About 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 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 1970s 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 Salumonovich 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 InConcert Sierra, and choral director and conductor for Sierra Master Chorale. Additionally, Hardin serves on the advisory board of the Nevada County Composers Cooperative, is 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.
