(CINCINNATI – May 30, 2024) The board and staff of the Young Professionals Choral Collective (YPCC), a Cincinnati-based organization that connects young professionals through music, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Dr. Matthew Moquin-Lee as its new artistic director, effective July 1, 2024.

Moquin-Lee (he/him) is a versatile conductor and accomplished singer hailing from Mississippi. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Choral Music Education from the University of North Texas’ College of Music, a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ, and a Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. 

With a passion for building organizational structures and fostering community, Moquin-Lee has garnered extensive experience in the arts industry. His training under esteemed choral conductors, including Drs. Joe Miller, Brett Scott, Jerry McCoy, and Richard Sparks, has greatly shaped his conducting expertise.

Moquin-Lee currently serves as worship arts director at First Lutheran Church Cincinnati as well as visiting director of choral activities at Xavier University. 

Beyond his musical endeavors, Moquin-Lee is deeply committed to community work, advocating for marginalized communities and speaking out against societal injustices. Recognized as a visionary conductor and creative artist, he relishes opportunities where his passion for music intersects with social justice causes. Recent partnerships include the Ohio Innocence Project, Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition and Faith Communities Go Green. He lives in Westwood, Cincinnati, with his spouse Tyler and their two dogs, Luther and Benny.

“I am thrilled to step into the role of artistic director for YPCC,” Moquin-Lee said. “This opportunity is a tremendous honor, and I am eager to collaborate with such a dynamic and talented group of singers. YPCC’s commitment to fostering a vibrant community through choral music aligns perfectly with my own passion for creating meaningful musical experiences and connecting people through the power of song and positive change. Together, we will explore a wide-ranging repertoire, innovate with engaging performances, and strengthen our ties to the Cincinnati community. I am excited to bring my vision, energy, and expertise to YPCC and look forward to the incredible musical journey we will embark on together.”

YPCC Board Chair Matt Heston expressed his excitement and confidence in Moquin-Lee’s direction. “The YPCC board and audition committee were thrilled by Matthew’s energy, enthusiasm, conducting skill, and vision for YPCC’s future,” he said. “Matthew has proven himself to be thoughtful, engaging, and exciting. We are looking forward to YPCC’s growth under his leadership.”

(CINCINNATI – January 4 , 2024) – The board and staff of Young Professionals Choral Collective (YPCC) announces the appointment of Cy Wood as the new Executive Director of the organization known as a prominent Cincinnati choral ensemble with a distinguished commitment to diversity and inclusivity.

Following nearly a decade of success as an actor, producer, special events coordinator, and creative director in New York, Wood has spent the last seven years educating students in music and theater at Butler Tech School of the Arts in Hamilton, Ohio.

Wood, an ardent proponent of the thriving arts and music scene in Cincinnati, succeeds Stephanie Renny, Interim Executive Director and a member of the choir since its inception in 2011. “We’re excited to welcome Cy Wood to YPCC,” said Renny. “His passion for music combined with his leadership skills and diverse music production experience will strengthen YPCC’s mission to connect and build a strong community of local singers and music aficionados in Cincinnati.”

Wood began his new position on January 2nd, with YPCC preparing for the annual Spring Concert Hopes & Dreams, a choral performance held at First Lutheran Church on Tuesday, March 12. As Executive Director, Wood will work with YPCC staff and board members to produce YPCC’s four annual hallmark events that include Spring, Fall, Holiday, and Gala concerts along with performances presented by the YPCC Chamber Choir, YPCC Carolers, and YPCC On Call Ensemble. Wood will also work to strengthen partnerships and sponsorships with prominent local organizations.

“To help lead this amazing organization is equally thrilling and humbling for me. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team and artists at YPCC by continuing and growing the tradition of excellence in choral music, fostering creativity, and building meaningful connections within the Cincinnati community,” said Wood. “Music is so important in our lives, and YPCC is a force of musical goodness for anyone who wants to fill their artistic chalice to the brim-- whether they be a performer or audience member. As a life-long advocate of ensemble singing, I am excited to begin this wonderful journey with these young professionals."

Having made his mark on Broadway and in Disney Productions globally, Wood has demonstrated his artistic skills as a professional actor, producer, special events coordinator, and creative director. He is also a respected member, coach, and educator of the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS), and sings baritone in the quartet MixTape. Furthermore, he holds certification as a judge in the Performance Category for the BHS, often collaborating with ensembles on an international level. Wood earned his Bachelors of Fine Arts from Brigham Young University, specializing in music, dance, and theater with an emphasis in music education. During his free time, he appreciates the tranquility of lakeside living with his husband, Dustin, and their two cats, Teddi and Cleo.

About YPCC

Young Professionals Choral Collective is an innovative choral ensemble that combines Cincinnati’s love of singing, socializing, and culture for young professionals ages 21 to 45. YPCC cultivates an inclusive community through the joyful experience of choral music and is composed of over 1,200 singers who create and share high-quality music in an accessible, fun, and social way. YPCC also creates strong connections to local businesses and arts organizations through post-rehearsal outings, unique concert collaborations, and shared resources with stellar Cincinnati arts organizations. YPCC: Young Professionals Choral Collective is supported by the tens of thousands of people who give generously to the ArtsWave Community Campaign, the Ohio Arts Council, The Greater Cincinnati Foundation, and the Cincinnati Opera. YPCC singers have contributed to the Cincinnati arts scene with memorable choral performances and community engagement for more than a decade.