the San Marino Community Church! Shown above are Ms. Ruth Ballenger, current Music Director and concert Conductor (center), Mr. Joe Paguio, and Ms. Desiree LaVertu. These three harmonious educators define the perfect chord. Ramona’s handbell and choral ensembles also presented a heartwarming and festive performances during the concert. Stay “tuned” for more Christmas Concert photos or get updates from Ramona Convet’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RamonaConvent.
Ruth Ballenger is a lifelong musician; both of her parents are also musicians, so she didn’t have much of a choice. An avid reader, she studied literature in college, while also performing in musical ensembles. In addition to her work at Ramona, she has been Alto Section Leader at All Saints Church in Pasadena since 2000. Ms. Ballenger love J.S. Bach and Freddie Mercury, from the band Queen.
Joseph Paguio was Ramona’s Director of Music from 2006-2009, then Cantor of St. Bonaventure Church in Huntington Beach, Director of Music or Cornelia Connelly School, Director of Music at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Tustin, CA. He was Director of Music at Cornelia Connelly School from 2011-2013, Choir Director of “Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church (2016-2021) and presently an Adjudicator at World Drum Major Association, Inc.
Désirée LaVertu is a gifted conductor, soprano soloist, voice teacher, and pianist in the Los Angeles area. She is the Director of Choral & Vocal Activities at Occidental College, where she conducts the Glee Club and College Chorus and teaches voice classes, choral conducting, and voice lessons.
“Ramona Convent Catholic School is a Catholic college-prep high school for girls in grades 9-12. At Ramona, prepare for life! We are a welcoming community where high standards and expectations ensure an extraordinary education for every young woman. When students graduate from Ramona, they face the future with an extraordinary education in their pocket; with a global vision fueled by Catholic, SNJM values; with an independent spirit and confident leadership skills; with Ramona sisters by their side and a legacy of more than 100 years of excellence at their back”.
Ramona Convent Secondary School, 1701 W. Ramona Rd, Alhambra, CA 91803, (626) 282-4151 or visit www.ramonaconvent.org.