A New Era of Harmony: Evan Miles Named Artistic Director of Modern Men Coachella Valley Men’s Chorus

A new era is taking center stage for one of the Coachella Valley’s most prominent arts organizations. Modern Men: Coachella Valley Men’s Chorus is officially transitioning leadership, welcoming a new artistic director tasked with honoring a decade of tradition while composing a fresh future for the ensemble.

The announcement marks a pivotal moment for the group, which has spent the last ten years under the guidance of founding artistic director Dr. Stan Hill. Known for its powerful performances and commitment to community advocacy, the chorus has become a staple of the desert’s cultural landscape.

A Legacy of Inclusion

For Dr. Hill, the mission of Modern Men has always extended beyond the music. The chorus serves as a vocal amplifier for diversity across the desert, providing a space where individual stories are woven into a collective harmony.

"I feel like it's a spiritual experience when we hear people singing," Dr. Hill told NBC Palm Springs. "And it's something that is so unique in that only we can do it together. It's not something that any one of us can do by ourselves. And in that way, it's the most beautiful thing there is."

Under Dr. Hill’s leadership, the group grew from a small ensemble into a nationally recognized chorus and the official Ensemble-in-Residence for the historic Palm Springs Plaza Theatre.

The New Artistic Director: Evan Miles

Stepping into the role is Evan Miles, an accomplished director with a proven track record of building community-driven ensembles. Miles arrives with a vision to build upon the foundation laid by his predecessor while expanding the group's reach in new ways.

"I want to continue the legacy that Dr. Stan Hill has already instilled with Modern Men," Miles said. "But I want to also grow it and develop it in new ways."

Dr. Hill describes Miles as the "perfect fit" for the organization, noting that he possesses both the talent and the vision to carry the group forward.

What to Expect This Summer

As the chorus "changes keys," fans can expect the transition to be a collaborative process. While the sound may evolve, the core values of the group remain the same.

• Summer Transition: Miles will officially take the podium this summer to begin preparations for the upcoming season.

• Diverse Repertoire: The group intends to keep its signature focus on music that promotes positive ideals and transcends human differences.

• Community Auditions: With a new director at the helm, the chorus continues to invite new voices from across the valley to join their ranks.

"These guys mean a lot to me," Hill added. "And he's got the talent to carry on, and of course, it's going to grow like you can't believe."

As Evan Miles prepares to lead his first rehearsals, the Coachella Valley is ready to hear the next movement in the Modern Men story.

Explore NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the valley.