Cassandra Tarantino: A Leader in Community Music Education and Excellence
In a significant recognition, Cassandra Tarantino has been honored as a Pinnacle Professional Member Inner Circle of Excellence by The Inner Circle for her remarkable contributions to music education and community engagement. Based in San Luis Obispo, California, Tarantino has dedicated herself to fostering a love for choral music, building inclusive environments that inspire joy and connection among participants.
As the founder and director of the Cuesta Concord Chorus, established in 2005, Tarantino has created a space that serves as a hub for choral music and community involvement. The chorus has blossomed under her guidance, and its impact is felt across the region as it becomes a source of artistic expression. The community spirit generated through this initiative exemplifies the power of music in uniting individuals and fostering interpersonal connections.
In addition to her role with the Cuesta Concord Chorus, Tarantino also holds the position of Director of Music at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church. There, she leads a sizeable volunteer choir, which is noted for being the largest Episcopal church choir in SLO County. With an impressive ensemble of 20 voices, Tarantino applies her philosophy of creating a nurturing and supportive environment, just as she does at Cuesta Concord. Her inclusive approach has drawn in members from diverse backgrounds, encompassing individuals who may not have previously engaged with an Episcopal church.
Tarantino's dedication is reflected in the welcoming ethos of St. Stephen's, which extends a warm invitation to all: "Whoever you are and wherever you are on your spiritual journey, St. Stephen's welcomes you." Through her leadership, this message is embodied in the church's music program, showcasing how music can serve as a bridge between diverse communities.
Her journey in music began at Westmont College, where she earned dual bachelor's degrees in Church Music and English Literature in 1993. This educational foundation shaped her musical philosophy and teaching methodologies. Additionally, she holds a Master of Music in Performance Flute from California State University, Northridge, obtained in 1997, along with a second Master of Music in Choral Conducting from San Jose State University, completed in 2018. With over three decades of experience, her career spans both performance and mentorship, reflecting her commitment to music education.
Further emphasizing her diverse interests and skills, Tarantino is also a Level 3 certified sommelier, showcasing her appreciation for culture beyond music. Her outstanding contributions to music and community service were notably recognized with the prestigious Alpha Bravo Zulu Award, an honor rarely bestowed upon civilians, acknowledging her efforts to honor military service through the arts.
Outside of her professional commitments, Tarantino enjoys traveling, exploring culinary delights, and engaging in Irish dance, interests that complement her dedication to the arts. Looking forward, she aims to broaden her influence in music education, focusing on cultivating the next generation of musicians and deepening her community outreach initiatives. With her unwavering passion and innovative approach, Cassandra Tarantino exemplifies the essence of leadership in the musical landscape, making a profound difference in the lives of many through her dedication to fostering musical excellence.