Franco Basili

Franco Basili serves as Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choirs at California Lutheran University, where he leads choral ensembles and integrates his Argentine heritage into pedagogical practice. His appointment reflects specialization in vocal and choral disciplines within the university's music program.

Academic preparation includes:

• Doctorate in Musical Arts, University of Houston (mentor: Dr. Betsy Cook Weber)
• Master of Music in Choral Pedagogy, Carthage College (mentors: Rick Bjella, Dr. Eduardo García-Novelli)
• Bachelor’s degrees in Choral Conducting and Piano Pedagogy, Conservatorio de Música “Isaías Orbe” (Tandil, Argentina; mentors: Pablo Banchi, Miguel Ángel Pesce)

Research centers on Choral Music with emphasis on Latin American repertoire and Vocal Pedagogy techniques, exploring intersections between cultural traditions and vocal training methodologies. His work prioritizes practical application through ensemble direction and performer development.

Professional history spans international choral leadership: Artistic Director of National University of Mar del Plata’s Chamber Choir, Director of Laprida’s Children Choir, and Assistant Conductor of Coro Estable de Tandil in Argentina. U.S. roles include rehearsal conductor for Houston Symphony Chorus (2022-2023), Houston Chamber Choir conductor intern (2023-2024), University Chorus Director at University of Houston, and Grace Presbyterian Church Chancel Choir Director in Houston. As a performer, he participated in World Youth Choir sessions (2016, 2018, 2024) and sang with award-winning Carthage Choir and University of Houston Concert Chorale.