Title: Founder and Director
Company: Cuesta Concord Chorus
Location: San Luis Obispo, California, United States
Cassandra Tarantino, founder and director at Cuesta Concord Chorus, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Artists for dedication, achievements, and leadership in music education.
Ms. Tarantino has dedicated over four decades to the field of music, establishing herself as a prominent figure in choral conducting and music education. As the founder and director of the Cuesta Concord Chorus since 2005, she has cultivated a supportive community where music thrives, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among its members. Her passion for music is evident in her commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every participant feels welcomed and valued. The chorus, which she regards as her most notable achievement, serves as a testament to her dedication and passion for music.
In addition to her role with the Cuesta Concord Chorus, Ms. Tarantino has excelled as the music director at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in San Luis Obispo, California, since 2017. Her expertise in church music enhances worship services and community outreach through music. Furthermore, she teaches private lessons in voice and flute, conducts choirs, and instructs courses in music theory and history at Cuesta College Choral, where she has been active as a vocal and instrumental instructor since 2005.
Ms. Tarantino’s career is also marked by a series of significant roles that highlight her versatility and dedication to the arts. From 2013 to 2018, she co-founded and worked as chorus master for Central Coast Gilbert & Sullivan. During this time, she was recruited as a guest conductor for the Atascadero Community Band from 2014 to 2015. Likewise, she has contributed to the Central Coast Children’s Chorus from 2010 to 2015. Her tenure as chorus master at Opera San Luis Obispo from 2013 to 2014 further underscores her extensive experience in choral leadership.
Ms. Tarantino previously found success as a conductor and music theory teacher for the Santa Barbara Children’s Chorus from 2002 to 2006 as well as an instrumental music consultant for the Santa Barbara School District from 2004 to 2006. Between 1995 and 2001, she was appointed as a junior choir director at All Saints-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church. Ms. Tarantino began her career with a conducting internship at El Montecito Presbyterian Church from 1993 to 1994.
Before embarking upon her professional path, Ms. Tarantino pursued a formal education at Westmont College, earning dual bachelor’s degrees in church music and English literature in 1993 that she cites as profoundly influential to her work over the years. She continued her studies with a Master of Music in performance flute at California State University, Northridge in 1997. She ultimately concluded her academic efforts at San Jose State University in 2018, graduating with a master’s degree in choral conducting. Additionally, Ms. Tarantino’s Level 3 sommelier certification reflects her diverse interests beyond music.
Throughout her career, Ms. Tarantino has been recognized for her contributions to the field of music. She received the Alpha Bravo Zulu Award, a rare honor for a civilian, acknowledging her dedication to honoring veterans through musical performances. Her involvement with civic-minded organizations includes serving as a volunteer board member for the Cuesta Performing Arts Center.
Born in San Diego, Ms. Tarantino enjoys traveling, cooking, eating food, and Irish dancing during her leisure time. Her personal life is enriched by these interests, which complement her professional endeavors and contribute to her well-rounded character as an artist and educator.
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