Richmond Choral Society

Markus J. Compton began his association with Richmond Choral Society in 2004, serving as our accompanist. Our 2009—2010 season marked his first as Artistic Director.

Holding degrees in Music Education and Piano Accompanying from George Mason University, Mr. Compton is no stranger to the music scene in metropolitan Washington, D.C. and Richmond. Before beginning his tenure with RCS, Markus served as the Assistant Conductor and Pianist for the Fairfax Choral Society, and Pianist for the National Men’s Chorus. He also worked as staff acompanist, vocal coach and lecturer at George Mason University.

Mr. Compton has assisted such distinguished conductors as Anton Armstrong, Thomas Beveridge, Jerry Blackstone, Kevin Fenton, Joseph Martin, Don Neuen, Doreen Rao and Andre Thomas. He has performed at the National Gallery of Art, the White House and in a collaborative recital with Peter Schikele (PDQ Bach).

Currently, Mr. Compton is the Director of Music and pianist at Hebron Presbyterian Church, in Manakin-Sabot, Virginia. He oversees the Sanctuary and Youth choirs, as well as the Music in the Countryside recital series. Mr. Compton also serves on the staff at Collegiate School, where he teaches private piano.

Keith Tan is the Music Minister at Christ Church Episcopal. He has established numerous worship bands, choirs and chamber orchestras, and has produced four albums with Christ Church musicians. As pianist and singer/songwriter, he recorded and produced his debut solo album, Inscribe, in 2003, and performed at numerous churches and concert venues. In 2009, he was commissioned by Richmond Shakespeare to arrange a piece for them and the Richmond Symphony Orchestra.

Keith has been a piano instructor for eleven years, including teaching piano at University of Richmond (1998—2007). He holds a degree in Piano Performance from University of Richmond, and an M.A. in Practical Theology from Regent University.