Musician

A Man of Many Musical Talents.

Chuck is a passionate singer, pianist, and musical leader with extensive experience in choral, orchestral, and musical theatre. Learn more about his work as a conductor, music director, and soloist below.

Conductor

A team-player approach to choral and orchestral leadership.

Chuck’s 'people over process' philosophy brings a refreshing and human-centered approach to the conductor’s podium. Leading both choral and instrumental groups with compassion, a confident hand, and a steady beat, he rekindles musicians' passion for the art that first drew them to music while guiding them to new heights of excellence. His approach nurtures both music and musicians, always prioritizing the people at the heart of the ensemble.

Chuck’s Master of Music research centers on the aging voice and explores how music can enhance quality of life and delay cognitive decline in older adults. His work provides valuable insights into the intersection of music, health, and longevity, emphasizing the positive impact of singing and musical engagement for aging populations.

Career Highlights

  • Music Director, First Baptist Church, Weaverville, 2023-present

  • Adjunct Faculty & Director of the University Singers (12+ years), UNC Asheville

  • Founder & Director, Reuter Center Singers (20+ years), OLLI at UNC Asheville

  • Music Director & Conductor, Givens Estates Choir (7+ years)

  • Season Conductor, Asheville Choral Society, 2019

  • Season Conductor, Blue Ridge Orchestra, 2015-16

  • Music Director, Conductor & Chorus Master, Asheville Lyric Opera, 2002-04

  • Co-Conducting with Asheville Symphony, Asheville Symphony Chorus, and Asheville Choral Society for the Millennium Concert Chorale Spectacular, April 2000

Music Director: Theater

Over 20 years of experience as a music director for opera and musical theatre.

Chuck Taft answers his phone with a song, and his love for music is woven into every aspect of his life. His enthusiasm is contagious, transforming everyday moments into something straight out of a musical. Whether working with seasoned professionals or elementary school students, Chuck’s expertise in choral and orchestral conducting, coupled with his positive, can-do attitude and talent for fostering collaborative harmony, make him an invaluable and uplifting presence on any production team.

Recent Projects

Career Highlights

  • Conducting Broadway legend Terrence Mann

  • 20+ productions with Haywood Arts Regional Theatre

  • 10+ productions with Asheville Community Theatre

  • 6+ productions with Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre

  • 6+ productions with Asheville Lyric Opera

Partners

Baritone Soloist

With a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Western Carolina University, Chuck brings his rich baritone voice to life as a soloist, captivating audiences with powerful, emotive performances. His formal training has honed his technique, enabling him to excel across a wide range of styles—from classical to contemporary—and deliver each performance with both precision and profound depth.

Career Highlights

  • Carmina Burana, Asheville Choral Society

  • Madame Butterfly, Asheville Lyric Opera

  • The Merry Widow, Mars Hill College

  • Carmina Burana, UNC Asheville

  • Requiem (Mozart), UNC Asheville

  • Te Deum (Dvorak), St Matthias

  • Cantata no. 41 (Bach), St. Matthias

  • St. John's Passion (Bach), Central UMC