J. Paul Dease
Director of Music and Arts
Joseph Paul Dease is a native of Dothan. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Choral/Vocal Music from the University of Montevallo, a Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting with advanced studies in Vocal Pedagogy from East Carolina University, and a Ph.D. in Choral Music Education from the Florida State University College of Music.
Paul has a wealth of conducting experience, ranging from secondary school to church, community, college, and opera choruses. His rehearsal style has been acknowledged by students and colleagues as passionate, enthusiastic, endearing, but above all, positive. His mentors include Clifford Madsen, André Thomas, Kimberly VanWeelden, Kevin Fenton, Judy Bowers, Ronda Fleming, Brad Logan, Katherine Foster, and Gilda Wilkerson.
Paul is an active guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator. He is the Founding Artistic Director and Conductor of the Magic City Choral Society in Birmingham.