Joanna Medawar Nachef Singers

The Joanna Medawar Nachef Singers (JMN Singers) is a choral group founded by Dr. Joanna Medawar Nachef, a distinguished conductor and musician. Established with the objective of harnessing the universal language of music, the JMN Singers aim to foster understanding, nurture tolerance, and promote harmony across cultures through their musical performances. The organization's mission is deeply rooted in the belief that music can serve as a powerful tool to dissolve misconceptions and build bridges among diverse communities. Under the leadership of Dr. Nachef, who serves as the Founder, Conductor, and Artistic Director, the JMN Singers perform a wide repertoire that spans various eras and genres, reflecting the group's commitment to musical excellence and artistic diversity. The chorale consists of talented vocalists divided into four sections: Sopranos, Altos, Tenors, and Basses, each bringing their unique voice to create a cohesive and dynamic sound. Dr. Joanna Medawar Nachef, the driving force behind the JMN Singers, is a trailblazer in the field of music, recognized as the first woman conductor from the Middle East. Born in Beirut, Lebanon, she relocated to Los Angeles in 1976 and has since developed a prolific career in choral music. Dr. Nachef is the Director of Choral Activities at El Camino College and holds academic positions at both El Camino College and California State University Dominguez Hills. Her educational background includes a Bachelor in Music in piano performance from CSUDH, as well as a Doctor of Musical Arts and a Master in Music degrees in Choral Music from the University of Southern California. Dr. Nachef's contributions to the musical community extend beyond the JMN Singers. She has served as choir director at Peninsula Community Church and was the Artistic Director for Los Cancioneros Master Chorale for 24 years before retiring in 2015. Additionally, she has been appointed as Artistic Director/Conductor for the Torrance Pops Orchestra and the Joanna & Friends series. Her international presence is marked by conducting debuts and performances at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and the Beirut Chants Festival, as well as collaborations with the Lebanese Philharmonic Orchestra. Her accolades are numerous, including being featured in various editions of Who's Who publications, receiving the 2005 Excellence in Arts Award in Music, the 2010 Living Legend Award, the 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award by the Lebanese Ladies Cultural Society, and many others. Dr. Nachef is also a speaker and Citizen Diplomat for the US State Department and is actively involved in cultural exchange and peace initiatives. The JMN Singers continue to captivate audiences in the USA and internationally, guided by Dr. Nachef's vision and dedication to the transformative power of music. Through their performances, they strive to contribute to a world where cultural differences are celebrated and united through the art of choral singing.