Dr. Jason Heald, 

Raised in Alaska, Dr. Heald is currently the director of music at Umpqua Community College, holds a Ph.D. in composition from University of Oregon, a Master’s degree from University of Portland, and a Bachelor’s degree from Lewis and Clark College. He is currently conducting the Umpqua Chamber Orchestra, Umpqua Chamber Choir, and the vocal jazz ensemble, the Umpqua Singers.

The Umpqua Singers from Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Oregon, are one of the premiere vocal jazz ensembles in the Pacific Northwest. This 10-member group performs a broad range of musical styles ranging from traditional swing to contemporary R & B. With nine CD’s to their credit, the group performs 45-50 engagements per year. The Umpqua Singers were the featured performers at the Capitol Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in Washington D.C. on December 12, 2002. In addition to frequent radio and television broadcasts, the Umpqua Singers have been featured on FOX, C-SPAN, and XM Satellite Radio.

Heald has composed two musicals, National Insecurity—this critically-acclaimed production tells the story of Ethel and Julius Rosenberg, who were on trial for selling plans for the atomic bomb to the Russians in the early 1950’s. The musical traces the life of the Rosenbergs from their romantic introduction to their public demise as America’s most notorious spies; and State of Jefferson—this light-hearted musical based on the 1941 secession movement of the counties along the Oregon-California border. This is the story of a San Francisco reporter and a small group of ordinary citizens that defy state authorities and challenge political giants of the day to bring economic justice to their region. A tale of rebellion and romance, State of Jefferson holds universal appeal for audiences of all ages.

Dr. Heald also serves as choir director at the First Presbyterian Church in Roseburg, Oregon. Before arriving in Roseburg, Heald taught at Western Oregon University, Linfield College, and Mt. Hood Community College. In addition to being an active conductor and clinician, Heald is a prolific composer, with works published by ChoralWeb, UNC Jazz Press, Plymouth Music, and Call of the Wild Publishing. Recent premiers and commissions include performances by the Olympia Chamber Orchestra, Umpqua Chamber Orchestra, University of Portland Community Orchestra, Soundmoves, and the Tapestry String Quartet.