Artistic Director – Elizabeth Helms

As conductor, music director, collaborative pianist, music educator, and church musician, Elizabeth Helms plays an integral part in building and sustaining a strong, vibrant musical community in Ventura County.  She currently works with Gold Coast Concert Chorus, Pacific Shores Philharmonic Foundation, Ventura College Music Department, Church of the Foothills and in her private music studio.  Elizabeth received her Bachelor of Music from the University of Redlands, and Master of Arts from California Lutheran University in 2005.

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The 2023-24 season marks her 23rd year with the Gold Coast Concert Chorus, and 17th as Artistic Director.  As Artistic Director since 2006, she has led the chorus in its continued success, including a journey to Carnegie Hall in New York City.  She was principal accompanist for the GCCC from 2000 to 2005 under the direction of her late husband, Kenneth Helms.

As Principal Collaborative Pianist and Associate Conductor of the Master Chorale of Ventura County, her skills have been given high praise by such choral luminaries as Vance George, Conductor Emeritus of the San Francisco Symphony Chorus; Boris Brott, Music Director Emeritus of the New West Symphony; and Paul Salamunovich, Music Director Emeritus of the Los Angeles Master Chorale.

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Creating challenging learning and performance opportunities in a positive, generous environment, and helping students of all ages to find and nurture their musical voice is the focus of her work with the students of Ventura College, the singers in her choirs, and the many piano and vocal students she has taught.  Ms. Helms’ deep belief in the value of music education and her enthusiasm for the collaborative arts makes her sought after as teacher, accompanist, and conductor.