CSUF University Singers

The University Singers, under the direction of Robert Istad, is comprised of upper class members selected by audition. In recent years, they have become recognized as a premier collegiate vocal ensemble performing for numerous choral conventions including the American Choral Directors Association. The group has performed with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and the Pacific Symphony Orchestra among others, and in February 2003, the choir was selected as one of 42 choral ensembles to perform at the ACDA National Convention in New York presenting concerts at Riverside Church, Carnegie Hall and Avery Fisher Hall. Tours have included performances in Italy, Spain, Germany, Austrailia, and in 2008, Eastern Europe.
Dr. Robert M. Istad conducts the University Singers and CSUF Concert Choir in addition to teaching courses in conducting, advanced interpretation and literature. He has prepared choruses for Esa–Pekka Salonen and the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Carl St.Clair and the Pacific Symphony Orchestra, Sir Andrew Davis and the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Nicholas McGegan and the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra, as well as conductors Bramwell Tovey, Eric Whitacre, Giancarlo Guerrero, Marin Alsop, George Fenton, John Alexander, William Dehning, David Lockington and Mark Manderano. Dr. Istad received his Bachelor of Arts degree in music from Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, his Master of Music degree in choral conducting from California State University, Fullerton and his Doctor of Musical Arts degree in choral music at the University of Southern California. He studied conducting with Dr. William Dehning, John Alexander and Dr. Jon Hurty. Dr. Istad is assistant conductor of the Pacific Chorale, music director at Irvine United Congregational Church, and in demand as an adjudicator and guest clinician.