Zachary Gifford

About

Zachary Gifford is a Music Instructor and Director of Jazz and Choral Ensembles at Shasta College in Redding, California. As of Fall 2024, he joined the music department as the new director of choral and contemporary music, conducting the choral and vocal ensembles at the college. Zachary is a professional musician, educator, and administrator devoted to making peoples lives better through music. He also directs the evening Big Band at Shasta College. During his undergraduate studies, he freelanced in Southern Oregon and participated in his universitys music department, involved with various ensembles as an arranger, composer, and performer. Zachary has experience in both vocal and instrumental music education, and his work includes conducting vocal jazz ensembles and chamber singers. His teaching approach combines traditional choral techniques with contemporary musical styles, helping students develop versatile musicianship skills that prepare them for transfer to CSU/UC music degree programs.

Education & Qualifications

Undergraduate studies in music with focus on arranging, composition, and performance; Formal training in choral conducting and jazz direction

Teaching Styles