Plymouth Church is honored to appoint Eliza Woodyard, M.M. as Choir Director. Eliza Woodyard (they/she) is a multidisciplinary artist who has enjoyed performing in operas, concerts, traditional music venues, recitals, a cappella ensembles, and choruses throughout North America and Europe. Having served as guest conductor for Plymouth's last Easter service, Eliza feels "excited to make music in such an artistically rich, exploratory, liberation-focused environment" on a regular basis. "Plymouth has a powerful musical history in Seattle and I'm thrilled to now be part of its legacy."

In addition to singing regularly with the Seattle Opera Chorus and in Mägi Ensemble, Eliza has sung with Opera Classica Europa, Northwest Opera In Schools, Lowbrow Opera Collective, St. James Cathedral, Epiphany Parish, City Cantabile Choir, and Octava Chamber Orchestra. As a stage director Eliza has directed operas and musicals with Seattle Modern Opera Company, Olympic College, Kitsap Opera, and Lowbrow Opera Collective, where their directing work has been covered by The Seattle Times. For the next chapter of their career, Eliza is "looking forward to discovering, nurturing, and enhancing Plymouth's unique sound."

While leading at Plymouth, Eliza will remain on the vocal faculty at Olympic College, where in addition to directing they teach private lessons, perform recitals, lecture, and conduct Jazzline, the college's resident jazz ensemble. "Eliza Woodyard's invaluable expertise in inclusive pedagogy will ensure every voice is empowered to worship in this sacred place" says Director of Music and Arts Joe Williams. 

We are entering a season of new beginnings. "So far Plymouth's community has been genuine, welcoming, and kind both in and out of the rehearsal room," assesses Woodyard. "I've already had meaningful exchanges with multiple people and look forward to many more!" Choir rehearses on Sundays from 9-10 am in Hildebrand Hall. No prior group singing experience is necessary for participation. Let's hear from you!