Carlton Maaia to direct Berkshire Concert Choir

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Berkshire Concert Choir has appointed Carlton Maaia II as artistic director for 2011-12, the choir’s 34th season. 

A classically-oriented composer, pianist and organist, who also spends much of his time playing and writing jazz, Maaia seeks to offer the best from a wide range of musical sources. 

He is very interested in the work of Berkshire-based composers and also in presenting lesser-known or forgotten works by 19th-century composers. Maaia said he is committed to the educational aspect of music and plans to build a student presence into the choir’s long tradition. Beginning in September, he will also be the new director of music at First Church of Christ, Congregational, on East Street.