Biography
Kiki Porter is a choral conductor and vocalist with a Master’s in Choral Conducting from Butler University, where she was honored with the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir Fellowship and studied under Dr. Eric Stark. She also holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Oberlin Conservatory, where she studied with Timothy LeFebvre. Kiki’s musical journey began early as a member of the Metropolitan Opera Children’s Chorus, where she participated in over 250 performances across 16 operas over eight years, laying a foundation for her lifelong passion for music.
Throughout her education and early career, Kiki developed as a versatile vocalist, participating in All-State and All-Eastern choirs, and attending Interlochen Arts Camp, where she later returned as a counselor. Her vocal achievements include being named the Music in the Parks Outstanding Vocalist, Lindeblad School of Music Concerto Competition Winner, and NJ All-State Opera Festival 2nd Place Winner. At Oberlin, Kiki made her opera debut as Peaseblossom in A Midsummer Night's Dream and the First Chambermaid in Menotti’s Amelia al Ballo, while also performing in the Oberlin College Choir and Chamber Singers Ensemble.
In 2020, Kiki traveled to Germany for an immersive language and vocal coaching experience at the Semperoper, performing Lieder at Nikolaikirche in Leipzig. Her commitment to broadening her conducting and musical knowledge led her to attend prestigious programs such as the Atlanta Summer Conducting Institute and the Cincinnati Choral Intensive, where she studied with renowned conductors like Dr. Deanna Joseph, Dr. Joseph Bara, Dr. Joe Miller, and Dr. L. Brett Scott.
During her time at Butler University, Kiki made her professional conducting debut with the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir, conducting works for their Mood Indigo Concert and Festival of Carols performances. She also debuted as an orchestral conductor with the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. Kiki’s international conducting debut came in May 2024, when she conducted the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir during their Brazil tour. As a graduate assistant, she worked closely with the Butler Chorale and conducted the Butler University Choir and Wind Ensemble in their major concerts.
Kiki’s teaching experience includes voice instruction at the Butler Community Arts School and directing choirs in several Indianapolis churches. She served as the interim Choir Director at All Souls Unitarian Church and taught choir sectionals at St. Monica Catholic Church. Additionally, she has performed as a vocalist in various Indianapolis venues, including Christ Church Cathedral and Songbook Academy.
Currently, Kiki is the Director of Worship Arts at Zionsville United Methodist Church, where she directs the Chancel Choir and leads contemporary and traditional music services. She also serves as assistant conductor with the Circle City Orchestra, continuing to share her musical passion with her community.
For more details on Kiki Porter’s educational background, professional experience, and musical achievements, please view her full curriculum vitae: Kiki Porter CV - December 2024.