Our Director

Ken Hardin, pianist/conductor/artistic director, was born in Whittier, CA. He began
piano lessons at the age of 4, and also studied violin, trumpet, accordion and voice. Hardin received
a full scholarship to Whittier College, yet prior to finishing his degree, returned to playing music
professionally in the L.A. metropolitan area.

In Los Angeles, Hardin was highly noted for jazz and Broadway. He was a member of the popular
1970’s jazz group “Big North,” which disbanded just prior to signing their recording contract. Hardin
continued his education, receiving a degree in Voice from CSU Northridge along with extensive
training in choral and instrumental conducting. Hardin studied conducting under composer, conductor,
pianist and arranger Jay Blackton, best known for his work as music director and conductor for
Rodgers and Hammerstein. Hardin also studied conducting and piano stylings with the noted
composer and arranger Johnny Green. While both attending and instructing at Northridge, Hardin
coached many singers who later became successful such as Kurt Hansen (Ms. Saigon and
Mamma Mia on Broadway), Steve Lawrence and Edie Gorme’s son Michael Lawrence, actress
Lee Remick, and pop sensation Leif Garrett among others. He directed, composed, and
accompanied for musicals and played for auditions throughout Los Angeles. He was sought
out as pianist for honor choirs by choral conductors such as Paul Schumonovich and Roger
Wagner. He continued on the faculty at CSU Northridge until moving to Nevada County in 1984
to raise his children.

Ken Hardin spans the genres of jazz, Broadway, and classical with strong, diverse experience and
education in conducting, performing and teaching. He is currently artistic director for Twin Cities
Concert Association, choral director and conductor for Sierra Master Chorale. Additionally, Hardin
serves on the faculty at Sierra College, advisory board of the Nevada County Composers Cooperative,
principal keyboard for the Reno Philharmonic, and is active as a freelance pianist. He adjudicates for
and serves on a variety of ad hoc and board committees and maintains a private studio for piano and
voice students.